You might be wondering, can I use WD-40 silicone on my treadmill? It’s a common question for treadmill owners looking to maintain their machine. The short answer is maybe, but you need to be very careful. Using the wrong product can damage your belt and deck, leading to costly repairs.
Can I Use WD 40 Silicone On My Treadmill
This question specifically refers to “WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant,” which is different from the classic WD-40 Multi-Use Product. The classic formula is a penetrant and water displacer, not a lubricant, and should never be used on a treadmill. The silicone version is a lubricant, but it’s not usually the best choice for modern treadmills.
Why Treadmill Lubrication is So Important
Your treadmill belt glides over a deck. Friction between them creates heat and wear. Proper lubrication reduces this friction. It protects your investment, ensures smooth operation, and can even make the machine quieter. Without it, the motor works harder and components fail faster.
The Problem With Aerosol Silicone Sprays
WD-40 Silicone comes in an aerosol can. This is where the main risk lies. Overspray is very hard to control. Silicone spray can get on the belt’s top surface, the side rails, and the electronics. A slippery belt surface is a major safety hazard for you. It can also create a mess that attracts dust.
Most treadmill manufacturers recommend a specific type of lubricant, usually a 100% silicone liquid. This is applied directly between the belt and deck without the risk of spray. Using an non-recommended product can void your warranty.
What Manufacturers Typically Recommend
- 100% Silicone Liquid Lubricant: This is the standard for most home treadmills. It’s often sold in small bottles with a thin applicator tube.
- Treadmill-Specific Brands: Like Spot On, Trek, or the brand’s own lubricant.
- Application Method: Directly under the belt, onto the deck, in a specific pattern.
Step-by-Step: How to Safely Lubricate Your Treadmill
If you’ve checked your manual and determined a 100% silicone liquid is correct, here’s how to do it.
- Unplug the treadmill from the wall outlet for safety.
- Locate the application points. Your manual will show if you need to lift the belt from the sides or back.
- Clean the deck area first by lifting the belt and wiping away old dust and debris.
- Apply the lubricant in a thin, even stream along the deck. Usually, two long lines about 10 inches apart down the center is sufficient. Don’t overdo it.
- Let the lubricant spread. Lower the belt and run the treadmill slowly at about 3 mph for 2-3 minutes. This distributes the silicone evenly.
- Wipe off any excess that seeps out the sides with a clean cloth.
When You Might Consider the WD-40 Silicone Option
In a pinch, if you have the WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant and your manual says silicone is okay, you could use it very carefully. You must take extra steps to control the spray.
- Spray a generous amount onto a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel until it’s damp.
- Unplug the treadmill and lift the belt.
- Wipe the damp cloth directly onto the treadmill deck in the required pattern.
- Avoid letting the cloth touch the top of the belt or any other parts.
- This method prevents dangerous overspray but is still not the manufacturers preferred method.
Parts of Your Treadmill You Should Never Lubricate
It’s crucial to know where not to put any lubricant, including silicone. Putting it in the wrong place can cause malfunctions or accidents.
- The Walking Belt Top Surface: This must remain grippy for your safety.
- Electronic Components: Keep all sprays away from the console, motor cover, and wiring.
- Roller Bearings or Motors: These are sealed and do not require user lubrication.
- The Side Rails: Lubricant here can get on your shoes and cause you to slip.
How to Know When Your Treadmill Needs Lubrication
Don’t just guess. Look for these common signs that it’s time for some maintenance. Your treadmill will often tell you when it needs help.
- The belt feels sticky or hesitates when you start walking.
- You hear a squeaking or rubbing noise from the belt area.
- The motor seems to labor or the belt stops abruptly when you step on it.
- It’s been 6 months or 130 hours of use (check your manual for the specific interval).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use WD40 on my treadmill belt?
No. Never use classic WD-40 Multi-Use Product on any part of your treadmill belt or deck. It will damage the materials and create a unsafe surface.
What can I use instead of treadmill lubricant?
It’s best to use the manufacturer’s recommended product. As a temporary substitute, a 100% silicone liquid lubricant from a hardware store (meant for rubber/plastic) is better than an aerosol spray. Always check your manual first.
How often should I silicone my treadmill?
Most manufacturers recommend lubricating every 3 months or after every 130 hours of use, whichever comes first. However, this varies, so your owner’s manual is the final authority.
Can I use silicone spray on treadmill?
It’s not advised due to overspray risks. If you must, apply the spray to a cloth first, then wipe the cloth on the deck—never spray directly on or near the treadmill.
What happens if I don’t lubricate my treadmill?
Friction will increase, causing excessive wear on the belt and deck. The motor and electronics will strain, leading to premature failure and potentially expensive repairs. It also makes your workout less smooth.
Final Recommendations for Treadmill Care
To keep your treadmill running well for years, follow a simple maintenance routine. It doesn’t take much time and it saves you money in the long run.
- Always refer to your owner’s manual first for specific lubricant types and schedules.
- Purchase the correct 100% silicone liquid lubricant. A bottle lasts for many applications.
- Keep the belt clean and aligned, and vacuum under the machine regularly to prevent dust buildup.
- If you’re unsure, contact the treadmill manufacturer or a local service technician for advice. They can help you find the right product for your specific model.
So, while you can use WD-40 silicone on your treadmill in a very careful way, it’s usually not the optimal or safest choice. Investing in the right tool for the job—a dedicated treadmill lubricant—is the best way to protect your machine and ensure your safety during every workout.