Lubricating a treadmill: how do you do it?
Prevent wear and tear 🧴
Lubricating your treadmill: how do you do it?
A treadmill is a great investment in your health depending on your goals, whether you're training to get fitter, lose weight, or simply move a bit more in your daily life. But just like with any fitness device: good maintenance is essential to enjoy it for as long as possible. One of the most important maintenance tasks is lubricating your treadmill.
In this comprehensive blog we explain to you exactly:
#1 Why lubricating your treadmill is so important
#2 How often you should do this
#3 How to approach it safely and correctly
#4 Which oil you should use
#5 What you especially should not do
Why should you lubricate a treadmill?
While using your treadmill, the belt has to endure a lot of resistance. Due to the constant friction, in the long term this can cause: More resistance, Faster wear of the motor and components, Higher energy consumption and Louder noise (squeaking, scraping). With the help of the instructions in this blog you can prevent this and enjoy your treadmill for as long as possible.
By lubricating your treadmill according to the instructions with silicone oil or a special lubricant, you reduce this friction. The belt glides more smoothly over the deck, which ensures:
🔇 Quieter operation
⚙️ Less strain on the motor
🛠️ Less wear on components
⏳ A longer lifespan for your treadmill
How often should you lubricate a treadmill?
How often you should lubricate depends on how intensively you use the treadmill. Below you'll find an overview of when maintenance should be carried out:
| Use per week | Lubrication frequency |
|---|---|
| Less than 3 hours | Every 5 months |
| 4 to 7 hours | Every 2 months |
| More than 7 hours | Every month |
❗Please note:
This is a guideline. It is always wise to check for yourself whether the belt is actually dry before you start lubricating.
How do you check whether lubrication is needed?
Before you start lubricating, it's important to first check whether the treadmill is really dry. Using too much oil can in fact also work against you.
How do you check this?
- First turn the treadmill off and unplug it.
- Next, lift the belt slightly on one side (you don't need any tools for this).
- Slide your hand under the belt and feel the underside of the running surface.
- Is the surface very dry? Then it's time to lubricate.
- Does it feel moist or greasy? Then you can postpone lubricating for a while.
Which oil or lubricant do you use?
Always use silicone oil or a special lubricant that is suitable for fitness equipment. Other types of oil (such as WD-40, penetrating oil, or vegetable oil) can damage the belt and the deck.
Our treadmills come with lubricating oil that is suitable for your treadmill. If you don't have lubricating oil, feel free to contact us about a solution.
📋 Step-by-step plan:
How to lubricate your treadmill safely and effectively
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Turn the treadmill off and unplug it.
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First lift the treadmill belt slightly on one side.
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Apply about 5 ml of silicone oil.
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Repeat this process on the other side.
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After lubricating, turn the treadmill on for about 5 minutes. This way the oil spreads well over the entire surface.
❗Important:
Do not use more than 10 ml per lubrication session (about 5 ml per side). Too much oil can cause damage!
Not sure whether you're doing it right?
In our handy instructional video we show you step by step how to lubricate your treadmill safely. This video is suitable for all our models. See the video below.
🚫 What you should not do;
❌ Unscrewing the belt
You can damage the tension this way or cause incorrect adjustments
❌ Using too much oil
This can cause leakage and damage your floor
❌ Using the wrong lubricants
Only silicone oil is suitable
Conclusion:
Maintain your treadmill the right way
Lubricating your treadmill takes little effort, but delivers a lot of benefit. You prevent damage, extend the lifespan, and ensure a pleasant, quiet workout. Whether you train every day or only occasionally, a well-lubricated treadmill always works better.
Still looking for a good treadmill for home? Take a look at our range on the website with models for every type of athlete. And if you're looking for a walking pad or a running treadmill Sportconic has it all!