Avoid Using WD-40 To Fix This Common Home Exercise Equipment At All Costs
There's a chance that you use WD-40 at home to prevent rust and lubricate door and cabinet hinges. The reliable product is a go-to for homeowners and renters alike due to its versatility. However, it is important to keep in mind that there are still quite a few things WD-40 should never be used on. If you have ever considered using the product as a treadmill lubricant, you should know that this can actually damage your treadmill belt.
Instead of spraying WD-40 under your treadmill belt to ensure it operates smoothly, use a lubricant specifically formulated for treadmills. The equipment's care instructions should include information on exactly what products are safe to use to maintain it. Make an effort to apply an appropriate lubricant underneath the belt periodically to prevent excess friction that will eventually damage and possibly even destroy your machine. NordicTrack recommends lubricating your treadmill either every 130 miles or once every three months. More frequent treadmill use would require more frequent applications.
Why WD-40 should not be used on treadmills
WD-40 is often used as a lubricant to tackle things like squeaky door hinges, so you might be wondering why it cannot also be used to keep your treadmill running smoothly. Most treadmill belts are made of rubber, and petroleum-based products such as WD-40 will break this material down over time, which is why they are not recommended for use on treadmills. They can damage not only the rubber belt but also the belt deck.
The safest lubricant option for your treadmill is the product recommended by its manufacturer. Take a look at the equipment's user manual to find the specific product to purchase, and make sure you apply it as needed to increase the likelihood of your equipment lasting throughout its full expected lifetime. Long-lasting equipment will help you build the perfect home gym over time.
Self-lubricating treadmills are the only exception to this maintenance requirement. These machines include a built-in feature that distributes lubricant underneath the belt periodically to prevent damage.
How to apply treadmill lubricant
To apply treadmill lubricant properly, start by turning off and unplugging the machine. Next, you will need to loosen the treadmill belt so you can apply the lubricant to the deck. Use a screwdriver, a T-wrench, or an Allen wrench to loosen the belt. This step will vary depending on the type of treadmill you have, so it is important to refer to your manual for guidance.
After you have exposed the deck, you are ready to apply your lubricant. Apply the product where your feet touch down the most. This is likely in the center of the treadmill, a few inches away from the front end. Squirt the lubricant onto the deck from side to side. Make sure you do not get any of the product on top of the belt. If a bit of lubricant does end up there, wipe it off with a damp cloth and allow that area to dry before using the treadmill.
Once the lubricant has been applied, follow the instructions in your user manual to tighten the belt back down onto the deck. Next, plug the machine in and allow it to run at low speed to distribute the lubricant. Walk on the treadmill for a few minutes to help spread it more thoroughly. Now you are free to use equipment as normal. Don't forget to repeat this process as needed.