Are you noticing any weird noises coming from the treadmill belt? Or do you find a decrease in treadmill performance with each step over time? Experiencing these issues tells us that your machine requires lubrication. If you want to keep your treadmill in optimum condition, regular lubrication is what you need to consider seriously.
Lubrication has multiple benefits, like efficient performance and increased lifespan of your machine while saving money in the long run and better exercise. In contrast, leaving the belt unlubricated leads to problems like friction, pressurized motor, premature degradation, and high energy consumption. Having said that, you must know how to lubricate a treadmill and its belt.
Here is a comprehensive guide about treadmill lubrication. So, keep reading for all the nitty gritty.
Benefits Of Lubricating The Treadmill
Lubricating a treadmill seems unnecessary, but this single habit can save you from many problems. These are some significant benefits of lubricating the treadmill regularly.
1. Increase the Lifespan
This is a fact that with regular maintenance, you can increase the lifespan of every piece of machinery. Similarly, with the help of regular lubrication of the treadmill belt, you can extend the lifespan of a treadmill to 12 years. Also, it saves you couple hundred dollars for belt replacement.
2. Prevents Noise
Lubrication is the best option to reduce treadmill noise. Generally, a treadmill creates some noise, but no oiling causes a squeaky sound due to rubber friction. If you hear any strange sound, only lubrication can resolve the problem. Also, every time you lubricate the treadmill, you save a lot of money because on-time lubrication reduces damage.
3. Ensure Smooth Exercise
Friction can be the biggest disturbance while using a treadmill. It not only affects your mood, but high friction can damage the belt. If you notice sudden belt movement and extra friction, it’s time to lubricate the treadmill. With regular lubrication, you will experience smooth exercise every day.
4. Prevents Wear on Other Parts
Moving an unlubricated belt casts pressure on the treadmill motor, which is unhealthy for it. Also, the engine uses extra power that needs additional electricity. If you leave the motor under this pressure for longer, you will end up with a burned motor. Therefore, regular lubrication saves other parts from wearing out by reducing stress.
What Lubricant To Use On A Treadmill?
Before getting directly into the lubrication of a treadmill, make sure you are using the right product. Instead of picking general lubricants, look for lubricants explicitly designed for treadmills, like silicone oil for treadmill. These products include ingredients that work ideally to improve the lifespan of the treadmill.
Before going for a universal lubricant, make sure to check the treadmill manufacturer’s guide because they often suggest the best working lubricants for their machine. Not only this, they also advise on which harmful oils you must avoid. For example, if you have NordicTrack and you want to know how to lubricate the NordicTrack treadmill and a suitable lubricant, check the manufacturer’s guide.
However, if the manufacturer’s guide doesn’t mention any particular lubricant, you can use general treadmill lubricants. There are many best treadmill lubricants available in the market that work with all brands.
So, if you wonder, what can I use to lubricate my treadmill belt? These are some recommended lubricant types suitable for treadmills.
- 100% silicone-based lubricants work perfectly for treadmills. You can get it into two forms, i.e., silicon liquid and silicone spray for treadmill. The silicon spray is an easy-to-use option and comes in a spray can. In contrast, the liquid silicone has a different consistency, yet it comes in a can with a nozzle for convenient application.
- Treadmill wax is another suitable product for treadmill lubrication. It also comes in two types, i.e., wax bars and powdered wax. Dealing with treadmill wax requires loosening the back of the roller and applying it between the walking belt and the deck. Wax bars follow the same process; however, you must warm up the treadmill for 15 minutes as a first step.
What You Shouldn’t Use To Lubricate A Treadmill
While looking for the best lubricants for your treadmill, you will come across some options you should never choose. These products include WD40, petroleum-based oils, and vaseline. Instead of improving the performance, they damage the belt and deteriorate the parts.
The Best Treadmill Lubricants
1. Horizon Fitness Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant
If you are looking for an affordable yet quality lubricant, check Horizon Fitness Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant. The main highlight of this product is its side measurements that allow you to control the lube amount. Also, it has a fully sealed cap to avoid any leakage. To use this product, you have to cut the tip, which will work as a nozzle. Its seal cap design prevents any lubricant loss before use.
Pros
- 100% silicone lubricant for treadmill
- Comes with a nozzle for precise applications
- Leak-resistant design
- Squeezable tube
Cons
- Extra small in size
2. Impresa 2 Pack of Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant / Lube – Easy to Apply Lubrication
Are you looking for a treadmill lubricant because there is no manufacturer recommendation in the guide? No worries, Impresa Silicone treadmill belt lubricant is the right choice because it works perfectly for all treadmills. It comes with a twisted cap to provide reasonable control over the product. Also, this design makes the lubrication process convenient.
Pros
- Odorless
- Precision twist-top for easy application
- Work for all treadmill brands
Cons
- Not leakage prof.
3. Spot On 100% Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant
Choose Spot On Treadmill silicone if you want a 100% clean lubrication process. It has a unique bottle and cap design to ensure good control and prevent the loss of a single drop. Also, it has a non-petroleum and odorless formulation, which makes it safe for you and your treadmill.
Pros
- The bottle squeezes easily
- Odorless and non-toxic
- Comes with two dispensing options
- Precise application
Cons
- Stain the belt
How To Put Lubricant On A Treadmill: Step-By-Step Guide
Required Material
- Spray bottle
- Hand wipes
- A rag/ towel
- A screwdriver
Step 1: Unplug The Treadmill
Before getting into the treadmill lubrication, unplug it first to ensure safety. This is a vital step to remove the chances of the treadmill starting up during the lubrication process.
