When deciding to buy a treadmill, one decision you will have to make is what kind of motor you want. You have a choice between a DC (direct current driven) motor and an AC (alternating current) motor. Most treadmills for the home have treadmill DC motors.

Treadmill DC motors are better for home systems for a number of reasons. The DC motor is usually quieter than the AC motor. AC motors also usually require more power to run them. AC motors are usually used in commercial treadmills like those at gyms that run all day. Most people like to listen to music or watch television while walking on a treadmill, so a quieter motor will help in that aspect. A DC motor also contains fewer parts, which means less repairs and less money. DC motors start slower than AC motors and allow for a more consistent speed and incline. Most companies sell replacement treadmill DC motors if it happens to need replacing. Treadmill companies usually also offer a warranty of some kind on the motor. It is wise to get a warranty on the motor of at least 1 year. Horsepower on DC motors vary. You can purchase a treadmill with a DC motor with a horsepower of 1.5 or 2.75, depending on the strength you need. There are also other variations on horsepower for DC motors.

Deciding on the motor type and horsepower is only one decision to factor in when choosing a treadmill. Treadmills are not inexpensive and many factors should be considered when choosing one.