How to Properly Lubricate Your Treadmill Belt - A Step-by-Step Guide
Treadmill upkeep can increase its life expectancy by 50%. You’d be surprised how many people aren’t aware of this! Take it from me, when your treadmill belt starts squeaking that’s a big sign that you should wake up! Knowing how to lubricate your treadmill might be your life’s biggest advantage.
You’ll see the symptoms—belt slippage or squeaking. Time to act. Develop and follow a basic guideline to ensure safe use. Get the most out of your machine with these maintenance tips you can easily implement.
Control the belt tension for optimum performance. It’s the equivalent of having a one-on-one personal trainer for your equipment. You’ll be amazed by the difference a little TLC brings. We want to get your treadmill back in action.
Understanding Treadmill Belts
What Is a Treadmill Belt?
The treadmill belt is not only your running surface, it’s the core of your treadmill’s mechanics. Usually it’s made of layers of rubber or PVC, often with a fabric backing that gives it extra strength.
The textured surface of the top layer provides incredible grip that keeps you secure while you exercise. At the same time, the bottom slips through the water, minimizing drag and maximizing speed.
Without this belt, the treadmill is rendered useless as a constant exercise resource. The belt has to coordinate perfectly with the machine’s motor and deck, creating a fluid experience.
A new, well-maintained belt can save you from serious slips and falls and help you enjoy a stable platform for your daily run.
Why Lubrication Is Necessary
We’ve found that lubrication is key to friction reduction between the belt and the deck. The process is easy and do-it-yourself friendly.
Silicone-based lubricants are the most popular type. This easy maintenance step provides smooth belt movement, which means less strain on the motor.
When lubrication is forgotten, friction takes its place and results in damage. This can lead to expensive repair or even a premature death for your treadmill.
By keeping it lubricated, you not only protect the belt but also extend the life of other components and ensure they work efficiently for longer.
Benefits of Regular Lubrication
The rewards of consistent lubrication are significant. Regular lubrication comes with tons of benefits.
It helps to run your treadmill at peak performance, resulting in less downtime and costly repairs. When you maintain the proper level of lubrication, your machine consumes much less energy, too.
That’s what makes your workouts better and more effective! You’re safer using less lubricant more often rather than going heavy on it all at once.
Lubricate every three months or as needed based on use, with some suggesting 25 to 180 hours of use.
It’s worth noting that premium treadmills from companies such as NordicTrack and Precor can feature maintenance-free belts that don’t require the same level of care.
Neglect also isn’t the answer because 1 in 10 users don’t lube frequently enough, resulting in damage that happens early and unexpectedly.
Signs Your Treadmill Needs Lubrication
Checking regularly for signs that your treadmill needs lubrication is essential to ensuring your treadmill continues to operate properly. There are a number of clear indicators that point to when it’s time for this critical maintenance task.
Unusual Noises and Sounds
Treadmills, as many of you may have experienced, come with a unique world of sound. Often, it’s a gentle humming sound or a consistent thumping noise from the movement of the belt. If you begin to notice any squeaking or grinding sounds, you need to listen up.
These sounds typically indicate that the belt is not moving across the deck as easily as it needs to. Just like when your favourite door needs the slightest drop of oil to stop creaking. Early detection of these strange noises can address issues before they become more serious hazards later.
Increased Friction During Use
Friction is the hidden foe for treadmills. When we have too much of it, our workouts are less enjoyable and our genetic machine has to exert greater effort. You may start to see that the belt sticks or chafes more when you are using the treadmill.
This could mean that your workouts are harder than they need to be. Monitoring the rate at which the treadmill belt glides is an important part of this treadmill maintenance task. If you’ve stored your treadmill for a while, the lubricant may have dried out.
Don’t wait until you hear that horrible squeal sound. It’s critical to proactively lubricate it now!
Belt Movement Issues
Other times, you will be able to see or feel the belt actually slipping or stuttering. This can be the result of insufficient lubrication. If the belt is not gliding smoothly, it puts wear and tear on other treadmill components.
This covers even essential parts such as the motor. A simple test by lifting the edges of the belt and feeling underneath will inform you if the belt requires lubrication. If you’re aware of your skin being dry, then you need to start doing something.
If your treadmill is well cared for, it should serve you well for many years. NordicTrack suggests lubricating it every 130 miles or every three months.
How to Lubricate Your Treadmill
Properly maintaining your treadmill is one of the best ways to prolong its life and keep your workouts running smoothly.
Follow these steps to properly lubricate your treadmill.
1. Gather Necessary Tools and Lubricant
Begin with the basics and build from there. First, assemble a clean rag, a small screwdriver, and the type of lubricant your manufacturer recommends.
Usually, this will be a 100% silicone treadmill lubricant. A mini-bottle with at least 30 ml will be needed for one application.
To maximize a product’s performance potential, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations to the letter.