Step 2: Lay Down The Towels
Lubricants often have a liquidy texture; even with extra care, you can get it on the floor. To avoid this mess, put a towel under the edges so it can soak grease immediately. This way, you can keep your floor clean because grease stains are tough to remove.
Step 3: Expose The Treadmill Deck
You are done with safety measures; it’s time to start the lubrication process. For this, you have to open the lower section of the treadmill. Firstly, loosen the rollers with the help of a screwdriver. Next, lift the edges of the belt for better access and control. If you can see the treadmill deck, you are ready to move on to the next step.
Step 4: Apply Lubricant To The Treadmill Deck
Apply the lubricant to the treadmill deck. Can I use silicone spray on my treadmill? If you want to make this process easy, try silicone spray. While dealing with silicone spray, you only have to spray the product over the belt evenly. After application, clean the belt and surrounding parts because the treadmill oil causes a slippery effect that can lead to a mishap.
Step 5: Move The Running Belt
After lubricating the deck, now apply it to the running belt. However, here you have to spray a thin layer because excess lubrication can make it slippery, which is unsafe. Next, move the belt to ensure that every part gets equal lubrication.
Step 6: Wipe Out Excess Treadmill Lubricant
How much lubricant to use on a treadmill? The perfect amount to lubricate the treadmill with silicone gel is 1 to 1.5 oz. However, newbies often apply more product to unwanted places. If this is the case, you must wipe out extra oil precisely after lubricating the treadmill belt.
Step 7: Tighten The Running Belt
Lubrication is complete, and it’s time to tighten the loose parts. Place the belt in its original place and tighten all screws. To check the security, leave the deck; if you cannot lift it more than 1 to 2 inches, you are good to go.
Step 8: Test The Treadmill
Lastly, to confirm the success of the lubrication procedure, plug it back and turn it on. Set it on low speed for a few minutes to let the treadmill grease spread evenly. It is essential to start it at a low speed after lubrication; otherwise, the belt will splash out the lubricant. After 3 minutes, walk on the belt to analyze improvement.
How To Tell If The Treadmill Needs Lubrication?
If you use a treadmill regularly, lubrication after every three months is compulsory for better performance. However, if you are not a regular user, lubricate the treadmill belt after 40 hours of use.
Moreover, how you use the treadmill determines how often to lubricate the treadmill belt. The treadmill used for walking requires frequent lubrication compared to the one used for running. The reason is utility time, as running treadmills work less than walking ones.
Simply put, how often you use a treadmill tells the lubrication time. However, if you want to free yourself from the hassle of determining the lubrication need on your own or if you forget easily. In that case, there are many modern treadmill options in the market with lubrication indicators to tell you that it’s time for their oiling.
FAQs
What happens if you don’t lubricate a treadmill?
The results of neglecting lubrication of the treadmill can cost you so high. This single mistake burdens the motor, causing extra friction between the belt and deck, delamination of the board, using excess power, and so on. If you want to avoid these issues, remember to lube your treadmill on time.
Can a treadmill be over-lubricated?
Yes, newbies often apply extra grease because of no experience. Using extra oil will ruin the surrounding space because the belt will splash the oil everywhere when you turn it on. To avoid this problem, start with a small quantity and add more later.
Can I use vaseline for treadmill lube?
No, you should never go with vaseline when it comes to lubricating the treadmill. It is a non-approved lubricant for treadmills and can ruin the belt completely. If you want the best lubricant, try the manufacturer’s recommended one or the general treadmill lubricants.
What happens if you put too much lubricant on a treadmill?
Application of too much lubricant on a treadmill causes leakage. It makes the lubrication process messy and causes tough stains on the floor. Also, oil splashes ruin the surrounding things, like curtains, furniture, etc., after you turn on the treadmill. Make sure to apply the lube with reasonable control to avoid this problem.
Can I use WD-40 silicone on my treadmill?
Yes, you can use WD-40 silicone on your treadmill as one of the best treadmill lubricant alternatives. However, for better results, choose the manufacturer’s recommended lubricant. If there is no recommended product, you can pick WD-40 silicone as a suitable option.
How to fix a squeaky treadmill?
The squeaky sound of a treadmill can be a sign of many problems. However, most commonly, it indicates that the belt needs lubrication or a sign of slipping the drive belt. Try to adjust the belt position and lubricate it to fix the squeaky sound.
Why does my treadmill smell like rubber?
The common reasons behind the rubber-like smell coming from the treadmill include short in the motor or wires or friction between the belt and deck. These problems can be hazardous if ignored. Therefore, lubricate the treadmill or repair it to avoid any mishap.
What can I use instead of silicone lubricant?
Treadmill wax is an excellent alternative to silicone lubricant. It comes in two forms, i.e., powder and wax stick for treadmill. You can choose one that suits you the most. Generally, the wax stick application is a bit hard because you must warm up the treadmill before the wax application.
Do you need to lubricate a new treadmill?
Yes, you have to lubricate a new treadmill before its first use. When if the treadmill comes pre-lubricated, the grease may reduce because the treadmill stays unused at the warehouse for an unknown time. Therefore, it is recommended to lubricate a new treadmill with 5ml lubricant before giving it a try.
Final Words
Regular maintenance is vital in keeping your treadmill in the best condition. Lubrication after 40 hours of use is an essential part of needed maintenance. Now you know how to apply treadmill lubricant and how easy it is to follow the above-shared steps. This simple routine can increase the lifespan of your equipment and improve its performance.
Along with the correct procedure, pick a suitable lubricant mentioned in the manufacturer’s guide or from the suggested options. Also, remember to lube your newly bought treadmill before first use. Keep track of your usage frequency and lubricate it after every 3-6 months. Nothing works better than taking care of your things, so take care of your treadmill to keep it with you for years.