Let’s be honest, a treadmill is no small financial investment. You are going to want to know not just how much the treadmill will cost upfront, but also the estimated yearly maintenance, and the impact on your monthly electricity bill.
The energy consumption of your treadmill depends on a variety of factors like motor size, overall power output, and how long and intensely you use it.
For example, just because your treadmill may have a maximum of 3.5 horsepower does not mean you will always be using it at its max.
Many people prefer to walk steadily at a medium to low incline, which will use significantly less power to run than at max speed and incline.
By those standards, it feels like there is no real way to decipher a true edge in energy efficiency for any treadmills. This is somewhat true, but there are also some options that may hit your electric bill less than others. Let’s take a look!
8 Energy Efficient Treadmills (That Don't Use A lot of Electricity)
This article will discuss 8 of the most energy-efficient treadmills that you can find on the market today.
Here is our favorite - the best value!
- 30-Day Ifit Membership Included; Stream Live & On-Demand Workouts On Your Equipment With Global Workouts & Studio Classes; Elite Trainers Adjust Your Equipment (15 Dollar Value)
- 10% Onetouch Incline Control; 10 Mph Smart Onetouch Speed Control; With Ifit, Your Trainer Auto-Adjusts Your Speed And Incline Through A Smart Bluetooth Connection
- Smart-Response Motor For Effective Speed, Interval, And Endurance Training; 20" X 55" Tread Belt Offers Plenty Of Leg And Elbow Space As You Run; Flexselect Deck Cushioning Protects Your Joints
Watts (Energy Measurement)
Before wide dive into our top 8 picks, let’s take a quick look at how we actually measure energy consumption in our appliances.
Watts are how we measure the consumption of energy for pretty much all of our household electrical items from the microwave, to you guessed it, a treadmill.
To see the safe upper limit of watts for each of your appliances you can pretty much just check the owner’s manual.
Calculating the total watts of your treadmill is actually pretty easy if you have 15 extra minutes, the equation is simply: watts = amps x volts.
Manual Treadmills
The word manual may sound like a lot of work, but this is a subcategory of treadmills that have been getting quite popular over the past couple of years for their low energy consumption.
Essentially, the belt only moves while you walk or run on in. This momentum drives the movement and it pretty much powers itself.
Most of these models do still come with a small monitor, and that may still use an electrical cable, but the power usage goes way down.
Some even have manually adjusted incline options, so there is quite a bit of versatility here if you are willing to look past the non-traditional aspect of these.
Don’t be surprised if you see some of these treadmills on our following list.
Speaking of that list, with all of the boring stuff out of the way let’s take a look at some of the most energy-efficient treadmills.
8 Energy Efficient Treadmills
1. Assault Fitness AirRunner
If you are looking for a full power manual treadmill that provides all of the same performance as a normal motorized belt, then look no further than the Assault Fitness AirRunner.
Built to run off of the power you put into it alone, this treadmill will really lower your energy bill because it boasts ZERO electrical consumption.
On top of the zero electrical consumption, you can also get a super versatile workout, as you can do an easy walk all the way up to some intense interval training.
Unlike all motorized treadmills, this one has no maximum speed, so you are quite literally only limited by what you can do.
Furthermore, it’s only 280 pounds, has a 33" width, and a total weight capacity of 350 pounds. Total dimensions are: 69.9" L x 32.8" W x 64" H.
- Like running on air burns up to 30% more calories than a motorized treadmill
- Dimensions: 69.9" L x 32.8" W x 64" H | Weight: 280 lb
- Max User Weight: 350 lb
2. CITYSPORTS Portable Treadmill
If you are looking for something low volume as well as low impact, then you are going to enjoy the CITYSPORTS Portable Treadmill. This little thing actually packs a punch for being so small and energy-efficient.
It has a max speed of 4 mph, which will get you a plenty good workout without sucking up too much electricity to run. Then once you’re completed you can easily store this item way under a bed or couch.
It has been made with the extension of being cost-effective, energy-saving, and environmentally protective to run.
This also happens to be good for sound too, as this treadmill is pretty quiet in comparison to some bigger more standard models. If you live in a place with quiet hours this might be a good option to try!
The treadmill only totals 60 pounds, with dimensions of 52.8 x 23.2 x 4.9 inches, and a weight capacity of up to 265 lb.
- REDEFINED WHISPER QUIET TREADMILLS FOR HOME: Revolutionary Cost-Effective, Energy Saving and Environmental Protection, only cost less 10 cent/d. Unique powerful mute motor. From novice to veteran can use in multi-scenes, enhancing physical, emotional health.
- STURDY DURABLE & MAX SECURITY: Walking pad owns unibody Aerospace-Grade magnesium-aluminum alloy frame, meaning carry greater load upto 265 lb. Under desk treadmill equiping low profile deck for easy get on or down and wider side standing harness maximizes safety.
