Rower Maintenance: Keep Your Rowing Machine Happy (and Yourself Too!)

May 30, 2025 By Clark Stevenson

Hey there, fellow rower! You know that amazing feeling of gliding through a cardio workout on your rowing machine? Well, that smooth ride isn't just magic. Just like your car or even your favorite running shoes, your rower has moving parts, tension systems, and electronics that thrive on a bit of attention.

Without proper upkeep, you might start noticing some annoying issues, like:

That resistance feeling a bit off
A squeaky, noisy glide rail or roller
A flickering or blank monitor display
Belts and/or cords wearing out way too fast

But don't worry! We're here to help you keep your rowing machine in tip-top shape. Let's dive in!

1. Wipe It Down After Every Single Use

Think of sweat as your rower's archenemy. It's corrosive and can lead to bacteria buildup. After each workout, wipe down the seat, rail, handle, and monitor.

Pro Tip: Use a 50/50 mix of water and vinegar, or a non-abrasive fitness spray.

2. Show the Glide Rail Some Love (Clean & Lube!)

Weekly: Wipe the rail with a dry cloth.
Monthly: Lubricate with a silicone-based lubricant, if recommended.

Important: Avoid WD-40 unless your manual allows it.

Shop Rowing Machine Lubricants

3. Give Those Screws and Bolts a Hug (a.k.a Tighten Them Up!)

Vibrations from rowing can loosen parts. Take time to:

Snug the seat bracket
Check all bolts and fasteners
Inspect handle and rail supports

4. Don't Forget the Pull Cord or Chain

Depending on your model:

For chains: Wipe and oil them.
For cords: Watch for fraying or stretching.

Order Replacement Rower Cords or Chains

5. Keep Your Console Happy and Bright

Change batteries every 6–12 months
Clean contact points with rubbing alcohol
Check for internal moisture

Bonus: Schedule a Deep Dive Every 6 Months

Remove shrouds if allowed
Vacuum inside the frame
Inspect the belt and flywheel tension

Final Thoughts: Smooth Workouts Start with Simple Habits

Clean after every use
Lube the glide rail
Inspect cords and hardware
Tighten loose bolts
Replace console batteries

Need help finding parts? We're here for you!

About the author

Admin

Clark Stevenson

Clark, with his MBA from the University of Memphis, along with his brother & CEO, established Treadmill Doctor in 1998 as a leading fitness equipment services company that specializes in the parts, repair, and maintenance of both residential and commercial units. It is included in the Inc5000® fastest growing companies in the United States.

Not a doctor (even though his mom loves to brag otherwise); Clark really did start out by using a stethoscope to diagnose faults with treadmills which gave birth to the company name. Over the years though, they've certainly earned their specialties in "elliptretics" and "treadmllology".