Your power recliner is a source of comfort and luxury at the touch of a button. But occasionally it encounters issues that leave you scratching your head. A few common issues most recliner users face are your chair stuck in the reclined position, unresponsive controls, or a motor that suddenly goes silent.
If you are facing any of these problems with your old or newly set-up electric recliner, then donтАЩt panic. Here I will tell you how to troubleshoot the power recliner. You will learn simple yet effective techniques to restore your power recliner functionality.
Common Power Recliner Problems and Their Troubleshooting
A power recliner typically consists of a motor, control panel, wiring, and various mechanical components that work together for the proper functionality of your power recliner. However, if any of these get faults, it will malfunction your whole recliner working mechanism.
1. Unresponsive Controls
One of the most common frustrations with your power recliner is unresponsive controls. Your comfort is disrupted when your remote control or built-in control panel does not respond to your commands. The causes of these issues include dead batteries, faulty switches, or wiring problems.
LetтАЩs explore a step-by-step troubleshooting method to help you identify and resolve the issue.
How to Troubleshoot Unresponsive Controls
I have already told you that several factors are responsible for unresponsive controls. You have to troubleshoot each one by one.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Replace Batteries: First, check if the remote control batteries are dead and replace them if necessary.
- Inspect the Wiring: Then properly connect the cables including those attached to the motor and control panel. Also, inspect for loose or damaged wires.
- Test Power Supply: Verify that the recliner is plugged into a working outlet and that the power cord is not damaged. You can also try resetting it by unplugging it for a few minutes.
- Call for Help: If the issue persists after trying these steps, contact customer service or a technician for further assistance.
2. Stuck or Jammed Recliner
Another issue you can face with your recliner is a stuck or jammed recliner. In this condition, the recliner prevents from reclining or returning to the upright position.
Usually, this problem occurs because of obstructions, worn-out components, or due to malfunction in the motor. You can try to troubleshoot a jammed or stuck recliner by following the below step-by-step guide.┬а
Troubleshooting Steps
Try to implement the following troubleshooting methods one by one to solve this problem;
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Most of the time you can easily fix this issue by applying a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts such as hinges and springs. Lubricants help in the prevention of friction and allow the smooth movement of jammed parts.
- Inspect for Obstructions: Sometimes small pieces of fabric, debris, or small objects are stuck in between the moving parts and obstruct the smooth movements of parts. You just need to look between the moving parts for any visible blockage that might prevent the recliner from moving.
- Manually Adjust the Recliner: A manual adjustment works in most cases when there is a minor jam causing the issue. For manual adjustments, you need to gently apply pressure to move the recliner and release any internal jams.
If the recliner remains stuck despite these efforts, the issue might be with the motor or other internal components, requiring professional repair.
3. Recliner WonтАЩt Recline
Sometimes you face a frustrating situation with your power recliner when it refuses to recline. This is overwhelming when you want to relax. Usually, this problem is caused by the power supply.
Troubleshooting Steps
Follow the below troubleshoots to deal with a situation where your recliner stops reclining;
- Check the Power Source: Before you go for any other troubleshooting method. I will suggest you check whether the recliner is plugged securely. Sometimes a loose plug is responsible for not providing the proper current for the working of the recliner. You can test the outlet by plugging in another device. If the outlet is functional, move to the next step.
- Inspect Wiring Connections: If the recliner is properly plugged and still not working then try to flip the recliner over and examine the wiring. Check if any wire has disconnected or damaged and prevent the chair from reclining. Reconnect any loose wire or replace the damaged one to secure the connection.
- Test the Recliner’s Remote: Sometimes, the issue lies with the remote control. Replace the batteries and ensure the remote is properly paired with the recliner. If the remote is damaged, you may need to replace it.
- Check for Motor Problems: If the recliner still doesnтАЩt work, the motor might be the issue. Listen for any unusual sounds when you press the recline button. A faulty motor can be replaced by a technician after careful inspection.
4. Recliner WonтАЩt Stop Reclining
A recliner that keeps reclining without stopping can be a serious inconvenience, not to mention a potential safety hazard. This issue is often caused by a malfunction in the control system, faulty wiring, or a stuck button. If your recliner won’t stop reclining, acting quickly can help prevent further damage.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Examine the Remote Control: The first thing to check is the remote control. A stuck button or malfunctioning remote may be continuously sending signals to the recliner. You have to replace the battery or remote.
- Inspect the Wiring: Unplug the recliner and inspect the wiring underneath the chair. Loose, damaged, or short-circuited wires can cause uncontrolled recliner movements. Reconnect any loose wires and ensure everything is securely attached.
- Reset the Recliner: If the recliner continues to recline without stopping, try resetting the chair. Unplug the unit for 30 seconds and then plug it back in. This can often reset the electronic components and resolve any malfunction.
- Inspect the Motor: In rare cases, a faulty motor can cause the chair to continuously recline. If none of the previous steps solve the problem, the motor might need to be replaced, which will require professional assistance.
5. Squeaky Recliner
A squeaky recliner can quickly turn a relaxing experience into an annoying one. Over time, wear and tear on the recliner’s moving parts can lead to squeaks, often caused by loose components, friction between metal parts, or dried-out lubricants. If left unchecked, these squeaks can worsen and indicate deeper structural problems.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Tighten Loose Screws and Bolts: The most common reason for squeaks is loose screws or bolts. To deal with this problem you need to inspect the joints and metal parts of the recliner, particularly in the base and footrest. You can use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten them.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Another reason for squeaks is friction between the metal parts. You can use lubricants like silicone spray or WD-40 on hinges, springs, and other moving parts.
- Check for Worn-Out Springs: Damage or stretching in springs results in a squeaking noise. If you find any overstretched or damaged springs, replace them with newer ones. You may need to consult a recliner technician to buy a compatible part.
- Inspect the Frame: Sometimes, the frame of the recliner itself can become the source of the squeak. Look for any cracks or areas where the wood or metal frame might be rubbing together. Reinforce any weak spots with screws or brackets if needed.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting power recliner issues is a simple process if you follow the right steps. By understanding the basics of how a power recliner works and implementing the troubleshooting techniques outlined in this guide, you can keep your chair in optimal condition for years to come. Remember to prioritize safety and seek professional help when needed to ensure the longevity of your power recliner.