- INNOVATIVE SMART WALKIBG MACHINE: What a amazing treadmill, sleek & slim design. Bright backlit Dual LED display, Controlled by handeld wireless remote cotroller, equipped Surround Stereo Bluetooth Integrated Speakers, Full of technology and fashion.
3. AW Folding Electric Treadmill
Providing a compact, low-profile frame and motor, the AW Folding Electric Treadmill is a suitable option for those seeking an energy-efficient treadmill.
Using only 1100 watts, you can use this treadmill knowing you’re not going to break the bank with the electric bill.
It is also offered at just such an affordable base price that it’s hard to feel like there is a downside if space and energy efficiency is your highest priority.
It will also be very quiet, which is always a plus if you live in a place with a partner, children, or grouchy neighbors.
Because it is small and energy-efficient, you are going to get less performance out of it with only a max speed of 6 mph, but that is still enough to provide a good workout for most and it saves on so many other fronts.
The weight capacity is 220 pounds, with dimensions of 51"L x 22"W x 49.6"H and a total weight of 56 pounds.
- [Various Exercise Options & Easy to Use]: 3 built-in auto modes, 2 fixed incline degrees & 0.5 to 6.5 mph speed range could meet your different need of running, jogging, walking or other exercises to effectively achieve your goal; Quickly adjusting modes & speed by buttons on control panel without complex setting steps
- [LCD Display & Handrail Sensor]: LCD display clearly shows distance, time, calories burned, speed & heart rate, tracking your performance for effective workout routine based on your real-time data; Pulse and heart rate sensor for monitoring your current physical condition
- [Foldable & Space Saving]: Treadmill can be folded uprightly for easy storage against the wall with compact size of 20 7/8"x24"x50 3/8" and light weight, saving your space; Transport wheels bring convenience during moving treadmill after use
4. GOPLUS Ultra-Thin Electric Folding Treadmill
Built with a modern and sleek frame, the GOPLUS Ultra-Thin Electric Folding Treadmill provides a low impact and quiet workout for those who are space and energy conscious.
The motor is quiet but also powerful, providing a 450W motor that delivers speed from 0.5–5 mph, which is not ideal, but it is in the range of the treadmill we have been looking at between 4-6 mph is a standard for a lower profile, energy saving treadmills.
Furthermore, this treadmill has a quality anti-skid rubber surface belt that will provide excellent grip and punch above its weight class in durability.
Under this belt are six shock-absorbers for springy feeling. Overall this one checks all of the boxes and provides a reliable workout without tearing money from your bank account.
It has a maximum user capacity of 220 pounds, product dimensions are 52"x 26"x 47.5", and the total weight is 61 pounds.
- 【Ultra-thin Foldable Design】 The compact, ultra-thin and lightweight design makes this Superfit treadmill easy to fold, carry and store. Two built-in wheels facilitate transport from rooms to rooms. When you don't use it, you can put it in the corner of the room or under the bed to save space.
- 【Easily Have a Healthy Body】Our Superfit treadmill is perfect for walking, jogging and running at home or office with its versatile fitness modes. You can use it for cardio training, weight loss, muscle toning and personal trainer workouts. Besides, the holder for a tablet PC and mobile phone allow you exercise with amusement.
- 【LED Display & Versatile Modes】An easy-to-operate LED display helps you monitor your exercise data for efficient workout routine. Selectable Time/ Distance/Calorie countdown modes help you achieve various training goals. Built-in P1-P12 speed modes are set for different challenging workout.
5. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M
Looking for an ultra-compact, lightweight, manual treadmill? Look no more, because the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M is going to be perfect for you.
The SF-T1407M is set at a slight incline so you can get on, start moving, and then momentum will work with you to manually make the belt move forward.
You probably will not be breaking any records on this little thing, but it sure will provide a workout while saving on space, weight, and money!
The neatest part is that there is still an LCD monitor, which allows you to create goal-specific workouts, track time, speed, distance, calories burned.
The little 'scan' option that this treadmill provides is convenient, as you can scan through your performance data without lifting a finger!
The max user capacity is 220 pounds, the product dimensions are 49L X 23W X 50H inches, and the total weight is a whopping 46 pounds. Very lightweight!
- Excellent Cardio Benefits: This Affordable Treadmill Will Help You Start Your Fitness Journey. Walking Can Significantly Improve Mental And Physical Health. The Compact Design Of The Treadmill Will Get You Into Shape Regardless Of Home Size.
- Compact And Ergonomic: This Compact, Lightweight Treadmill Is Excellent For Small Spaces. Running Surface: 42In X 13In. The Treadmill Is Durable And Can Withstand Power Walking Or Light Jogging.
- Lcd Monitor: Track Fitness Progress On The Easy To Read Digital Monitor. Treadmill Monitor Displays Time, Speed, Distance, Calories.
