How to Care for Your New Treadmill - 10 Simple Tips to Keeping It Running Smoothly.

Buying a new treadmill can be an exciting (and sometimes exhausting) process. You've done your research, read the reviews, and made your decision. Congratulations, you're now on your way to reaping the benefits of owning a treadmill!

However, now that you have your new treadmill, you want to ensure that it runs smoothly for many years to come.

If this is your first home treadmill, you may be unaware that it takes some effort to keep these things running. Don't worry, you don't have to be a mechanical genius to run your own treadmill.

These 10 simple tips will help you keep your new treadmill clean and running smoothly for the duration of its life.

How to Keep Your New Treadmill in Good Condition

#1 Place your treadmill on a flat surface

This is the most basic and obvious way to keep your treadmill running smoothly. It is critical to ensure that the floor on which your treadmill is installed is level in order for the belt to run evenly across the deck.

If you place your treadmill on an uneven surface, the belt will most likely wear out faster than it would otherwise. It may also cause the belt to slide to one side or the other instead of running straight down the center of the deck.

If you intend to place your treadmill in a garage or attic where the floor may not be completely level, you should be able to level it using the adjustable leveling feet on the bottom of the deck.

#2 Clean the Machine (After Use)

This may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people I've seen in the gym use a treadmill and then simply hop off without wiping it down. This is not only unsanitary for the next user, but it can also cause unnecessary corrosion of the frame and belt.

Don't worry if this reminds you of all the times you were guilty of not cleaning up after yourself at the local gym—I'm not here to judge.

But now that you have your own treadmill, you want it to look good and last as long as possible, so begin wiping down any area of the machine that collects sweat after each use.

It's also a good idea to clean the console on a weekly basis. Don't bother with fancy detergents; a wet cloth will suffice.

#3 Belt Cleaning (Monthly)

Cleaning the area between the deck and the belt is also a good idea. After all, this is most likely the most prone to wear and tear on the treadmill.

With time, dust and dirt can accumulate beneath the belt. This can result in a faster breakdown of the belt.

Unwanted debris can be removed with a damp cloth or a vacuum attachment.

It's also a good idea to keep the area around and under your treadmill clean. While you're cleaning, you might as well go ahead and vacuum the area around it.

#4 Clean the Areas Around the Motor (Monthly)

I'm a realistic guy, and I understand that this one may be a little more difficult to remember to do every month. In the worst-case scenario, try to clean the motor area at least once a quarter (3 months).

It's a good idea to remove the hood from the treadmill motor and vacuum around it to remove any dust or debris. This will assist in keeping your motor running at peak efficiency.

Your user manual may contain specific instructions for doing so (like using a dry cloth instead of a vacuum). When in doubt, follow the instructions in your manual—the last thing you want to do is void the warranty by performing improper maintenance.

PS: Before cleaning the area around the motor on your treadmill, please make sure it is unplugged.

#5 Belt Lubricant (As Needed)

While some home treadmills have "self lubricating belts" and don't, others don't. To find out if you need to lubricate your belt, consult your user manual.

Depending on how much use a budget treadmill gets, the belt usually needs to be lubricated every few months or so.

Most belts need to be lubricated with 100% silicone. To prevent completely ruining your belt, it's essential to use the proper kind of lubricant.

Again, refer to your user manual for specific instructions. The majority of treadmill lubricants are available as sprays or liquids and are easily applied directly under the side of the belt.

#6 Tighten Belt (As Needed)

Even if most decent treadmills come with the belt tension already set, with repeated use, the belt will most likely begin to loosen.

This is all part of keeping a treadmill running. The tension on the deck will gradually decrease as the belt stretches. You'll notice this because the belt moves too much on the deck—it can make using the treadmill feel awkward, as if you're slipping around too much.

To adjust the tension of the belt, there are usually two bolts at the end of the treadmill deck that can be tightened. For more information, consult your user manual.

#7 Belt Adjustment (As Needed)

This is related to tip #6. When everything is working properly, the belt should be centered on the deck. As the belt loosens, it may become misaligned and drift to one side or the other.

This can also happen if the treadmill isn't centered on the ground, as I mentioned.

If you notice this, you should immediately center the belt to avoid accidentally wearing it down asymmetrically.

You will use the same bolts as mentioned previously. Tighten the appropriate bolt in order to center to the right. Tighten the left bolt to center to the left.

This should be covered in detail in your user manual. Again, make sure you follow their instructions to avoid voiding your warranty.

#8 Belt Replacement (As Needed)

Even if you clean and lubricate your treadmill regularly, you will eventually need to replace the belt. You might be able to do this yourself depending on how handy you are and how well you follow directions.

If in doubt, hire a professional.

Remember that, depending on the quality of your treadmill, your belt should be covered by a warranty for the first few years.

If not, a new belt could set you back around $200. As long as your motor and deck are still in good working order, it may make more sense to invest in a new belt rather than a new treadmill.

#9 Make Use Of A Surge Protector

To protect the treadmill's electronics (which are essential to its operation unless you're using a manual treadmill), plug it into a surge protector.

Some people also advise unplugging your machine when not in use. This may save you a small amount on your power bill, but it isn't necessary if you're using a good surge protector.

#10 Make Use Of A Treadmill Mat

This isn't necessary, but I prefer even numbers, so here we go. By placing your treadmill on a mat, you can help protect your floor from damage. It may also reduce the number of times you have to vacuum under your treadmill.

It also gives your machine a nice, finished appearance, in my opinion. Always keep things classy.

Final Thoughts

Whether you've just purchased your first treadmill or are trying to keep your 5-year-old treadmill running smoothly, it's critical to have a regular maintenance plan in place.

These 10 pointers will get you started in the right direction. When in doubt, always consult your user's manual to ensure you're following the manufacturer's instructions.

Especially when it comes to belt maintenance.