In the daily use of commercial or home treadmills, the maintenance of the lubrication system directly affects the operational efficiency, noise level and service life of the equipment. The correct selection and use of lubricating oil can not only reduce frictional losses but also lower the load on the motor, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the treadmill. This article will delve into the types, application scenarios, usage methods and maintenance suggestions of treadmill lubricating oil, helping users master scientific lubrication management strategies.
1.Why do treadmills need regular lubrication?
Friction occurs between the running belt and the running board of a treadmill, as well as between the gears and bearings in the transmission system, during continuous movement. If proper lubrication is lacking, it will lead to:
Increased frictional resistance → increases the motor load and shortens the motor’s lifespan
Accelerated wear of the running belt → leading to stretching, deviation or premature scrapping of the running belt
Increased noise and vibration → affect user experience and even cause mechanical failures
Heat accumulation → accelerates the aging of lubricating oil and reduces the lubrication effect
Therefore, regular lubrication is the core link in the maintenance of treadmills, directly affecting the reliability of the equipment and the user experience.
2. Types and characteristics of treadmill lubricating oil
Treadmill lubricating oil is not ordinary engine oil, but a low-viscosity, high-temperature resistant and anti-corrosion lubricant specially designed for sports equipment. Common types of lubricating oil include:
(1)Silicone-Based lubricating oil (Lubricant)
Features: High viscosity stability, heat resistance (up to over 200°C), no dust adhesion, suitable for most household and commercial treadmills.
Advantages: Not volatile, stable long-term lubrication effect, and non-corrosive to rubber and plastic parts.
Applicable scenarios: Standard running belt lubrication, especially suitable for high-humidity environments.
(2) Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) lubricant (Teflon grease)
Features: Containing micron-sized PTFE particles, it forms an ultra-thin lubricating film, reducing the coefficient of friction to 0.05 to 0.1 (approximately 0.1 to 0.3 for ordinary lubricating oil).
Advantages: Extremely low frictional resistance, suitable for high-load transmission systems, and can extend the lifespan of running belts and motors.
Applicable scenarios: Commercial treadmills or frequently used equipment, where higher lubrication performance is required.
(3) Wax-Based lubricating oil (wax-based Lubricant)
Features: Solid waxy lubricant, which forms a lubricating layer through heating or pressure penetration, suitable for long-term maintenance-free requirements.
Advantages: Almost non-volatile, strong anti-pollution ability, suitable for harsh environments (such as gyms, outdoor training centers).
Applicable scenarios: Low-frequency use of treadmills or places with high cleanliness requirements.
Note: Avoid using non-specialized lubricants such as WD-40, engine oil or cooking oil, as they may corrode rubber running belts, attract dust or cause slippage.
3. Usage methods and best practices of treadmill lubricating oil
The correct lubrication method directly affects the lubrication effect and the service life of equipment. The following are the key steps of scientific lubrication:
(1) Suggested lubrication frequency
Home treadmills (used no more than 3 times a week) : Lubricate once every 3 to 6 months.
Commercial treadmills (frequently used, ≥2 hours per day) : Lubricate once every 1 to 3 months, or adjust as recommended by the manufacturer.
Environmental factors influence: In environments with high temperatures, high humidity or a lot of dust, the lubrication cycle should be shortened.
(2) Preparations before lubrication
Power off and clean the running belt: Use a soft cloth to remove dust, sweat or residual old lubricant from the running belt and running board.
Check the tightness of the running belt: The running belt should be able to be easily pinched with one finger by about 10 to 15mm (both too tight and too loose will affect the lubrication effect).
Select the appropriate lubrication point: usually the central area below the running belt (not the edge), to prevent the lubricant from overflowing into the motor or control board.
(3) Lubrication operation steps
Even application: Use the dedicated lubricating brush or dropper provided with the equipment to apply 3 to 5ml of lubricating oil in the center below the running belt (too much may cause slippage, while too little will result in insufficient lubrication).
Manual distribution of lubricant: Gently rotate the running belt (or manually move it) to evenly cover the entire contact surface with the lubricating oil.
Test run: Start up and run at low speed (about 3 to 5km/h) for 1 to 2 minutes to ensure that the lubricant is evenly distributed and there is no abnormal noise.
Professional tip: Some high-end treadmills use self-lubricating running belt systems (such as carbon fiber coated running belts), which can reduce the need for external lubrication, but regular inspections are still required.
Post time: Oct-27-2025