“Out of service” signs are bad for business. Ultimately, you are responsible for keeping your equipment in proper working order and providing a safe environment. Routine preventive maintenance minimizes down time, extends equipment life and reduces your possible liability. You save money on parts and repairs and keep your clients happy.

“Cleanliness and lubrication are perhaps the two most important factors in equipment maintenance and longevity,” reports Brad Schupp, SPORTSMITH president. “Whether you have a few pieces of equipment or a hundred, following manufacturer guidelines for service, cleaning and lubrication optimizes equipment performance and significantly extend its useful life.” Perspiration is a major corrosive force, so constant attention is required to minimize damage. Your equipment should be cleaned after each use with an anti-bacterial cleanser, especially those parts in contact with exercisers (grips, seats, pads and consoles). If you make the cleanser and towels available many exercisers will clean as courtesy to the next user. Be sure to read cleanser labels thoroughly and consult equipment operations manuals to avoid any harmful materials.

“It is wise to establish a daily cleaning routine backed by a weekly and monthly maintenance schedule. Create an inspection checklist numbering each piece of equipment to keep an accurate log,” says Schupp. “Cardiovascular equipment requires more frequent maintenance, especially indoor group exercise cycles and treadmills. All your indoor cycles should be tuned on a weekly basis to assure optimum and uniform performance. Worn grips, seats and pedals should be replaced immediately.”

Regular inspections help prevent damage to equipment drive systems and electronics, which are the most costly items to repair. To reduce downtime it is wise to stock OEM-quality replacement parts for the most common repairs. Depending on your equipment, these include belts, chains, pedal straps, strength cables and pulleys, pads and grips. Although cardiovascular equipment requires the most attention, be sure to keep your strength equipment guide rises lubricated and replace pulleys and cables at the first signs of wear.