Treadmills & Exercise Bikes: Maintenance and Lubrication Tips
Regular maintenance keeps your treadmill or exercise bike running smoothly, ensures accurate performance, and extends the life of the motor, belt, and drive system. This guide covers routine cleaning, lubrication, inspection, and troubleshooting to help your machine stay in top condition.
Treadmill maintenance
Follow these regular steps to keep your treadmill running efficiently:
- After each use: Wipe the deck, side rails, and console with a soft, dry cloth to remove sweat and dust.
- Weekly: Vacuum around and under the treadmill to prevent dust build-up around the motor area.
- Monthly: Check for loose screws, belt alignment, and deck wear. Tighten and adjust as necessary.
- Every 3–6 months: Lubricate the deck (see below). Inspect the power cord and safety key function.
Treadmill lubrication
Most treadmills require periodic lubrication between the running belt and deck to reduce friction and motor strain. Use only the recommended 100% silicone-based lubricant for your brand.
How to lubricate your treadmill
- Unplug the treadmill before starting.
- Lift the belt slightly from one side (midpoint of the deck).
- Apply silicone oil – Use about 10–15 ml (2–3 sprays or 1 tablespoon) per side directly under the belt toward the centre of the deck.
- Distribute lubricant – Manually rotate the belt a few times to spread evenly, or run the treadmill at low speed (2–3 km/h) for 3–5 minutes.
- Wipe excess oil from edges and surfaces to prevent slippage.
Lubrication schedule
- Light use (under 3 hours/week): every 6 months
- Moderate use (3–5 hours/week): every 3 months
- Heavy use (6+ hours/week): every 4–6 weeks
Tip: Avoid over-lubrication — it can cause belt slippage and damage electronics.
Exercise bike maintenance
Exercise bikes (upright, spin, or recumbent) require less maintenance but still benefit from routine care:
- After each ride: Wipe down seat, handlebars, frame, and flywheel guard with a damp cloth to remove sweat.
- Weekly: Inspect pedals, straps, and seat bolts. Tighten if loose.
- Monthly: Check drive belt/chain tension, brake pad (if friction type), and alignment of flywheel.
- Quarterly: Lubricate moving joints and pedal threads using a light machine oil (never grease the resistance pads).
- Console care: Replace batteries or check power connections if display becomes unresponsive.
Common issues & troubleshooting
| Issue | Likely cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Belt slipping (treadmill) | Low tension or excess lubricant | Tighten rear roller bolts evenly; wipe excess oil |
| Squeaking or knocking noise | Loose hardware or dry joints | Tighten all bolts; apply light oil to moving parts |
| Uneven belt movement | Belt misalignment or uneven floor | Adjust alignment bolts; re-level the unit |
| Pedal resistance inconsistent | Worn brake pad or stretched cable | Replace pad/cable; calibrate resistance system |
| Display flickering / dead | Low batteries or loose wire | Replace batteries or reseat connections |
Safety & storage
- Always unplug before cleaning or maintenance.
- Keep children and pets away during operation or adjustments.
- Store in a dry, temperature-controlled area. Avoid direct sunlight or damp spaces.
- If moving, fold (if applicable) and lift from designated handles—avoid straining cables or sensors.
Need help?
If you experience persistent noise, belt slippage, or console errors after maintenance, contact our support team with your order number, model name, and details of the issue (photos or videos assist troubleshooting).
Email: helpdesk@foreveryhome.com.au
This guide offers general treadmill and exercise bike maintenance advice. Always consult your specific product manual for lubrication points, torque settings, and recommended lubricants.