Precor Error Code 29 Excessive AC Input Current

Mar 03, 2022

Applies to Commercial treadmills built after 2006 and before 2014.

Overview

Error codes 27, 28, and 29 overview, see 27, 28, 29 Overview

Issue symptoms (Error 29)

If the AC input current reaches a value over 20 amps or there is an AC current spike of 65 amps, the drive motor system will shut down and an Error 29 will be logged.

Possible causes

Symptom	Possible Cause
Intermittent AC input power:	Facilities using supplemental AC generator power may cause error events due to generator power switchover time.
Shared AC power circuit (wall outlets:	Each treadmill must be connected to a 20-amp, AC individual branch circuit.
Faulty AC neutral wiring:	Each treadmill power outlet circuit must use a separate neutral wire. Neutral wires cannot be shared by multiple outlets.
Low AC wire voltage:	Low AC input voltage drops (< 108 VAC for 120 VAC units and 200 VAC for 240 VAC units) can cause an error event.
Heavy exerciser loading:	A heavy exerciser, under certain conditions (high speed running on a used belt), can overload the motor drive system causing an error event.
Excessive deck/belt friction loading:	Worn deck and running belt friction can overload the motor drive system causing an error event. A shorted LPCA.
Treadmill faulty component issues:	A shorted drive motor causing high power demand.

 

Troubleshooting steps

Check for a one-time nonrecurring error event:

• Check the error log for multiple occurrences of Error 29. Clear the error code from the LPCA memory by cycling the power (OFF/ON).
• Check the error log for multiple occurrences.
  • If there are multiple error events, continue to the next step.
  • If there is only one error event recorded, clear the error log and put the unit back in service.

Check for a multiple time recurring error event:

Check the error code log for multiple occurrences of the error and check the error logs of adjoining treadmills for occurrences of the error. If the adjoining treadmills have Error 29 occurrences, the problem may be with the facility wiring.

Check for correct input AC power and circuit wiring:

Verify the wall outlets DO NOT share a common neutral wire and each wall outlet is on an individual branch circuit. Each branch circuit should have its own separate hot (120/240 VAC), neutral, and ground wire.

• If SHARED, advise customer to have their facility wiring upgraded per Precor specifications. See the Owner’s Manual for specifications.
• If NOT SHARED, continue with the next step.

Check for intermittent, inconsistent, and/or low AC input line voltage:

Measure and note the average AC input line voltage at the Input Module between the brown and blue wire contacts with the treadmill circuit breaker "ON" and the speed set to 0 (idle). Then measure the instantaneous voltage drop while someone is running on the treadmill at 7.0 MPH or higher for several minutes. You can use an analog voltmeter or a digital voltmeter with a min/max function.

• If any measurement is below 108 VAC for 120 VAC units (or 200 VAC for 240 VAC units), advise the customer to have the facility wiring inspected by an electrician. For example, a 250-lb person running at 7 MPH on a good deck and belt can cause the voltage to drop to near 108 VAC.
• If the measurements are within specification, continue with the next step.

Note: Facilities that use generator power can cause an Error 29 event due to intermittent and/or inconsistent AC input voltage levels and frequency stability. Verify the AC Input power is within Precor specification for proper operation.

Check for excessive current draw due to worn running belt and/or deck.

1. Remove the treadmill cover and place an AC clamp ammeter onto the brown wire between the AC input module (AC power cord input) and the circuit breaker (ON/OFF switch).
2. Set the treadmill speed at 7 MPH and 0% incline. Run on the treadmill and observe the average AC current reading. The average AC current reading for a new running belt and deck is between 8 to 12 amperes.
   1. If the average current reading approaches 20 amperes or greater, the running belt should be replaced. The running deck should be flipped (or replaced if previously flipped).

Note: Repeat the amp measurement test after replacing a running belt and deck. Compare these new numbers to the worn deck/belt numbers. This will help you to establish a baseline for you and your meter, which you can use to help troubleshoot future high current service calls.

Check for a faulty motor controller:

Replace the treadmill motor controller and verify the treadmill is working properly.

• If the error recurs, continue with the next step.

Check for a faulty drive motor:

Replace the treadmill motor controller and verify the treadmill is working properly.

• If the error event was not fixed, contact Precor Customer Support for further assistance.