Maintaining your home gym gear is key to ensuring a secure and productive exercise routine. What’s the lifespan of a treadmill belt? In my experience, this all depends on how you care for it. Because I test treadmills at my home, I can see the difference. I have some 2-ply belts that look brand new even after four years of use. I’ll delve into the factors that affect durability and provide you with the information you need to keep your treadmill in top condition.
Treadmill belts are the workhorses of your machine, enduring the impact of every step and stride. But even the sturdiest belts have their limits. Typically, a treadmill belt’s lifespan ranges between 5 to 7 years with regular use and, importantly, proper maintenance. But if you take nothing else from this article, know this: 2-ply belts are better than 1-ply and they’re well worth the purchase.
What Is a Treadmill Belt Anyway?
The belt is arguably one of the most important parts of a treadmill. The thin strip of material that fits atop the deck, this is what you’ll be running on as it’s pulled by rollers on either end. Just as treadmill decks vary in size, so do treadmill belts. If you have a 60″ x 20″ deck, you’ll need a different belt than if it’s a 60″ x 22″. In my experience, it’s critical to get the right sized belt if you have to replace one. Don’t be that guy that figures one size fits all because it won’t once you get to running on it.
Most home treadmill belts you’ll see these days use a PVC top coating and either a monofilament or poly-blend for backing. Depending on the brand, they might have a cotton component as well to absorb the noise. Poly-blend belts tend to be quieter and have lower friction, but monofilament belts, while noisier, have a longer lifespan. If you’re used to commercial treadmill decks in gyms, you’ll notice they have a urethane topcoat. This prevents wear marks and is designed for heavier usage.
When shopping for treadmills you’ll undoubtedly see these terms
- Single Ply: The belt is one solid piece of material.
- 2-Ply: The upper side of the belt is rubber or PVC, and the underside is cotton, polyester, urethane, or mono-filament.
- 4-Ply or 3-Ply: Additional layers of the above materials can be added for extra coating.
The type of material used for the belt makes a difference when considering longevity. I’ve found over the years that the 2-ply belt is the best deal. Frankly, unless you’re using an under-desk treadmill or walking pad I can’t see any reason to buy anything but a 2-ply. Having the underside protected by cotton or some other type of material makes for a quieter and smoother ride. Treadmill decks have a phenolic resin applied to them and they’re smooth as a billiard ball, which is made from the same material. Imagine sliding rubber across a billiards ball, as opposed to cotton. There’s no question the cotton-backed 2-ply belt is smoother and won’t stick, even if you’re dripping sweat. But before you think having a third or fourth layer is better, remember the extra weight they bring. Extra weight on the belt means more heat and work required of the motor. Belts with three or four layers will typically require lubrication more frequently.
What Affects A Treadmill Belt’s Life?
A treadmill belt’s durability is not simply a measure of time but is greatly influenced by various factors:
- Regular Usage Impact: If you’re hitting the treadmill frequently, be mindful that consistent use can accelerate the wear and tear on the belt.
- Impact of User Weight: It’s important to consider that users with a higher body weight can add extra stress to the treadmill belt, potentially leading to a quicker breakdown.
- Treadmill Build Quality: Invest in higher-end treadmills if you’re looking for a belt that can endure more rigorous and frequent workouts. These models are typically crafted to last longer, even under strenuous conditions.
- Maintenance: Just like anything else, if you don’t keep your treadmill belt clean and lubricated, it will wear out faster. Dirt caught between the belt and deck will produce friction and eat away at the material.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1250’s 2-ply belt when new looks and feels clean. Photo by Brian Boyce
Keeping Up With Maintenance
One cannot overstate the importance of proper lubrication and regular cleaning. These maintenance steps are not just for upkeep; they’re crucial for extending the belt’s longevity. Be alert to unusual noises or signs of excessive belt wear, as these may indicate it’s time to replace the treadmill belt. As a rule, you should lubricate the belt every 40 hours of use or three months, whichever comes first.
To ensure you are on the right track, consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines or seeking professional maintenance services is a wise choice for the long-term health of your treadmill.
Signs That It’s Time to Replace the Treadmill Belt
Even with meticulous care, your treadmill belt will inevitably show signs of wear and tear. It’s essential to recognize these signs to ensure you continue to work out in a safe environment. When maintaining your treadmill, here are some clear indications that it may be time to replace the belt:
Signs of Deterioration
If you notice the belt is starting to fray, thin out, or show actual tears, it’s a strong indication that its structural integrity has been jeopardized. These visible signs of degradation suggest that it’s time for a new belt.
Belt Slippage
A treadmill belt that seems to slip or stutter during use often points to an issue with tension and adhesion. This can affect your workout and might even pose a safety risk. It’s likely that the belt requires replacement to restore smooth and consistent movement.
Misalignment Problems
Should you find the treadmill belt consistently drifting to one side and refusing to stay aligned, despite your adjustment efforts, it may have stretched to a point where it’s no longer functional. This misalignment is a telltale sign that the belt needs to be replaced to keep your workouts on track. You can read my review here on how to align your treadmill belt. The great news is, it’s easy.
For more insights and tips on treadmill maintenance, as well as comprehensive treadmill reviews to help you choose the right treadmill, visit TreadmillReviews.net.
Loosening a treadmill belt is often as simple as turning a screw. Photo by Brian Boyce
Can You Replace A Treadmill Belt Yourself?
Wondering if you can replace a treadmill belt at home? The answer is yes, and doing so can save you from pricey service fees. However, there are some key points to consider before you start this DIY project. You can read my step-by-step piece here, “How to Change A Treadmill Belt” for a thorough walk-through. The first thing you’ll need to do is determine what size of belt you’ll need to buy. Your first stop would be the manufacturer’s website. Most companies carry spare parts, but if they don’t, you’ll certainly be able to find your brand and model on retailers such as Amazon.com. I strongly advise getting a 2-ply belt for most treadmills even if you don’t use it very often. The extra coating simply makes for a better ride.
When it comes to maintaining your treadmill, the initial step should always be to consult the owner’s manual that came with your machine. This important resource contains specific guidelines and identifies the tools you’ll need for proper upkeep. The only tools you should need are screwdrivers and perhaps a wrench, but the whole process shouldn’t take you more than a few minutes. This is also a good time to clean the deck if you haven’t already.
Once you’ve replaced the belt, be sure to check it for alignment by letting the treadmill run slowly and watching it from the rear. You’ll be able to see if the belt is on straight or not.