Buying a Treadmill Used For Sale
Many homes are equipped with treadmills as a piece of fitness equipment. Its steep price tag, however, can be prohibitive for people who want to own one.
Thankfully, you can get an excellent used treadmill available for sale at just a fraction of the retail value. Here's how.
1. Look for Warranty
A treadmill is an important investment. Repairing or replacing a treadmill could be costly. This is why it's important to look for an assurance on any used treadmill you're considering. A good treadmill should come with at least a one-year guarantee for parts and labor. This will give you peace of mind in case something goes wrong with the machine. You might want to buy a new treadmill in the event that the machine doesn't have an warranty.
Many fitness centers and gyms sell their treadmills when members decide to upgrade or leave the club. They are also for auction in local classifieds, online websites for resales, as well as at garage sales or rummage sales. Treadmills are generally not easy to move If you find one for sale at auction or in a local store and it appears to be the right fit for you, it's best to buy it then and have it delivered by a professional who is able to manage the weight and size of the machine.
Be sure to check the website of the manufacturer before looking for a new treadmill. You can find the specifications of the treadmill, including its maximum weight capacity. This is important, as it will tell you the strength of the frame and its construction. It is also an excellent indicator of how well the treadmill was maintained.
It is important to make sure that the treadmill you are considering has an insurance policy that covers the motor, the electronics and the running surface. If the treadmill doesn't come with an assurance, it's worth considering purchasing it from a store that offers one. This way, if something happens to the treadmill within the first few years of ownership you'll be covered under the warranty.
Another option is to look at a thrift store or resale shop that is specialized in sporting equipment. These stores may not have the same number of treadmills as fitness stores, however they typically offer cheaper prices on used equipment. They can also be an excellent source for treadmills that are lightly used, but are still in good condition.
2. Verify the Condition
The primary reason why people decide to buy an old treadmill is to save money. You shouldn't be scared into purchasing a treadmill that may not work properly or at all. It's not uncommon to read posts (or receive service calls) from buyers of used treadmills who bought a "good deal" at an auction or garage sale auction only to see the treadmill stop working when they use it and overheat, cause damage to circuits or shut down entirely.
Make sure you inspect the treadmill thoroughly in the person. You might be able to arrange delivery or a return policy in the event that you purchase from an online retailer. This could save you a lot of hassle. If you're dealing directly with the seller, it can be a bit challenging. If the item isn't going to fit into your car, you'll need to rent the truck. Ask your friends who can help.
While inspecting the treadmill be sure to check the condition of the belt and motor. Also pay attention to any functional buttons, levers or touchscreens. The older treadmills usually have'resistive touchscreens' that can wear out due to regular use. Newer treadmills, however, have 'capacitive touchscreens that are less likely to decline.
Make sure the deck is in good shape as well. Replace cheap treadmills and deck if you feel any raised sections, blisters, or scratches.
You should also check for excessive noise and vibration. A motor that is noisy could be a sign of a bearing issue that can be costly to fix or replace.
Also, check the speed and incline settings to be sure they work according to plan. An incline that is properly set can really challenge your muscles and help you meet your fitness goals quicker. Similar to the speed setting, which can keep you from getting bored when working out and push you to your limits. If they're not working correctly, you could end up wasting money and, even more importantly harming yourself.
3. Ask Questions
If you're purchasing an old treadmill at a second-hand sports store or from an individual seller, you should ask a lot of questions. The more you know about the background of the machine, the better your chances of getting a bargain and avoiding any future problems.
Begin by asking questions about the treadmill's service history which includes any mechanical issues and how long the owner has used it. You can also look up online reviews to find out what others have to say about the quality and performance of the machine. This will help you determine if it is worth the investment.
Another crucial aspect is to ask about the age of the treadmill. It is best to stick with treadmills that are less than five years old. This gives you the best chance of finding replacement parts if necessary.
Ask the owner how often they have used the treadmill and the reasons for selling it. If the treadmill has been used for a couple of hours per week, it might be in good working order. However, if the treadmill has been used nearly every day over the past six years, you may be better off looking elsewhere.
When you're ready, hop onto the machine and enjoy an hour to 20 minutes ride. Be aware of any grinding or jerking sounds, as these could indicate that something isn't right. If the machine is functioning correctly, it will move smoothly and quietly. This makes your workout enjoyable and thrilling.
Check out all the console features. You'll be looking at your screen for a long time and you'll want it to be easy to navigate and read. Also, keep track of any additional features that are included with the treadmill, for instance heart rate monitors and built-in workout programs.
Also, inquire with the retailer or seller about the return policy and the warranty for the treadmill. This will help you decide if it's worth the investment and will give you peace of mind in case anything happens to your new purchase.
4. Make the Offer
A treadmill purchase can be costly, but it doesn't have to be. You can get a good used treadmill for a lot less money if you do your homework and keep expectations in the balance. It may not be as fast or sleek however, it can aid you in reaching your fitness goals.
If you're looking to purchase a secondhand treadmill, you should look at the manufacturer warranty and ask about any replacement or repairs that are included. Many manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty for the frame and at least a five-year guarantee on the motors and electronics. This gives a good indication of the quality of treadmills.
Inquiring about the history of a treadmill is also a good idea to ask. If the seller was the original owner, it's probable that they kept receipts for any maintenance or repair work that was done on the machine. This will give a clear idea of how the treadmill was maintained and if it has a life.
Another thing to consider when negotiating an offer for a treadmill is the number of workouts the treadmill has gone through. If the treadmill was frequently used by a person who is a fan of HIIT exercises, then the incline feature could be worn out. If the treadmill is used by someone who pushes buttons or levers constantly the features could be worn out more quickly than if they were not used as often.
Finally, it's a good idea to test the treadmill prior to making your final purchase. This is especially important in the case of a private seller and be required to transport it home yourself. You don't want to bring it home and find out that it isn't running as you need it to, or that the dimensions of the machine are too small for the space you have. If you purchase from an online retailer, they will likely arrange delivery or let you test the treadmill in-store.