Buying a Treadmill Used For Sale
Many homes are equipped with treadmills as fitness equipment. Its steep price tag however, could be prohibitive for those who want to own one.
It's a good thing that you can find a top-quality used treadmill available for sale at a fraction of its retail price. Here's how.
1. Look for the warranty
A treadmill is a significant investment. It can also be very expensive to repair or replace it if it breaks down. It is essential to verify the warranty when considering used treadmills. A quality treadmill should come with at least a one-year warranty for both labor and parts. This will give you peace of mind should something go wrong with the machine. It is possible to purchase a new treadmill if the treadmill isn't covered by an warranty.
Many fitness centers or gyms offer treadmills to members who choose to upgrade their equipment or leave the club. They are also available for sale on local classifieds sites or on websites for resales online and at garages or rummage and moving sales. They are usually not easy to move, so if you see one for sale at auction or in a local retailer and it looks like the perfect fit for you, it is ideal to purchase it and have it delivered by a professional who knows how to handle the weight and size of the machine.
If you are looking for a treadmill, make sure you check the manufacturer's website. You can find the specifications of the treadmill, which include its maximum capacity. This is important as it will reveal how durable the frame and construction of the treadmill are. It is also an indicator of how the treadmill was kept in good condition.
It is important to make sure that the treadmill you're contemplating purchasing comes with a warranty that covers the motor, electronics, and the running surface. If the treadmill isn't covered by warranty, you must look into purchasing it from a retailer that has one. In this way, if something happens to the treadmill within the first few years of ownership the treadmill will be covered by the warranty.
Another option is to look at a thrift or resale store that is focused on sports equipment. While these stores might not be as abundant as treadmills at a fitness store however, they usually offer better deals on used equipment. These locations can also be a good place to find gently used treadmills in good condition.
2. Check the condition
The main reason people opt to buy an old treadmill is to save money. Don't be frightened of purchasing a treadmill that may not function properly or at all. It's not uncommon to see (or get service calls from) people who purchase the "good bargain" at a garage or online auction, only to have it shut down, overheat or stop working entirely.
You can prevent this from happening by being very thorough when inspecting the treadmill in person. If you're buying from an online retailer, they might be able to arrange delivery for you or offer the option of returning the item. This could help you save time and stress. However, if you're dealing private sellers, this isn't always easy. If the equipment won't fit into your vehicle you'll have to rent the truck. Or ask some friends who can help.
Examine the condition of the belt and motor when you check your treadmill. Be aware of any levers, buttons or touchscreen areas. Older treadmills usually have "resistive touchscreens that be damaged by frequent use, while newer treadmills have 'capacitive' touchscreens which are less likely to degrade.
Examine the deck too. If you notice scratches or scoring, raised areas or blistering, it's time to replace the belt and deck.
It is also important to examine the motor for vibration and excessive noise. A motor that is noisy could be a sign of a bearing issue that can be costly to fix or replace.
The last thing to do is examine the settings for speed and incline to make sure they are working as intended. A well-designed incline setting can really test your muscles and help you reach your fitness goals more quickly. A speed setting that is quick can also stop you from getting bored and push you beyond your limits. If they're not working correctly, you could be wasting money or, worse, causing injury to yourself.
3. Ask Questions
If you're purchasing an old treadmill at a second-hand sports store or from an individual seller, it pays to inquire a lot. The more you know about the background of the machine, the better your chances of getting a great deal and avoiding any future issues.
Find out the history of the service of the treadmill including any mechanical issues and the amount it has been used. You can also read online reviews to see what others have said about the performance and quality of the treadmill. This will help you determine whether the machine is worth your investment.
Another important factor is to inquire about the age of the treadmill. It is best to stick with machines that are less than five years old. This gives you the best chance of finding replacement parts in the event of need.
treadmills sale is also important to find out how long the current owner has used the machine and the reason they're selling it. If they've only used it a few times a week for an hour, then the treadmill might still have plenty of life in it. However, if the treadmill has been used almost every day for the last six years, you may be better off searching for a different one.
Once you're all set, hop on the machine and take 10 to 20 minutes for a ride. Pay attention to any jerking or grinding noises, which could indicate problems. If the machine is operating correctly, it will operate smoothly and quietly. This makes your workout enjoyable and thrilling.
Try out all the features of the console. You'll be staring at your screen for a long period of time, so you want it to be simple to read and navigate. Take note of any extras that come with the treadmill, like heart rate monitoring and built-in fitness programs.
Then, ask the seller or retailer about the return policy and the warranty for the treadmill. This will help you determine whether it's worth the money and will provide assurance in the event that something happens to your new purchase.
4. Make the Offer
The purchase of a treadmill can be costly but it doesn't need to be. You can find a decent used treadmill for less if you take your time and keep your expectations in check. It might not be as efficient or stylish but it will help you achieve your fitness goals.
Check the warranty of the manufacturer and any included repairs or replacements while shopping for an used treadmill. A lot of manufacturers offer a lifetime frame warranty, as well as at least a 5-year guarantee on the motor and electronics. This gives an accurate indicator of the quality of a treadmill.
Asking about the background of a treadmill is another good idea to ask. If the seller is the original owner of the treadmill, they might have kept receipts from any repairs or maintenance made to the treadmill. This will give you a better idea of how well the treadmill is being taken care of and will reveal whether or not it has any remaining life.
When you are making an offer, you must also consider the amount of workouts the treadmill has endured. If the treadmill was heavily used by someone who loved doing HIIT workouts the incline feature could be diminished. If the treadmill is used by a person who presses buttons or levers frequently the features could wear out faster than if they weren't used regularly.
It's also a good idea test the treadmill first before making your final decision. This is particularly true when you purchase from a private seller and will need to take it home yourself. You don't want it home and discover that it's not running the way you want it to or that the dimensions of the machine are too small for your space. If you purchase from an online retailer, they will likely arrange for delivery or let you test the treadmill at their store.