6. MaxKare 2.5HP Treadmill
If you are looking for a treadmill that saves on energy but still offers some more traditional amenities, then the MaxKare 2.5HP Treadmill is a solid option to take a look at.
With a 2.5HP engine you can get up to a max speed of 8.5 mph, but considering most will not go this fast you will be using considerably lower amounts of electricity. This will save you plenty of money, but also offer you the option to go fast when you feel like it.
Because you do get to plug this one in with an electrical core, the LCD display is slightly larger than the smaller options and also includes 15 pre-set programs.
It also gives you the option to monitor real-time data for each exercise, including all the standard metrics of speed, time, calories, distance, and heart rate.
For all the hype I’ve spread around to the little manual treadmills, you’re getting a good bang for your electrical buck with this treadmill.
The max user capacity is 220 pounds, product dimensions are 53.39” x 26.18” x 45.95”, and the product’s weight is 91 pounds.
- A Wider & Longer Path than Other Treadmills with Extra Running Freedom : UREVO foldi 1 treadmill comes with a 16.5”x 45.7’’ running surface, you have extra room for your elbow and bigger strides, so that you can run more freely with nothing holding you back.
- Compact Design for Easier Storage : Say goodbye to your old traditional treadmill take up space, Our Foldi 1 folding treadmill can be easily folded up to a 55.2"x27.8"x 5.1" size and stored under your couch.
- A Powerful Motor Offers Higher Apeed : 2.5 peak HP motor provides speeds up to 7.5 MPH which guarantees the stable operation of the machine with 260lbs weight capacity.Our anti-slip and cushioned belt gives extra support to your knees and joints.
7. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515
Coming in with a slightly sturdier frame and belt, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 is going to be a great lower-profile and energy-efficient treadmill that provides just a little greater durability value than most others on this list.
The SF-T7515 treadmill is an electrical model, but it only has a max power output of 2.2HP, which gets you up to 8mph. This won’t be eating up the electricity bill for standard users.
It’s a good choice for those who are seeking a traditional style treadmill with 12 programs, an LCD monitor to track all the regular features, and an automatic incline adjuster with 12 different levels.
As I mentioned earlier, the frame is a little stronger than most others on this list. Supporting up to 240 pounds.
The product dimensions are 64.5 x 28 x 50.5 inches and the total weight is 121 pounds.
- Quick Button Auto Incline
- 12 levels of incline: 0% to 12% incline
- 3 countdown modes: Time, Speed and Calories
- Speed Range: 1 - 8 miles per hour
- Integrated Body Mass Index Calculator - Reference Only
8. NordicTrack T 6.5 S
Rounding out the list is the NordicTrack T 6.5 S. This one is our favorite as it has a ton of features, it is highly rated and is a fair price. If you would like the full review, you can check it out here.
We have been moving up into more sturdy treadmills that get closer to the industry standard, and the T 6.5 S meets or exceeds those standards in most areas.
With speeds up to 10 mph, 10% adjustable incline, a built-in speaker system, and a clear iFit screen display you are getting a lot of great amenities for the amount of money you pay.
It will be using up some more energy than others on the list, but it should still keep costs relatively low and provide a great amount of user satisfaction.
Although it’s a little heavier, bulkier, and less energy-efficient, it probably provides the highest all-around build quality of all the treadmills on this list. It’s definitely worth taking a look at if you want all the bells and whistles.
The maximum user weight is 300 pounds, product dimensions are 73 x 35.8 x 67.5 inches, and the item’s weight is 203 pounds. Making it one of the lightest treadmills. - 30-Day Ifit Membership Included; Stream Live & On-Demand Workouts On Your Equipment With Global Workouts & Studio Classes; Elite Trainers Adjust Your Equipment (15 Dollar Value)
- 10% Onetouch Incline Control; 10 Mph Smart Onetouch Speed Control; With Ifit, Your Trainer Auto-Adjusts Your Speed And Incline Through A Smart Bluetooth Connection
- Smart-Response Motor For Effective Speed, Interval, And Endurance Training; 20" X 55" Tread Belt Offers Plenty Of Leg And Elbow Space As You Run; Flexselect Deck Cushioning Protects Your Joints
- Innovative Spacesaver Design With Easylift Assist Means Your Treadmill Can Fold Up After Your Run For Compact, Simple Storage; Auxiliary Music Port And Dual 2-Inch Speakers Provide Entertainment
- 300-Pound User Capacity; Protected With A 10-Year Frame Assurance, 2-Year Parts Assurance, And 1-Year Labor Assurance; 54" H X 36" W X 73.5" L
Conclusion
There you have it! A list that provides a wide spectrum of energy-efficient treadmills that meet the needs of anyone from small and compact, to industry-standard performance, all while providing something that will go easier on the environment and your bank account!
Last update on 2023-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API