How to Fix a Treadmill
Treadmills are large pieces of exercise equipment that can take a lot of abuse over the years. They’re designed to withstand repeated impact, but, like many complicated machines, they can malfunction in a variety of ways. Instead of buying a replacement when your treadmill acts up, consider trying to fix the problem yourself. Try one of these troubleshooting methods if your treadmill is malfunctioning.
Check for problems at the connection to the power source. The easiest problem to fix, and probably the most common, is a that your treadmill is just not plugged in. Make sure your treadmill is plugged into an electrified electrical outlet and that the prongs on the treadmill’s power plug are not bent or distorted in any way.
Check that the outlet your treadmill is plugged into is actually electrified. Plug the treadmill into a different outlet to eliminate the first outlet as the issue. If you do not have another outlet nearby, plug another device, such as an easily movable lamp, into the treadmill’s outlet to see if it works.
- If you know which outlets are on separate circuits, try using an outlet that is powered by another circuit.
- If you don’t have any power at the outlet, reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse and try to turn your treadmill on again.
Check the connections between your power adaptor and the equipment. Some treadmill models need the power supply to be adjusted before it gets to the motor. Make sure that this adaptor is in place and plugged in properly.
- Some models may need to be opened to complete this step. If this is the case, be sure to unplug your treadmill before opening any electrical boxes.
Check your treadmill fuses. If the fuses are blown, your treadmill will not start. Luckily a blown fuse is usually a quick and easy fix. You can check your fuses with a multi-meter or take them to a local electronics store for testing.[1]
- If your fuses are blown, be sure to replace them with fuses that are that have the same amperage rating.
Determine whether the problem is at the display. If your machine won’t turn on, it may just be that the screen of your treadmill is not working. Make sure that all of the wires between the treadmill and the display are secure.
- Also check that you are getting power to the display. You can check this by using your multi-meter at the connection points between the power coming in and the display
Consult a professional repair person. If you are unable to find the problem with the previous steps, you may need to consult a professional.
- If available, contact the manufacturer for information on further diagnostics to perform and for a list of qualified repair shops in your area.
Fixing a Malfunctioning Treadmill Belt
Troubleshoot running belt issues. Determine whether the problem is with the belt itself or a mechanical issue with the belt drivers.
- Making this determination will help you make your next step. If the problem is with the belt itself, you may be able to make repairs relatively easily yourself. Motor or mechanical issues may be more difficult to fix at home.
Clean the surface of the treadmill belt. Spray a towel with a cleaning solution and wipe down the belt. Dirt and debris can collect on the belt, which can slow it down. Debris can also drop from the belt into the interior of the treadmill, causing operating problems.[4]
- Begin cleaning at the top of the belt and tug the belt firmly to move it downward until you have cleaned the entire surface.
- Be sure to let the surface get really dry before you use the machine. A wet belt could cause you to slip and injure yourself.
Center the treadmill belt. Adjust the belt so that it is centered in the machine. Belts can stretch and begin to lean to one side after frequent use. You can try repositioning the belt from the outside of the treadmill by pulling gently away from the slanted side.
- If the problem is severe, a technician should look at the issue.Lubricate the belt. If the belt on your treadmill hesitates when you step on it, you may need to lubricate it. This reduces belt friction and can lengthen the life of the belt.
- Buy treadmill belt lubricant or any silicone lubricant. Spray lubricant in a thin layer between the belt and the treadmill deck.[5] For more information on how to lubricate your treadmill’s belt see: How to Lubricate the Deck of a Treadmill.
