How to maintain a treadmill

You've made a commitment to treat yourself well and keep yourself in shape, and one of the ways you do this is with your treadmill. But if you're not treating the treadmill well, it may not be able to keep up with the pace you've set for yourself. Just like a regular exercise routine works for keeping you at your best, a regular maintenance routine for your treadmill is the best way to keep it working at its peak performance level.

Before each use check for loose, damaged or worn parts. Don’t use the treadmill if any damage or worn parts exist–replace the part instead. Doing so not only will extend the life of your treadmill; it can protect you from getting hurt.

After each use, wipe down the treadmill with a clean, damp cloth to remove sweat and dirt. Avoid excessive moisture around and on the console. Cleaning the treadmill after each use will help keep dirt and bacteria from building up on the machine.

Once a week check the rollers for smooth operation. Sweep or vacuum under and around the treadmill to prevent dirt and dust from entering the machine at the base, the belt and around the platform. Thoroughly clean the machine with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dirt or dust.

Once a month, check the screws and bolts and tighten if needed. Look at the belt’s alignment and tension. If you see any problems, follow the instructions in your owner's manual for aligning and tensioning the belt.

Once every three months or after every 25 hours of use, lubricate the walking belt with a silicone-based lubricant. Even if you don't use the treadmill frequently, it's important to keep the belt from drying out. Check your owner's manual for detailed instructions.

For more ways to keep your treadmill performing at its best, check out our treadmill DIY repair help section.