Treadmills provide you with two means to adjust the intensity of your workout: speed and incline. Most treadmills have power ramps that you incline by pressing control buttons on the console. Some models offer built-in programs that adjust the incline for you. Either way, if your ramp won't incline, try calibrating your treadmill before having the machine serviced.
Identification
Motorized treadmills typically feature a power incline function, which is adjustable by adjusting the incline buttons on the console. The incline system has its own motor, separate from the main treadmill motor. The treadmill belt can still run, even if the incline malfunctions. The incline is an intensity tool that mimics walking or running up hills. It allows you to increase the difficulty of your workout without increasing your speed.
Calibration
If the incline function fails on your treadmill, first try recalibrating the system. The calibration steps differ among brands and models. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions. Typically, the only tool you need to calibrate the incline is the safety key that comes with your treadmill. The process usually involves pressing a sequence of buttons with the safety key inserted in the console. The treadmill will recalibrate the incline and move it through its entire range of motion.
Mechanical Issues
If recalibration doesn't fix your incline, the problem is likely caused by a mechanical or electronic issue. Several factors can cause the incline to fail. The wiring from the console to the incline motor may be damaged. The incline sensor on the motor may be bad. The treadmilldoctor.com website notes that if the incline moves slightly, the incline gearbox could be jammed. It is possible that the incline motor itself has failed and needs to be replaced.
Service
Follow the troubleshooting tips in your owner's manual. If the incline still doesn't work, you will need to have your machine professionally serviced. Check your paperwork to see if your treadmill is still under warranty. Depending on the cause of the malfunction, the cost of repair may be covered. Contact your treadmill manufacturer with the model and serial number of your machine. A service technician can usually provide further troubleshooting steps to determine the cause of the malfunction.
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