2. Ensure Safety Precautions
Safety is always the number one priority.
Before you start any kind of lubrication, ensure your treadmill is unplugged so it does not accidentally turn on while you work.
Gloves and eye protection can provide additional protection from drips or spills.
3. Access the Treadmill Belt
To do this, you’ll first need to get to the belt and deck. Typically, that means taking off the side covers or panels.
Pay close attention to the removal instructions provided in your user manual to prevent damaging delicate components. This will also make reassembly easier.
4. Clean the Exposed Area
Once exposed, take a clean cloth and wipe off any hair and dust build up from the belt and deck.
A little mild detergent will go a long way to removing any scuffs and other dirt. A good clean allows the lubricant to cling properly.
This is an important part of keeping your treadmill running in tip-top condition.
5. Apply Lubricant Evenly
Work the lubricant into the underside of the belt evenly. Try to land in the sweet spot where your heels first strike the treadmill deck.
By using a spray nozzle, you will make sure that you are getting an even coat. This avoids any accumulation that could lead to sliding or injury.
6. Reassemble and Test Functionality
After you’ve put on the lubricant, make sure to replace any other part you took off.
Plug in the treadmill and then slowly run it at low speed. This allows the mop lubricant to cure properly.
Walking on it helps the lubricant spread evenly. This concluding step is where you make sure all the plugs are back in the wall and things are humming along.
7. Remove Excess Lubricant
Lastly, inspect to see if there is any ingredient lubricant.
Remove excess by buffing with a soft, dry cloth. Leaving excess can lead to dust accumulation and other complications.
A well-lubricated belt should feel mildly slick to the touch. This will keep your treadmill from making too much noise and working too hard.
Choosing the Right Lubricant
Choosing the right treadmill lubricant is important for treadmill maintenance. All you need is a 100-percent silicone lubricant, which is a good choice. This is specially formulated to keep the moving parts of your treadmill running smooth and efficient.
Proper care for your fitness equipment is essential. Choosing the proper lubricant and using it properly protects your investment and keeps your treadmill performing its best. Looking for a track lubricant that is proven and trusted, Fasulo recommends Spot On or Godora Treadmill Lubricant.
These also have an included extenda-nozzle, allowing for convenient and precise applications. Depending on the brand, the method of application may vary. As Fasulo points out, the pattern doesn’t matter.
It’s really just consistency and frequency. It’s half an ounce, perhaps an ounce, if it seems dry on the belt.
Types of Suitable Lubricants
| Lubricant Type | Composition | Application Method | Frequency of Use |
| 100-Percent Silicone | Pure Silicone | Extendable Nozzle | Every 130 miles or 3 months |
| Water-Based Silicone | Silicone & Water | Spray Bottle | Every 130 miles or 3 months |
| Petroleum-Based (Not Recommended) | Petroleum Derivatives | Oil Can or Bottle | Not Recommended |
Water-based silicone lubricants are trending over petroleum-based lubricants. They build less and apply cleaner. Water-based options are more environmentally friendly and are also the most commonly recommended finish for fitness equipment.
Avoiding Unsuitable Products
Avoiding the wrong lubricants is equally key. For example, petroleum-based lubricants can ruin key treadmill parts and result in expensive replacements. These products may look like the solution to all of our problems.
They typically create issues that are far worse. That’s why it’s important to look closely at product labels and make sure you’re selecting a lubricant specifically made for treadmills.
According to Fasulo, the mantra of “lubricate less (volume) more often” holds. Regular maintenance every three months or after 130 miles keeps your treadmill in top condition, extends its life, and saves you from unnecessary headaches.
Some may want pure silicone for its more durable effectiveness.
Conclusion
To ensure that your treadmill stays in its best condition, you should regularly perform maintenance checks and lubricate your treadmill accordingly. Typically, this quick process reduces the wear and tear and helps performance too.
You are now equipped to identify lubrication wear indicators, select an appropriate lubricant, and apply it effectively and efficiently. Routine maintenance helps prevent problems before they start. This ensures you get years of reliable use from your treadmill and saves money on costly repairs.
By taking these precautions, you’ll have more productive workouts and a happier machine. So pick up your treadmill maintenance toolkit, tune up your treadmill, and run your way to success!
If you would like further advice or have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Best wishes for wonderful running.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lubricant for treadmills?
To lubricate a treadmill belt, you should use a 100% silicone lubricant. It’s actually safe and effective for all models. Don’t use petroleum-based products because they will harm the belt and deck.
How often should I lubricate my treadmill?
Depending on your model, you may need to lubricate your treadmill every three months or every 40 hours of use. Consistent lubrication will minimise friction and wear and will increase the life of your treadmill.
How do I know if my treadmill needs lubrication?
Take note of any squeaking and pay attention to resistance while running. Those are serious signs that the belt is long overdue for some semi-annual lubrication or replacement. Routine inspections go a long way to keep them running at peak performance.