Treadmills are great machines. They help you keep up with your exercise routine despite unfavorable weather or outdoor conditions. However, if you frequently use your treadmill, it will run into issues that may or may not require professional services sooner or later. This is why it’s helpful to learn a few things about troubleshooting to fix common treadmill problems.
Treadmill Repair Guide – Troubleshooting Possible Issues
Fixing Treadmill Belt Problems
The treadmill running belt usually works the hardest and longest, to this effect, it suffers a lot of issues such as the following:
1. Slipping Belt
Once you start to notice or have the feeling of slipping off each time you use your best treadmills, it would be wise to check out for slipping belt issues. What you have to do is to ensure the running belt is neither too loose nor too tight.
Try lifting the running belt in the center. If you cannot lift it 2-3 inches high, then it’s too taut. Also, if your entire hand can go under the running belt center, it is too loose.
A slipping belt can occur when the belt is overly tight. On some rare occasions, it could also be due to a loose or overly stretched-out belt.
2. Heated Belt
Once you start to notice or have the feeling of slipping off each time you use your treadmill, it would be wise to check out for slipping belt issues. What you have to do is to ensure the running belt is neither too loose nor too tight.
Try lifting the running belt in the center. If you cannot lift it 2-3 inches high, it is too taut. Also, if your entire hand can go under the running belt center, it is too loose.
A slipping belt can occur when the belt is overly tight. On some rare occasions, it could also be due to a loose or overly stretched-out belt
3. Belt Uncenters Itself
Usually, when a belt uncenters itself, it results from rear-positioned rollers’ nonalignment. To fix this problem, you will first have to allow the treadmill to power on and then turn the speed to the barest minimum it can operate.
Now, insert into either of the two tension bolts an Allen wrench that is large enough to size the bolts then make one-quarter turn either to the right or left, then Observe How the Belt Tracks. Adjust the bolt accordingly until it finally aligns with the bolt on the other side (i.e., aligns perfectly). Finally, you should test to see if the belt would remain centered in position when in use, by walking on the treadmill for a few minutes.
Fixing Problems with the Treadmill Motor/Power Drive
Like the treadmill, the motor suffers from issues due to the amount of work it is expected to perform. Here are some common problems and how you can fix them:
1. Erratic Speed
If you observe of treadmill’s speed always changing as you run, it could be due to movement problems. First, you should get off the machine and check to see if the treadmill is running on the speed settings recommended on the user’s manual by the manufacturer. Without getting back on the treadmill, allow it to run on the recommended speed and watch from the side to see if the belt hitches. If belt hitched, you would need to replace the belt. If not, then it could be due to either an electrical or mechanical error.
First, carry out a mechanical error check. To do this, you will need to power off the machine and walk on the belt. The belt will not move as freely as when the machine is powered on; it will still move after making each step. If this is the case, then it is a mechanical error. Applying lubricants to the belt or making sure to align the tension bolts should correct it.
To check for an electrical error, take off the motor’s hood and check to see if the belt sufficiently grips the roller. Speed is compromised when enough power does not transfer due to insufficient gripping of the roller.
2. Burning Smell
If you notice the smell of rubber burning around your machine, this could either be caused by a minor or major challenge. It could be a minor issue that may have been caused by the excessive frictional force between an overly tight belt and the treadmill platform, which will lead to burns.
It would be best to disconnect from the power source and adjust the belt if it too tight or apply some lubricant to reduce friction.
It could also be a major issue that could be related to the motor, electronics, or wiring. In which case, you should replace the affected parts.
3. No Display
Usually, problems that cause the treadmill console display to malfunction are not hard to rectify. Try first by examining the power cable and any other cables that may be visible. If you observe that the batteries are worn out, or the cables appear to have been crimped, you have to change them. If the problem is connected to the flywheel, then you must carry out a thorough assessment.
Perhaps you might have to replace a magnet that fell off, or if the console display becomes frozen, you may have to reset the circuit breaker. To do this, disconnect the power cable from the wall for at least one minute.
Non-Working Motor
A motor that no longer works effectively could be very expensive to fix. Some of the factors that could cause a motor not to function are:
- When it operates at maximum speed,
- When you can no longer adjust it, and
- When it keeps on working poorly, or when it is not working at all.
You may need to get a replacement if any of the factors mentioned above is the issue. When treadmills work at maximum speed, circuit failure issues are likely to occur and this can most times compromise your safety.
Once you find that it is apparent that you cannot fix the issue with your motor, it would be best to call in a professional for a complete replacement.
Treadmill Will Not Turn On/Off
If the treadmill is connected to a Ground Fault Current Interrupter outlet that trips-out afterward, this can affect the treadmill when starting. You have to ensure the outlet is reset, and that should solve it.
However, in case of a live power outlet, first, try to power on the console. If the treadmill is still off, disconnect the power cable from the outlet, and after taking off the hood of the motor, check to see if there are pin connection or wire cables that are disconnected. Conversely, if the cables are in place, then you might need to unplug and re-plug the plastic connectors.
Cleaning and Storing Your Treadmill
We recommend storing or keeping treadmill in a dry place. Also, ensure to keep the temperature within the range recommended by the manufacturers. Remember, low temperatures can lead to damage on plastic parts.
Maintaining Your Treadmill
1. Weekly
You should use a nonabrasive or spray cleaner on a soft cloth to clean the frame and display board only (belt not inclusive).
2. Monthly
Vacuum-clean beneath the tread as well as beneath the hood of the tread. Ensure to calibrate tread to ascertain optimal function. Make sure the belt is aligned, power cables are in good condition, and screws are tightened in place.
3. Quarterly
Lubricate the platform and the belt (according to the manufacturer’s recommendations), and the elevation screw. Make sure all bolts and screws are well tight and fixed.
4. Yearly
Since the treadmill will naturally start wearing apart with use over time, it is best to carry out all the above maintenance instructions or call in a professional to examine your treadmill from time to time.
Staying Safe on Your Treadmill
You really should have minimal reasons to be afraid if you adhere strictly to the recommended safety measures, such as:
- Not getting on and off the machine when it is running,
- Using the safety key rather than clinging to the rails,
- Keeping the speed at a safe level, and
- Not looking at your feet, but looking forward.
FAQs
Q. 1: Where Can I Buy Lubricant for My Treadmill?
Ans: You can get treadmill lubricant from almost any store that sells sporting items, or preferably from the treadmill’s manufacturer. However, before you purchase just any type of lubricant, it is safe to see if your treadmill uses a special lubricant by confirming from the user’s manual.
Q. 2: How Do I Restart My Treadmill?
Ans: Resetting one treadmill may differ from another. Nonetheless, you will find around your console a reset button or hole. It is advised to check with your machine’s user manual.
Q. 3: Where Can I Get a Replacement Safety Key for My Treadmill?
Ans: You have several options where to get a replacement safety key for your treadmill:
- From the treadmill manufacturer,
- From stores that sell sporting items,
- Or from online shopping platforms like Amazon.
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