Whether you use a treadmill to get more daily steps while working from home or to work on your fitness in a comfortable way, proper maintenance is essential for long-lasting enjoyment. And one of the most important aspects of this maintenance is lubricating the treadmill.
In this article, you'll discover why lubricating your treadmill is so important, how to do it yourself step by step, and how often you need to repeat it for optimal treadmill performance. We'll also provide tips on which lubricants you should or shouldn't use, so you can be sure you're maintaining your treadmill correctly.
Why should you lubricate a treadmill?
You should lubricate a treadmill to reduce friction between the running surface and the platform, which puts less strain on the motor and other components. Every time you use the treadmill, natural wear occurs due to the constant movement and pressure you exert while walking or jogging.
Without lubricating the treadmill, that friction increases and the belt can start running less smoothly, make more noise, and ultimately break down faster. By regularly lubricating a treadmill, you not only extend the treadmill's lifespan but also ensure a pleasant and safe training experience. Lubricating a treadmill therefore contributes to:
- Reduced wear on components such as the running surface and platform
- Quieter operation of the treadmill
- Less strain on the motor
- A longer lifespan for your treadmill
How to lubricate a treadmill
Lubricating a treadmill may sound complicated, but it's a simple action you can perform yourself in just a few minutes. It's important to do this carefully and safely so that the oil ends up in the right place and has optimal effect. Below, we explain step by step how to correctly lubricate your treadmill so that the device continues to run smoothly and wear is prevented.
1. Preparation
Always first turn off the treadmill completely and unplug it from the power outlet. Then lift the running surface of your foldable treadmill halfway up if you have a foldable model. If your treadmill is not foldable, carefully lift the belt slightly on one side.
2. Apply treadmill oil
Apply one to two drops of silicone oil in the center of the surface under the belt. Preferably use our WalkingPad silicone oil, as it's specially developed for treadmills and ensures optimal lubrication without damage to the running surface or platform.
3. Center the running surface
After applying the oil, it's important to check whether the running surface is still properly centered. When the belt isn't neatly in the middle, this can cause uneven wear and a less pleasant running experience. Therefore, check whether the treadmill runs straight and correct if necessary with the adjustment screws at the rear of the device.
4. Distribute the oil
Once the oil has been applied and the running surface is centered, you can turn on the treadmill again. Let the belt run for a few minutes at low speed so that the oil spreads well over the entire surface. After a few minutes, the oil is fully distributed and your treadmill is ready for use.
How often should you lubricate a treadmill?
You should lubricate a treadmill on average once every three months with normal use (2 to 3 times per week). If you use the treadmill more intensively, for example daily or more than 3 times per week, it's advisable to lubricate the treadmill once a month. This way you prevent the belt from running stiffly or making extra noise during use.
These guidelines are a useful starting point, but every user trains in a different way and with a different frequency. It's therefore smart not only to look at the time indication but also to regularly check yourself whether you need to lubricate the treadmill.
How do I check if I need to lubricate my treadmill?
You can easily check yourself whether your treadmill needs to be lubricated. By regularly performing a quick check, you'll know for sure whether it's time to get the oil or whether you can wait a bit longer. Follow these steps:
- Turn off the treadmill and unplug it from the power outlet
- Lift the foldable running surface slightly or carefully lift the belt slightly on one side so you can get your hand under the running surface
- Feel the surface of the platform under the belt with your hand
- Is the surface dry and rough? Then it's time to lubricate
- Does the surface still feel slightly greasy or smooth? Then you can postpone lubricating for a while
Which lubricant should I use for my treadmill?
For lubricating your treadmill, you should always use silicone oil. Silicone oil is specially developed to reduce friction between the running surface and the platform without causing damage to the motor or surface. Other oils, such as vegetable oil or penetrating oil, can damage the material and lead to permanent damage.
For best results, we recommend our KingSmith WalkingPad Silicone Oil. This oil is specifically designed for WalkingPad treadmills but can also be used without problems for treadmills from other brands. The oil ensures smooth operation, extends the lifespan of your device, and helps maintain a comfortable and quiet training experience.
Can I lubricate a treadmill with WD-40?
It's strongly discouraged to lubricate a treadmill with WD-40. Although WD-40 is often seen as a universal lubricant, it's not suitable for fitness equipment like a treadmill.
WD-40 contains solvents that can damage the running surface and platform and that moreover dry out over time. This causes the belt to lose its smoothness and can damage the motor and other components. Therefore, only use silicone oil to properly lubricate your treadmill and prevent problems.
Tips and advice for lubricating a treadmill
Although lubricating your treadmill is a simple task, there are still several things you should pay attention to in order to prevent damage and problems. Below you'll find some important advice on what you absolutely shouldn't do when lubricating your treadmill.
- Never use too much oil, as an excess can lead to leakage and damage to the floor or electronics
- Don't loosen the belt to lubricate; this can disrupt the tension and damage the adjustment
- Avoid using wrong lubricants such as WD-40, penetrating oil, or vegetable oil, as these are harmful to the running surface and motor
- Don't lubricate the treadmill while it's still on; always turn it off first and unplug it from the power outlet
- Always let the oil spread well after lubricating by running the treadmill for a few minutes at low speed
Extend your treadmill's lifespan with proper maintenance
A well-maintained treadmill not only lasts longer but also ensures that your workouts remain more comfortable and safer. By regularly cleaning your treadmill and consistently lubricating it with the right silicone oil, you prevent excessive wear and technical problems.
By choosing quality treadmills from WalkingPad, which are specially designed with a compact and space-saving design, you also benefit from ease of use and durability. Combine this with the right maintenance habits and you're assured of years of pleasant use. With good treadmill maintenance, you invest in the lifespan of your treadmill and in your own health.
