Keeping your treadmill in good shape is essential, and knowing how to oil your Horizon treadmill is a key part of that. Regular lubrication reduces friction, protects the deck, and makes your runs smoother and quieter. Neglecting this simple task can lead to premature wear and costly repairs. This guide will walk you through the entire process, making it easy for you to maintain your machine.
How to Oil Your Horizon Treadmill
Before you start, it’s important to gather the right supplies. You’ll need a specific type of lubricant and a few basic tools. Using the wrong product can damage your treadmill.
What You’ll Need
- 100% silicone-based treadmill lubricant. Do not use WD-40 or other household oils.
- A clean, lint-free cloth or paper towels.
- A screwdriver (usually a Phillips head) to lift the walking belt, if needed.
- A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment (optional but helpful).
Step 1: Safety First – Unplug the Treadmill
Always, always unplug your treadmill from the electrical outlet before starting any maintenance. This prevents any accidental starts and keeps you completely safe while you’re working around the motor and belt.
Step 2: Check If Lubrication is Needed
First, you need to see if your treadmill actually needs oil. You can perform a simple test to check the current lubrication level.
- Lift the walking belt from one side and slide your hand between the belt and the deck.
- Feel for any silicone residue. If it feels dry or only slightly slick, it’s time to lubricate.
- If you feel a noticeable, even layer of slick silicone, you can probably wait a bit longer.
Most Horizon treadmills need lubrication every 130 miles or every 3 months, whichever comes first. But checking manually is the best way to be sure.
Step 3: Center the Walking Belt
The walking belt should be centered on the deck before you apply lubricant. If it’s shifted to one side, you’ll need to adjust it. Look at the rear roller adjustment bolts at the back of the treadmill. Using the provided allen wrench, turn the bolts a quarter-turn to move the belt. Turn the right bolt clockwise to move the belt right, and the left bolt clockwise to move it left. Do this with the treadmill off and unplugged, of course.
Step 4: Lift the Belt and Apply the Lubricant
Now for the main step. Carefully lift one side of the walking belt. You may need to loosen the belt tension slightly using the rear adjustment bolts to get enough slack. Don’t lift it to high, just enough to get the lubricant nozzle underneath.
- Insert the nozzle of your silicone lubricant bottle under the belt, about 3-4 inches in from the side.
- Apply a thin, continuous bead of lubricant along the length of the deck as you slowly pull the bottle toward you. Aim for the center of the deck area.
- Repeat this process from the other side of the treadmill, applying a second bead next to the first one. Two parallel lines is usually sufficient for most Horizon models.
- Be careful not to over-apply. A little goes a long way, and to much lubricant can cause the belt to slip.
Step 5: Spread the Lubricant Evenly
After applying the silicone, you need to help it distribute. Lower the belt back into place. Then, plug the treadmill back in. Stand on the side rails, not the belt. Start the treadmill at a very slow speed, like 1 or 2 mph. Let it run for 2-3 minutes. This allows the belt motion to spread the silicone lubricant evenly across the entire deck surface.
Step 6: Final Check and Clean Up
After the lubricant is spread, stop the treadmill and unplug it again. Wipe of any excess lubricant that may have seeped out from the edges with your clean cloth. This keeps the area tidy and prevents dirt buildup. Give the belt a final feel check to ensure it moves smoothly.
Tips for Different Horizon Treadmill Models
While the basic process is similar, some Horizon treadmills have specific features. For example, some newer models come with a “Lube Alert” reminder. Others, like the T101, have a wax-based lubrication system from the factory. Always check your owner’s manual first for model-specific instructions. If you’ve lost your manual, you can usually find it online on Horizon’s website by searching your model number.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using aerosol spray silicone. It can get on electronic parts and cause damage. Use drip bottles only.
- Oiling to frequently. This can cause slippage and a mess.
- Forgetting to re-center the belt after lubrication, which can lead to uneven wear.
- Not cleaning the deck area under the belt before applying new lubricant. Dirt and old lubricant mix can be abrasive.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice persistent issues even after proper lubrication—like a burning smell, loud noises, or the belt constantly slipping—it might be time to call for service. Other signs include a deck that is visibly warped or damaged, or if the motor seems to be struggling. Sometimes the problem is more than just needing oil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I oil my Horizon treadmill?
You should lubricate your Horizon treadmill approximately every 130 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. However, if you use your treadmill very heavily, you might need to do it more often. Always perform the manual check by feeling under the belt.
What is the best lubricant for a Horizon treadmill?
The best lubricant is a 100% silicone-based treadmill lubricant. Horizon often recommends their own brand, but other high-quality silicone lubricants from fitness stores work well. Never use household oils, greases, or WD-40 as they can damage the belt and deck.
Can I use WD-40 on my treadmill?
No, you should never use WD-40 on your treadmill. WD-40 is a penetrant and water displacer, not a lubricant. It will damage the walking belt and deck, leading to expensive repairs. It can also create a dangerous slipping hazard.
How do I know if my treadmill belt is too tight or too loose?
A belt that’s to tight will cause excessive friction and motor strain. A belt that’s too loose will slip under your feet. You can check by trying to lift the belt from the middle. There should be about 2-3 inches of lift. If you can’t lift it, it’s too tight. If it lifts very easily and feels slack, it’s to loose.
My treadmill is making a squeaking noise. Will oiling fix it?
Squeaking is often a sign that lubrication is needed. However, it could also be due to a misaligned belt, a dirty motor pulley, or worn bearings. Oiling is the first and easiest thing to try. If the squeak persists after proper lubrication, further investigation is needed.
Is there such a thing as a self-lubricating Horizon treadmill?
Some Horizon treadmills come with a deck that has a longer-lasting lubrication system or a low-maintenance coating. However, even these models may eventually require additional silicone lubricant over time. Always refer to your specific model’s manual for its maintenance requirements, as they are not truly “self-lubricating” forever.
What if I accidentally over-lubricated my treadmill?
If you applied to much silicone, the belt may slip. Unplug the treadmill and use a clean cloth to wipe up as much excess as you can from the edges. Then, run the treadmill at a slow speed for 5-10 minutes to help distribute and expel the extra lubricant. You may need to wipe it down a few times. The problem should resolve once the excess is worked out.
Regular maintenance, including knowing how to oil your Horizon treadmill correctly, is the best way to ensure your investment lasts for years. It’s a simple process that takes only a few minutes but saves you money and keeps your workouts running smoothly. Set a reminder on your calendar so you don’t forget this important task, and you’ll enjoy quite, consistent performance from your machine.