Gyms can be expensive. The membership fees for even the cheapest gyms come with large membership start up costs that can put a serious dent in your pocket. Most people with memberships don’t go because of the transit time or other commitments. In any case, most that do go only use a few pieces of equipment.
Home gym equipment is one of the best personal investments you can make. From treadmills to free weights, they make the commitment to better health easier. However, there is a catch. Most don’t take care of their home gym equipment.
This can lead to treadmills breaking down or becoming hazardous. Treadmill maintenance is as important as the exercise you use it for. How to lubricate a treadmill or what to use to lubricate a treadmill can make a big difference. A treadmill motor belt is built to withstand force and friction, but without slight maintenance won’t last long.
The Most Important Treadmill Maintenance Tips
1. Check Each Part Regularly
2. You May or May Not Necessarily Need A Specialist To Repair It
3. Treadmill Oil Can Go A Long Way
4. Be Sure To Properly Clean It After Each Workout
5. Dust And Moisture Can Still Accumulate
Checking Each Part Regularly
Treadmills work the same essentially as tires. They have a rotation device in the front and back that keep it on track. The treadmill belt, the motors, handles and buttons each work together to form a system that is controlled.
If one part begins to malfunction, it has an impact on the entire machine. At least once a week to a few times a month, thoroughly inspect each part. Turn it on and let it run without being on it to see how smoothly the belt flows and responds.
One of the most common problems is variant speeds when you are using it. If you bought it new, it comes with a direction guide for what the proper settings are. While still off of the treadmill, let it run once the factory settings have been set. Check for any skips or stutters in the belt. If there are either, it can either be a wiring issue or a problem with the belt itself.
Another common cause of problems with treadmills can come from the belt being too tight or too loose. This can be caused by the track not being oriented properly. It can lead to fires due to the friction, damage to the motor, and other circuitry backlash.
You May Or May Not Necessarily Need A Specialist To Repair It
Treadmill repair can range from extremely cheap to very expensive. On the low end of problems can be circuit shortages and belt replacement. On the high end, the most expensive repair is motor replacement/adjustment.
Most people wonder who fixes treadmills or how to service a treadmill. You have the option to either find a specialist to take the treadmill to or have them pay you a home visit. Most treadmill repairs are fairly simple to make with a basic tool kit. Treadmill repair cost, when done by a specialist, usually includes an inspection which can help prevent further issues.
Repairs vary based on the age of your treadmill and what kind of shape it is in. It also depends on whether you will be taking it to to the treadmill repair service or they will be coming to you. It all depends on the severity of the issue.
One of the few situations where you should definitely call a specialist is when the treadmill friction causes electrical issues. A full inspection can at the least alert you to any potential fire starting problems.
Treadmill Oil Can Go A Long Way
Most people have never heard of treadmill oil. It’s the perfect lubricator for preventing cracking in the treadmill belt. It is usually used to also prevent damaged caused by friction build up which can lead to further function problems.
Treadmill oil is inexpensive. It can be applied either using a spritz bottle or directly applied using a gloved hand. Most manufacturers recommend using treadmill oil that is silicone based annually.
Another benefit is the dust particles and sweat oil can catch. When you keep your treadmill well oiled, it’s easier to clean and maintain. The answer to how to oil a treadmill is simple.
1. Apply it to a high fiber cloth and wipe the surface of the treadmill belt while it runs slowly.
2. Let it run until the oil has been thoroughly covered but isn’t saturated.
3. Remove the excess oil with the same or a separate cloth.
4. The goal is to make the surface smooth but not too oily. If it is too oily it can become slick and dangerous to run on.
Be Sure To Properly Clean It After Each Workout
The most overlooked habit in both home and professional gyms by exercisers is cleanliness. Most don’t know how to clean a treadmill walking belt.
All of the excess sweat from a hard workout is an after thought. When you are dripping from a mile jog the runner’s high can make cleaning a chore. You don’t have to thoroughly clean it for thirty minutes after every run.
Giving the treadmill a simple wipe down of the panel and the walking belt using a wet cloth and water spritz bottle makes it easy and fast.
Dust And Moisture Can Still Accumulate
Long term damage of a treadmill comes down to two reasons. The first, is moisture and dust. The other is friction and faulty wiring. The first is easy to handle. Both on top of and underneath the walking belt, dust and moisture sometimes accumulates in those hard to reach places.
Every once in awhile, slide a dry rag under the belt itself into the cracks so you can clear it up. Built up moisture and dust can lead to electric problems. It can also dry and become a slightly mud like inhibitor.
Remember, checking each part regularly yourself is one of the easiest forms of maintenance. Issues won’t compound as long as you stay on top of problems with your treadmill while its simple. Keeping the electric paneling clear of sweat and other moisture and dust will cut down on wear and tear overtime.