Treadmill service is the process of repairing, adjusting or replacing the mechanical components of your treadmill. Keeping up with this preventative maintenance is the best way to keep your treadmill running well and discover any issues before they become serious. Treadmills have a lot more moving parts than most other pieces of fitness equipment and need much more regular service.

Basic treadmill maintenance includes cleaning the machine and lubricating it. A clean and lubricated deck and belt will prevent friction between them, which can lead to overheating, the motor burning out, or damage to the belt. It’s a good idea to lubricate the belt and deck every 3 months, but if your treadmill is used frequently, it may need this procedure performed more often.

The Importance of Regular Treadmill Service: Keeping Your Equipment in Top Condition

In addition, you should inspect the frame regularly to make sure it’s not warped or damaged. A badly warped frame will cause the belt to rub on the side and wear it down much faster than it should. Also, the rollers should be inspected to make sure they spin freely; bad roller bearings can cause them to bind and require replacement.

Another important maintenance task is to wipe down the surface areas of the treadmill, including around the deck and belt area, with a disinfecting cleaner, which will kill germs and prevent sweat buildup. This is especially important if you share your treadmill with others. Finally, it’s a good idea to create and maintain a maintenance log for your treadmill that will let you know when each of the above procedures is due.