It is essential to keep your treadmill in good working order in order to get the most out of it. Each time you use your treadmill, pay attention to its performance. It is possible to maintain a regular and uninterrupted exercise regimen by executing the following tasks frequently. If something is rubbing or scratching on the machine, stop using it until you figure out what’s wrong.
How to Care and Maintain Your Treadmill
Lubricate
The owner’s manual for your treadmill should provide detailed instructions from the manufacturer on how to perform this task. An underside of the treadmill belt with silicone or paraffin-based lubricant is usually applied, especially where your feet make direct contact with the treadmill’s running surface. Make sure you don’t put it on the belt’s walking surface.
Lubrication may necessitate loosening the belt and then retightening it thereafter.
1 Thompson advises doing this at least once a year. Your treadmill may need to be lubricated more frequently depending on how often you use it, how much you use it, and what kind of lubricant you use. Lubricating it every three months is recommended by certain experts. According to Thompson, treadmill belts can be swiftly destroyed by applying WD-40 as a lubricant.
Vacuum
The area around and underneath the machine should be vacuumed at least once a week, if not more often. If you use your treadmill on a daily basis, you’ll notice that dust and other material are building up near the back of the machine. While the walking belt contributes a modest amount, your shoes’ soles account for the vast bulk.
At least once a year, you should vacuum the inside of the machine as well. Be cautious to turn off and unplug the machine before removing the motor cover to clean out the motor compartment. Don’t let your vacuum nozzle come into contact with any of the fragile electrical components.
Cleanse
Every time you use your machine, you should wipe it down. If you’re used to working up a sweat, this step is even more crucial. The machine’s metal parts will begin to corrode and bacteria and fungi will flourish as a result of the buildup of moisture. While a moist cloth usually does the trick, a home treadmill cleaning kit can be worth the investment.
Set Your Treadmill On A Level Surface
The simplest and most obvious technique to keep your treadmill in good working order is to do as follows. A flat surface is necessary for the treadmill belt to move equally across the deck….
The belt on your treadmill will wear down more quickly if it is positioned on an uneven surface. It’s also possible that the belt won’t run straight down the centre of the deck, but instead will slide to one side or another.
Adjustable levelling feet on the bottom of the deck should allow you to level the treadmill even if you plan on storing it in a garage or attic with an uneven surface.
Wipe Down Machine (After Each Use)
You’d be astonished at how many individuals I’ve seen in the gym use a treadmill and then immediately hop off without cleaning it down. This may seem like common sense. This is not only unsightly for the next user, but it can also cause the frame and belt to corrode prematurely.
I won’t hold it against you if this brings back memories of times when you neglected to clean up after yourself at the gym down the street.
The treadmill is now yours to keep clean and survive as long as possible, so start wiping down the parts that get sweaty after every workout.
Weekly cleaning of the console is also recommended. There is no need to use any expensive detergents, simply a moist cloth.
Clean Under Belt (Monthly)
The space between the belt and deck should also be cleaned. As a matter of fact, this is perhaps the treadmill’s most vulnerable portion.
Dust and dirt can accumulate under the belt with time. As a result, the belt may break down more quickly.
To clear the path, use a moist cloth or a vacuum attachment.
Keep the area surrounding and underneath your treadmill spotless as well. While you’re cleaning under your belt, you might as well go ahead and vacuum the floor around it.
Tighten Belt (As Needed)
With regular use, the belt on most treadmills will begin to loosen even if the tension has already been set.
It’s all part of the treadmill routine. The deck’s stress will be reduced when the belt expands. As the belt moves on the deck, you’ll be able to tell since it will feel as if you’re slipping about too much while using the treadmill.
The belt tension is typically adjusted by tightening two bolts at the end of the treadmill deck. To get the most out of your device, refer to the instruction manual.
Replace Belt (As Needed)
Even if you take care of your treadmill by cleaning and lubricating it regularly, you will ultimately need to replace the belt. You might be able to do this yourself if you’re handy and have a good eye for detail.
Pay a professional if you are unsure.
When purchasing a treadmill, keep in mind that its belt should be warranted for at least the first few years.
You may spend up to $200 on a new belt if you don’t. If your treadmill’s motor and deck are still in good shape, it may be more cost-effective to replace the belt rather than buy a new machine.
Use A Treadmill Mat
This isn’t critical, but I like even numbers, so here we go.. You may help protect your floor by putting your treadmill on a mat. Vacuuming under your treadmill may be reduced as a result.
It also gives your machine a completed appearance, I believe. Keeping it classy is always important.
Final Thoughts
It doesn’t matter if you’ve just purchased your first treadmill or you’re attempting to keep your five-year-old treadmill in good working order. Having a strategy in place for regular maintenance is essential.
These ten pointers will get you off to a good start. To avoid any confusion, always refer to your user’s manual if you have any questions.
Maintaining your belt, in particular, can be a challenge.