While high-end treadmills require little to now maintenance, cheaper treadmills require occasional lubrication in order to keep running smoothly. Even if your tread belt appears to be operating well, rubbing in a little lube can prevent future issues. Here are some frequently asked questions we receive about about treadmill lubrication.
1. Why do treadmills require lubricant?
Here are just a few of the reasons why lubing up your treadmill should be part of your gym maintenance routine.
- Treadmill lubricant reduces friction between the tread belt and the motor, significantly extending track life.
- Treadmill lubricant helps prepare the machine for storage. Without it, the belt could become brittle and break the machine is restarted.
- Preventing a tread belt breakdown is always cheaper than buying a new belt.
2. How frequently should I lubricate my treadmill?
Manufacturers of low-cost treadmills generally recommend lubricating the machines every three months or every 40 hours of use. More frequent lubrication may be needed in warm environments because the oil is likely to evaporate faster.
3. What kind of lubricant should I use?
If your treadmill requires lubrication, then details about which type of lubricant to purchase and how to apply it are most likely found in the owner’s manual. Note that petroleum-based products like WD-40 are not appropriate and will ruin a treadmill! Most treadmill lubricants are 100% silicone or at least silicone-based.
4. How is treadmill lubricant applied?
Application methods vary from model to model. However, owners are generally advised to apply a thick strip of lubricant to a section of the belt. This is most easily accomplished with spray-on treadmill lubricants. Then run the treadmill for about five minutes to evenly distribute the lubricant.
The belt is the most important part of your treadmill. A little of time spent lubricating the belt can pay off with years of trouble-free treadmill use.
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