Top Tips to Keep Your Elliptical Machine in Tip Top Shape
So you compared treadmills vs ellipticals and settled on getting an elliptical machine! But what do you do next? How to maintain the machine for years of worry-free use?
Like any investment, you want to take care of that product and make sure you get the most out of its entire lifetime. Gym equipment is no different, but is something that is most likely going to be used quite often. In order to ensure a smooth operation and functionality, it’s important to take care of your gym equipment. An elliptical made from the likes of Life Fitness, True, Precor, Vision, and Octane will usually not give you any problems. But staying proactive never hurt.
Cleaning Techniques
One of the first pieces of advice you’ll get before you even begin to clean the elliptical is where to place it. The trainer should be placed in a dry and cool environment. While you do your daily or weekly cleanings, make sure to clean the areas that come into contact with your feet and hands. There can be a lot of buildup in these areas if not properly checked and cleaned.
Wipe with a proper rag and cleaning detergent. Look at the display console to make sure it’s free of fingerprints and any build up of oils and dirt. You’ll be sweating a lot on this machine and want to keep the digital stuff clean too. Always use a clean cloth for this area and look for any scratched damage on the display as well.
Maintenance Checks
Every week on top of your cleaning regimen, check the accessory tray and bottle storage to inspect for damage. You should clean the frame on a weekly and monthly basis as this can build up with residue if left unchecked for weeks or months. Make sure the plastic covers and trim pieces haven’t developed any cracks in them either.
If you do find any damage, always put off all repairs to authorized service technicians as they’ll have the correct replacement parts and know how to service that exact machine.
If you’re in the business of finding a replacement or buying a new elliptical , look no further then here for quality reviews and certified equipment. Different machines offer varying types of resistance and skill levels in regards to training.
Typical Mechanical Problems
Some concerns you may run across on an elliptical cross trainer include misalignment and failure of certain parts. The more moving parts that are involved in a machine, the more likely a complication can get in the future. Misalignment and failure of moving parts can sometimes be separate issues or go hand and hand together. Moving parts need to be aligned correctly to function. They also need to have adequate lubrication, friction balanced and free of any obstructions.
Loud noise coming from the machine can usually be sourced back to the previous problems. Look into any broken or bent bolts that may contribute to a misaligned plastic housing.
These sounds and defects can differ from more important problems. If the incline motor that is responsible for the functioning of varying difficulty degrees fail, then that will warrant a visit from the technician right away. Smooth operations won’t run correctly either if the wheels are damaged in some way. Elliptical may look simple, but they have pulleys, levers, drive pelts and electrical components that all work in tandem together to push forward and backwards. If any of these become loose or disconnect from another, they can aid in derailment.
Technician’s Fix
If any component of an elliptical fails there is the strong possibility that the machine will stop working or become uncomfortable to use. Instead of letting the problem fester, it’s best to see what you can do with a technician.
Only authorized certified users should be able to service your elliptical machine. In order to keep up with a warranty it’s stated that owners of the machine should only provide general maintenance and cleaning as mentioned earlier. Replacing any parts that include, drive belts, internal electronics, motors, display consoles or other parts of the machine must be done through only technicians.
If there is anything simple you can fix, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do so. In order to know what you can, make sure to read the manual all the way through. If you fail to fix the machine correctly or misuse indoor ellipticals it can result in voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.
By using these simple cleaning tips and checking out the machine on a scheduled basis can help avoid any major problems. For the most part users can be sure their machine will work and be covered for many years.