How to Care for a Treadmill
Despite the fact that not many treadmill owners do it, maintenance every now and then is necessary for its optimal performance. So, how to care for a treadmill? Although not many people know how to maintain a treadmill, this process is not too difficult. The truth is that there are three simple routines to follow to learn how to care for a treadmill. Moreover, as some NordicTrack treadmills fold up the maintenance will be even less difficult. Continue reading to keep your treadmill working properly for a long time!
Clean Under Your Motor Cover
Commonly, motor covers get clogged up with hair, dust, and debris. Keep in mind that your equipment needs maintenance just as much as your car needs an oil change. Therefore, if you miss this step, the average life of your treadmill will be reduced.
In order to do some motor cover maintenance, you will need to take out a few screws and dust or even vacuum everything under the motor cover. Restrain from using a liquid treadmill cleaner, as it could short circuit your machine. Also, be careful with the motor and circuit boards while cleaning your treadmill to avoid damaging them. It is recommended to follow this step every few months, but if you have pets that shed, do it more often.
Lube the Treadmill Belt
Some home-gym equipment needs periodical maintenance, and your treadmill is not the exception. To make sure that it keeps moving smoothly when you are using your machine, it is necessary to lubricate your treadmill belt. Keep in mind that the lube you choose must be 100% silicon, as other additives could eat away the belt of most treadmills. Thus, you also need to check the components of any treadmill belt cleaner in advance. If possible, check the owner’s manuals of your gym equipment.
So, how to lube a treadmill belt? There are two ways to do it:
Method 1:
1. Get a treadmill lubricating stick with a handle and a sponge pad at its end.
2. Lift the belt up on one end and stick the want underneath it with its padded side facing down.
3. Lubricate way down the deck and repeat on the other side.
Method 2:
1. Get a spray bottle to apply the silicone.
2. Apply the silicon directly from the spray bottle.
3. Use a sponge to spread the silicon underneath the walking belt for more efficiency.
Center the Belt
Another important step on how to care for a treadmill is to center your treadmill belt. After some use, the treadmill belt will migrate naturally, so all treadmill belts will eventually need realignment. All treadmills have some holes with an Allen bolt head towards the end of the deck. Get an Allen wrench and tinker with it to manipulate the back roller that keeps your treadmill belt in place. Adjust the belt with small movements by turning the bolt little by little. When you are done, make sure there is space on both sides of the belt.