A walking pad is a low-profile, portable treadmill designed primarily for walking while working or during light exercise. Proper maintenance is necessary to ensure the machine functions correctly and safely. Lubrication is a routine step that significantly reduces friction between the walking belt and the deck beneath it. Minimizing this resistance reduces strain on the motor, preventing overheating and premature failure, which prolongs the machine’s life.
Why and When to Lubricate
Friction between the belt and the deck generates heat, which can lead to the degradation of the belt material and the walking deck. Regular lubrication introduces a protective layer that absorbs this friction, preventing heat buildup and maintaining smooth belt movement. Most manufacturers recommend lubricating based on usage hours or distance, typically every 40 to 50 hours of use or every three to six months, depending on intensity.
You can check if the machine requires oiling by unplugging the unit and sliding your hand underneath the belt in the center of the deck. If the deck feels dry, rough, or powdery, the lubricant has worn away and needs immediate replenishment. Increased noise, noticeable motor effort, or a jerky feeling while walking are also indicators of excessive friction.
Essential Supplies and Preparation
The only appropriate lubricant for nearly all walking pads is 100% silicone-based treadmill oil. Petroleum-based oils, such as WD-40 or similar household lubricants, should never be used, as they can cause the belt to degrade, swell, or crack, leading to significant damage to the machine. A proper lubrication kit often includes silicone oil and an applicator nozzle or wand to help reach the center of the deck.
Before starting the process, the walking pad must be powered off and completely unplugged from the wall outlet. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe away any visible dust, debris, or old lubricant residue from the belt and the edges of the deck. Cleaning the surface first ensures the new oil adheres properly and does not trap abrasive particles against the deck.
Applying the Lubricant
The application process requires careful placement of the lubricant in the center of the walking deck, where the greatest friction occurs. First, safely gain access to the deck surface by lifting the belt along one side. If your unit lacks a designated loosening mechanism, gently pinch and pull the belt upward with one hand, or use a thin, non-scratching tool to lift it slightly.
Using the applicator nozzle, apply the silicone oil in a narrow line or a shallow zigzag pattern across the width of the deck, working from front to rear. Apply the oil in the central area where your feet land, typically about 6 to 8 inches in from the edges. While the manufacturer’s manual specifies the exact amount, a common measure is approximately 1 to 2 ounces, or 5 to 10 milliliters, per session.
After applying oil to one side, move to the opposite side of the walking pad and repeat the process to ensure full coverage across the walking area. This ensures an even distribution across the deck, which is necessary for smooth operation. Avoid over-lubricating; excessive oil can leak out, attract dirt, and potentially cause the belt to slip.
Post-Oiling Procedures and Checks
Once the silicone oil has been applied, evenly distribute it across the entire contact surface. Plug the walking pad back in, turn it on, and operate it at a slow speed (typically 1 to 3 miles per hour) for at least one minute. Afterward, step onto the pad and walk gently for two to three minutes to help press the oil into the deck and belt fibers.
If excess oil is visible along the edges of the belt or leaking onto the floor, carefully wipe it away with a clean cloth. This excess oil only attracts dust and does not contribute to the necessary friction reduction. Finally, check the belt tension, as application may cause a slight shift in alignment. If the belt feels loose or slips during walking, a minor adjustment to the tension bolts at the rear of the unit may be necessary for smooth and safe use.