How Much Electricity Does a Treadmill Use?

by Lester Shi on December 16, 2024

Having a treadmill at home can deliver some huge benefits for your personal fitness. It makes it easier to build a daily exercise routine, you can work out on your own time and you can save money in the long run on gym fees.

But one important consideration you might have is the electricity usage of your home treadmill. These days, we're more conscious than ever about the cost of living and how small changes can affect the overall cost of running our households.

While the electricity usage of your treadmill can vary greatly based on motor power, speed, incline settings, user weight and workout duration, we're here to give you the run down on how you can calculate your machine's energy load. Understanding this will help you make better decisions about your home workout, getting all the benefits of treadmill exercise without worrying about your power bill.

Factors Affecting Treadmill Electricity Usage

Motor Power and Energy Efficiency

The treadmill's motor power is a major determinant of its energy consumption. Motor power is usually measured by Continuous Horsepower (CHP). Generally, a higher-powered motor, like those above 3.0 CHP, will consume more electricity than lower-powered models. However, some motors are more energy-efficient than others, so the CHP isn't the full story. Some motors, such as those with a brushless design, require less energy than traditional motors to reduce overall electricity usage while still providing a smooth workout experience.

Speed and Incline Settings

Increasing the treadmill's speed or incline requires more power, resulting in higher energy usage. Intense workout settings push the motor harder, causing it to consume more electricity compared to walking or light jogging.

User Weight and Workout Duration

The amount of weight on the treadmill (whether from the user or by adding additional weights) will also influence power consumption, as this requires the motor to work harder. Longer workouts increase electricity usage as well, meaning frequent or extended sessions can lead to higher energy costs over time.

How to Calculate Treadmill Energy Consumption (kWh)

To calculate your treadmill's energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh), use this simple formula:

Wattage (W) x Hours of Use (H) / 1000 = kWh

This calculation allows you to estimate monthly electricity costs based on your treadmill's power usage and your workout habits.

Real-Life Examples of Treadmill Power Usage

For instance, if a treadmill uses 650 watts and you work out for an hour daily, your monthly consumption would be approximately 19.5 kWh (650W x 30 hours / 1000). This varies based on model and settings but provides a general sense of energy costs.

Tips to Reduce Treadmill Electricity Usage

Use these practical tips to lower your treadmill's energy consumption and reduce electricity costs.

Choose Energy-Efficient Treadmills

Look for treadmills with brushless motors or Energy Star certifications. Brushless motors have fewer moving parts, requiring less energy to run. These models are designed to consume less electricity without compromising performance, offering long-term savings on energy bills.

Maintenance and Proper Usage

Regular maintenance, like lubricating the running belt and cleaning components, helps the motor run efficiently and reduces unnecessary energy consumption. Keeping your treadmill well-maintained can optimise its power usage.

Unplug When Not in Use

Unplugging the treadmill when you're not using it prevents phantom electricity draw. Many appliances continue to consume small amounts of power even when switched off, so unplugging can save on electricity costs.

Run at Lower Speeds for Light Workouts

Setting lower speeds and inclines for light workouts conserves energy and reduces electricity usage. Walking or light jogging can still provide a good workout without putting excessive demand on the motor.

Are Manual Treadmills a Better Option for Energy Savings?

For those who really want to prioritise energy savings, manual treadmills are a great option to look at. These treadmills rely entirely on the user's own movement, requiring no electricity to operate. Manual treadmills are ideal for those seeking a low-impact workout and minimal energy costs.

FAQ's

Does running at higher speeds increase electricity consumption?

Yes, running at higher speeds requires the motor to work harder, consuming more electricity.

What type of treadmill is best for energy savings?

Energy-efficient models with brushless motors or low-power certifications are ideal for energy savings. Manual treadmills are also a great zero-energy option.