Few things are better for your cardio fitness than putting in some serious running miles. It's great for your overall life and your health. Runners can lower their mortality rate by upward of 30%.
It can help you get better sleep, strengthen your knees, and maintain a healthy weight and physique.
You can run rain or shine and get your workouts in by installing a treadmill in your home. You probably enjoy sweating and getting your daily runner's high but getting that electric bill each month isn't nearly as fun.
Do treadmills use a lot of electricity? In this article, we'll cover the following:
Do Treadmills Use a Lot of Electricity?
What Dictates Electricity Consumption?
How Can You Manage Your Treadmill Electricity?
Read on to learn about the energy consumption of treadmills, how it affects your electricity bill, and what you can do about it.
Yes, the average treadmill uses a fair amount of energy. Treadmills typically use between 300 watts and 900 watts of electricity after a person weighing 150 pounds runs for 3 miles at a 2% incline.
This treadmill wattage is just a few cents out of your pocket, but it can add up when multiplied by daily use. You'll save money and energy when you understand what variables affect consumption.
There are several ways to do this, and you'll want the service of a master electrician who can help.
Several issues with your treadmill will affect its electrical consumption. Many of these variables are well within your control. By getting a handle on these factors, you'll make your treadmill more energy efficient. Consider these energy-saving factors when trying to understand what causes spikes in electricity:
Start by considering the speed of your treadmill. When your treadmill is operating at high speeds, it will inevitably consume more electricity. If you are an avid runner who is constantly turning up the speed levels on your treadmill, expect to see spikes in your electric bills.
Next, consider the components of your treadmill. Motor and electrical wiring are major factors in energy usage. On average, you can expect treadmill motors to come in sizes of about 2.5 horsepower. They can also go as high as 4 horsepower. The larger the motor, the more energy it will expend. Pay attention to the motor specs as you shop for the best treadmill.
Consider the model and type of treadmill you have and how much electricity it uses. This is important whether you're currently a treadmill owner or trying to decide which type is best for you. The costs of running might add up if you purchase a treadmill model that uses a lot of electricity. Some examples of treadmill you might buy include:
Motorized models
Manual treadmills
Work desk treadmills
Hybrid treadmill models
Foldable treadmill models
Choose a model that will serve you for your operating costs. For example, manual treadmills use less electricity than others, which lets you get your running days in without spiking your bills.
The vast majority of these treadmill professionals recommend having a 20-amp dedicated circuit that you keep free. Some heavy-duty commercial models require 30 amps.
Check with your manufacturer to know for sure what kind of outlet you need. This way, you'll avoid short circuits and other electrical problems.
If your treadmill is at a steeper incline, it will also use more power. This extra use of power will make the treadmill more expensive to use and maintain. Explore the power rating of your treadmill to understand how this affects the machine. Find a model that can operate at an incline while remaining as energy efficient as possible.
The heavier the user, the more electricity consumption you can expect. Large amounts of weight exert more force on the machinery, which will trigger more electricity usage. Look into the weight requirements and limits of the treadmill and factor this in.
Treadmill running keeps you in shape as long as you stick to a consistent schedule. The more dedicated you are to your running habits, the more electricity you'll use. Factor this in when buying a machine. When you purchase a treadmill that saves energy, you can stick to your exercise routine without bumping up your bills.
There are several tips you can follow to keep your electricity costs at bay. First, study your treadmill specifications to know how much energy is expended by the kilowatt hour. This will help you know what to expect from your current model, or what to look for when purchasing a new one.
Take time to maintain and repair your treadmill so that it works as efficiently as possible. Be mindful of repairing the treadmill motor to keep your energy consumption reasonable. Lubricate the belt so that it doesn't have to work as hard when you use it.
Working with an electrician can keep the entire system up-to-date and less wasteful. They can also install new outlets and surge protectors to use with your treadmill. Parker & Sons specializes in check-ups and outlet installations that will help you.
Do treadmills use a lot of electricity? Now that you have a clearer idea of how a treadmill uses energy, take the time to hire professionals that can help you out. Take the stress out of your electric bill while still putting in those serious miles that you crave.
Parker & Sons is your go-to electrical contractor to help with maintenance, repairs and even treadmill questions. To learn more about us and the electrical services that we offer, schedule an appointment online or call us at (602)344-9027.
Stay up-to-date on current news, promotions, and industry tips.