Is Your Home Treadmill Acting Up? Here’s How to Maintain It Properly!

Many of my friends have home treadmills, making it convenient to exercise at home. Recently, a friend asked why their treadmill, after about six months of use, seemed harder to use, with a less smooth belt and increased noise. I asked, "When was the last time you maintained your treadmill?" My friend looked puzzled: "Treadmills need maintenance?"

A young woman in a blue sports bra and black shorts is exercising on a treadmill in a gym. Her hair is tied in a ponytail, and she wears a smile indicating a good mood. Other people can be seen using fitness equipment in the background, including a person wearing a yellow shirt.

If you’re facing the same issues, this article will clarify everything!

Why Maintain Your Treadmill?

Regular use can cause dirt and dust to accumulate around the treadmill belt. Without regular cleaning, these can build up underneath the belt, affecting performance. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your treadmill but also improves its efficiency.

How to Maintain Your Treadmill

Pay attention to the usage environment, regular cleaning, lubrication, belt alignment, and tension adjustments.

1. Pay Attention to the Usage Environment

Ideally, use your treadmill indoors. If placed on a balcony, protect it from rain, sunlight, and moisture. The area should be clean and level, preferably with a treadmill mat. Avoid using the treadmill in dusty environments or where the power supply is unstable and lacks grounding.

2. Pre-Use Checks

Before each use, check the belt for looseness, listen for unusual noises, and inspect the power cord for damage. Start the treadmill by standing on the side rails, then step onto the belt once it starts moving. Always turn off and unplug the treadmill when not in use.

3. Keep It Clean

Dust your treadmill weekly. Use soap and a cleaning cloth to wipe the belt and exposed parts, avoiding liquids on electronic components. Ensure your workout shoes are clean, and wipe down the handles and belt after each use.

4. Lubricate the Belt Regularly

Lubrication reduces friction between the belt and the deck, extending the treadmill’s lifespan. Lift the belt and apply 5-8ml of lubricant to the center of the deck when the treadmill is off.

Light Users (under 3 hours/week): Lubricate every 6 months
Moderate Users (3-5 hours/week): Lubricate every 3 months
Heavy Users (over 5 hours/week): Lubricate every 2 months

5. Check the Belt Alignment

Proper belt alignment is crucial. Uneven foot pressure can cause the belt to shift. If you notice the belt rubbing against the edges, adjust it according to the treadmill’s manual.

6. Adjust the Belt Tension

A loose belt can cause slipping, while an overly tight belt increases friction and reduces motor efficiency. The ideal tension allows you to lift the belt edge 5-7cm from the deck.

Two individuals exercising on treadmills inside a gym. They are wearing black and pink sneakers on their feet, stepping on the running surface of the black treadmills. The treadmills feature silver handrails and safety clips. In the background, other fitness equipment and windows can be seen, allowing light to filter in from the outside.

Friends, have you understood the importance of treadmill maintenance? Check your treadmill today to see if it needs some TLC!