Treadmills are a basic piece of exercise equipment designed to improve your fitness level by walking or running. To power the walking belt, the treadmill features a motor that must be powered by an external electrical source. Treadmill power requirements vary among different brands, styles and models depending on the features, size of the motor and maximum speed potential.
Intended Use
Treadmill power requirements are dependent on the intended use and overall construction of the machine, and are typically listed as treadmill duty or continuous duty. Treadmill duty motors refer to the amount of rated power output that are specifically designed for treadmill use. Continuous duty motors, however, deliver a continual power supply and are designed for heavy usage over extended periods of time. The electrical specifications for the treadmill are based on treadmill duty or continuous duty, and protect the treadmill and the user from damage or injury.
Motor
The size of the motor changes the electrical requirements. As a general rule, larger motors are more durable and are capable of producing higher running speeds, but they also require a larger power supply. The power output of the motor is expressed in horsepower and influences the speed potential of the treadmill. If you are walking on the treadmill, you can use a motor with 1.0 to 1.5 continuous horsepower but if you are running on the treadmill you will need a 2.0 to 3.0 horsepower motor.
Home Treadmills
Home or residential treadmills commonly require a standard 120 volt AC outlet. These outlets are the common plug-ins found in most homes. The treadmill should be plugged into an outlet with a dedicated 15 amp circuit, non-GFI, grounded line, A dedicated circuit means the treadmill is on a circuit with no other electrical equipment or machines. If the motor size of a home treadmill exceeds 5 horsepower, the 120 volt AC outlet won't provide enough power.
Commercial Treadmills
Commercial treadmills generally have larger motors and larger running platforms that require more power than a standard house or 120 volt AC outlet. Some commercial treadmills can run on 120 volt AC outlets, but most require a 220 VAC power supply or a three-phase 220 VAC. If the treadmill is capable of operating on a 120 volt AC outlet, the circuit should be on a dedicated 20 amp circuit.
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