Treadmills are large exercise equipment that can suffer a great deal over the years. They are made to withstand repeated impact, but like many complicated machines, they can have a number of problems. Instead of buying a replacement when your treadmill fails, consider fixing it yourself. Try one of these methods if your equipment is failing.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Fixing a Treadmill That Will Not Turn On
Step 1. See if there are any problems connecting to the power source
The easiest malfunction to fix, and probably the most common, is that your treadmill is not turned on. Make sure it is plugged into a working outlet and that the pins on the outlet are not bent or distorted.
Step 2. Make sure the outlet your treadmill is plugged into receives electricity
Connect the equipment to another outlet to eliminate the first as a problem. If you don't have another outlet nearby, plug another device, such as an easy-to-move light bulb, to the outlet where the treadmill was plugged in and see if that other device works.
- If you know which outlets are on separate circuits, try using an outlet powered by another circuit.
- If the outlet is the problem, reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse and try turning the treadmill back on.
Step 3. Check the connections between your plug adapter and the equipment
Some treadmills need the power supply to be adjusted before reaching the engine. Make sure this adapter is in place and plugged in correctly.
Some templates may need to be opened to complete this Step. If this is the case, unplug the treadmill before opening any electrical box
Step 4. Disconnect the treadmill from its electrical source
To see if there are other problems, you will need to disconnect the equipment for safety reasons.
Step 5. Check belt fuses
If they are burned, the machine will not turn on. Luckily, this defect is usually quick and easy to fix. You can check them with a multimeter or take them to a local electronics store for testing.
If the fuses are blown, replace them with ones with the same amperage
Step 6. Determine if the problem is on the screen
If the machine does not turn on, it may be that the screen alone is not working. Make sure all the wires between the mat and the screen are securely attached.
Also see if there is energy reaching the screen. To do this, you can use the multimeter at the connection points between the electricity input and the screen
Step 7. Consult a professional technician
If you cannot find the problem with the previous steps, you may need to consult a professional.
If possible, contact the manufacturer for information on diagnostics to perform and a list of qualified service shops in your region
Method 2 of 3: Fixing a Defective Treadmill Belt
Step 1. Assess belt problems
See if the defect is in that part itself or if there is a mechanical failure in the pulleys.
This distinction will help you decide the next step. If the problem is with the belt itself, you can easily do the repairs yourself. Mechanical or engine defects, on the other hand, can be more difficult to fix at home
Step 2. Unplug the treadmill
When repairing it, it is very important to unplug it so that it does not accidentally turn on and hurt you.
Step 3. Clean the belt surface
Spray a cleaning solution onto a towel and wipe the garment. Dirt and debris can accumulate on it, slowing it down. Debris can also fall from the belt onto the belt, causing operating problems.
- Start cleaning from the top of the belt and pull it firmly to move it down until you've cleaned the entire surface.
- Allow the belt to dry well before using the machine. If it's wet, you could slip and get hurt.
Step 4. Center the belt on the treadmill
Adjust it so that it is centered on the machine. These pieces may stretch and begin to lean to one side after frequent use. You can try repositioning them on the outside of the belt by pulling them away from the sloping side.
If the problem is serious, a technician should check it out
Step 5. Lubricate the belt
If it hesitates when you step on it, you may need to lubricate it. This attitude reduces friction and can extend part life.
Buy a specific lubricant for treadmills or any silicone lubricant. Spray it in a thin layer between the belt and the machine surface
Step 6. Check the speed sensor
It helps to move the belt. If it is moving jerkily or not gaining speed, the sensor may be dirty or it may have come loose.
Usually, the sensor is inside the treadmill, near the belt. Consult the user manual for its exact location on your machine
Step 7. Replace the belt
If the previous steps do not eliminate the problems you are having with this part, you may need to replace it. Purchase a replacement belt from the manufacturer if you want to repair it yourself. See if it is the correct model for your treadmill.
You may prefer to take the treadmill to a professional to have the belt replaced
Method 3 of 3: Repairing the Engine
Step 1. Eliminate the possibility of other problems
Engine failure can be one of the most costly defects on a treadmill, so eliminate all others before proceeding to engine repairs.
Step 2. Check the error codes that appear on the screen using the user manual
It should inform you what type of failure is occurring with the treadmill motor.
The manual can also tell you if the problem can be fixed by you or if you need a professional
Step 3. Open the treadmill according to the manufacturer's instructions using a screwdriver or philips
Inspect engine connections. For non-specialists, looking at this piece can be useless. If nothing seems obviously wrong, you may need to consult a technician.
Be aware that opening the treadmill motor will likely void any warranties you may have on the equipment. If your treadmill is still under warranty, it may be better not to do any repairs at home and go straight to a professional technician
Step 4. Replace engine
This Step should only be done by someone who is very knowledgeable about engines and can easily read an electronic schematic.
Treadmill motors can be purchased at gym equipment outlets, both online and in physical stores
Notices
- Do not work on a treadmill connected to a power source. You could be electrocuted, or the belt could start to move unexpectedly.
- If your treadmill starts to smoke or give off a burning smell, stop using it immediately and unplug it from the power source.
- Never use a treadmill that is not working properly.
- Do not open the engine if you want to maintain the manufacturer's warranty.