It's important to remain enthusiastic about workouts when your treadmill doesn't work. In spite of the numerous options and settings built into many units, treadmills are relatively basic. Motorized treadmills have an electric motor that powers the running belt and incline feature. Familiarity with the workings of a voltage meter will help you isolate problems associated with the electrical circuits. Visual inspection of the undercarriage may also disclose a problem that causes your treadmill not to work.
Safety Key
Motorized treadmills are designed to operate with a safety key inserted at the console. Inserting the key closes electrical contacts, allowing electrical current to activate the control functions and internal circuits that power the motor. A damaged or cracked safety key may not work as intended. Replacing the safety key may resolve the problem. When the problem remains, inspect the key switch by removing the console cover. Clean the switch with electrical contact cleaner, replace the cover and attempt to start the treadmill with the safety key inserted.
Electrical Circuits
Your treadmill receives power via an electrical cord that plugs into a 120-volt electrical outlet. Plug a working table lamp or small power tool into the outlet to determine whether the outlet has power. If the outlet is dead, resetting the electrical breaker or replacing the outlet may resolve the treadmill problem. Unplug the treadmill cord from the wall and remove the treadmill console cover. Insert the safety key to close the contacts. Once you know you have power from the wall plug, referring to your treadmill manual will show you the electrical terminals that you need to test for resistance (Ohms) using a voltage meter. Resistance tests will verify the integrity of the control panel circuits.
Motor Output
Electrical current flows from the control panel to a circuit board near the treadmill motor. The motor is located below a cover at the front of the unit. Remove the cover bolts with an Allen wrench or screwdriver and lift the cover off to expose the motor and circuit board. With the power cord unplugged from the electrical outlet, test the resistance at the circuit board and the wire leads from the motor. If the circuit board has proper resistance, remove the motor mount bolts, lift the motor out, and have it tested by an electronic technician.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Motorized and manual treadmills are vulnerable to buildups of dust and debris in the undercarriage. Your treadmill resides on the floor where dust may accumulate as it does under a couch or bed frame. Excessive dirt and lack of lubrication taxes the treadmill's motor. Treadmill manufacturers recommend regular cleaning in order to avoid problems with electrical circuits, the motor and the running belt components. Tilt the treadmill to one side and clean the undercarriage with a hand-held vacuum or shop vacuum. Refer to your manual for running belt and roller lubrication.
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