If your recliner’s footrest is broken or stuck, don’t worry – it’s an easy fix! This article will show you how to fix a recliner footrest. We’ve got you covered whether you need to replace a broken component or adjust the mechanism. So kick back, relax, and let us help you get your recliner working like new again.
Many people think that a recliner is nothing more than a comfortable chair. However, a recliner is so much more! It provides comfort and relaxation, but it can also help improve your posture and blood circulation. A good recliner should last for many years, but even the best will eventually need repairs. But don’t worry – most recliner repairs are simple and can be done by the average do-it-yourselfer.
Summary: If the footrest on your recliner isn’t working properly, the cause is likely a broken or worn cable. Replacing the cable is relatively easy with basic tools and a few simple steps.
First, remove the furniture’s upholstery to access the cable and mechanism. Then, disconnect any old components and replace them with new ones. Reassemble your recliner and test its footrest to ensure it works as expected.
What Causes Recliner Footrest to Malfunction?
One common issue that can cause a recliner footrest to malfunction is if it becomes jammed in the open or closed position. This can be caused by dirt, dust, or other particles getting caught in the gears or hinges. If this occurs, try cleaning the mechanism with a small brush to dislodge any obstructions.
The footrest on a recliner can sometimes become stuck in the up or down position. This is usually because something is blocking the gears or the spring is not providing enough tension. To fix this, you will need to take the footrest apart and find the problem.
The most severe issue with recliners is when the footrest breaks completely. This can be caused by excessive wear and tear, being hit or dropped, or being exposed to extreme temperatures. If the footrest breaks, it will need to be replaced.
A Detailed Guide on How to Fix a Recliner Footrest
Method 1: Fixing Recliner Footrest Spring
One of the most common problems with a recliner footrest is a broken spring. If the footrest isn’t staying up, it may be because the spring has snapped or come undone. In this case, you can fix it by replacing the spring . It’s also possible that the spring is simply too loose, in which case you can tighten it.
What You’ll Need
- Pliers
- Wirecutter
- Socket wrench set
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- 7/16 wrench
- Saw blade
- Bench vise
Step 1:
Remove the cover from the footrest to reveal a coil spring. Use pliers to hold the spring in place while cutting it with a wire cutter. If you don’t want to cut the spring, you can remove it by using a socket wrench set to loosen the screw on one end and then pull it out.
Step 2:
Measure how long the new spring needs to be. It needs to be about 1 inch shorter than the old one. Cut the new spring with a wire cutter.
Step 3:
Put the footrest in a bench vise to face up the opening. Make sure that the vise is clamped down tightly before proceeding.
Step 4:
Take the saw blade and cut the old spring in half. Be very careful not to cut yourself.
Step 5:
Install the new spring by placing it over the post on the footrest. Make sure that it is in the correct position before tightening the screw.
Step 6:
Replace the cover and test out the footrest. It should now be working correctly.
Method 2: Fixing a Recliner Leaning to Just One Side
If your recliner leans noticeably to one side, the likely cause is that one of the feet has become loose. In this case, you can fix the problem quickly by tightening the screws on your foot.
What You’ll Need
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Crescent wrench
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Saw
Step 1:
With the recliner in the upright position, remove the screws on the foot that is leaning. There should be four or six screws, depending on the make and model of your recliner.
Step 2:
Once the screws are removed, use the wrench to loosen the foot’s nut in place.
Step 3:
Tap the foot with a hammer to free it from the chair. Again, be careful not to damage the wood or metal frame.
Step 4:
Cut away any excess metal or wood with a chisel until the foot fits snugly against the chair’s frame again.
Step 5:
Reattach the foot by screwing it back in place and tightening the nut with the wrench.
Step 6:
Test the recliner to make sure it’s stable. If it’s still leaning, try adjusting the screw on the foot until it’s level.
Step 7:
Repeat these steps for the other foot if necessary.
Method 3: Fixing a Recliner Footrest That Won’t Stay Up
If your recliner’s footrest keeps falling, the likely culprit is a loose or broken spring. You can fix this problem by separating the footrest and reattaching the spring.
What You’ll Need
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Hammer
- Small metal rod (like a coat hanger)
Step 1:
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screws from the footrest. Be careful not to lose any of the screws, as they will be difficult to replace.
Once the screws are removed, you can take the footrest apart by pulling it away from the chair.
Step 2:
The spring is located near the bottom of the footrest. It will be attached to a metal rod with two small screws. Remove the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver and set them aside. Then use needle-nose pliers to remove the spring from the metal rod.
Step 3:
Take the new spring and reattach it to the metal rod using the two screws. Make sure that the spring is correctly aligned before tightening the screws.
Step 4:
Once the spring is attached, put the footrest back together by reversing the steps you took to take it apart.
Be sure to replace all of the screws and make sure they are tight. Now your recliner should have a working footrest again! This is a crucial method in how to fix a recliner footrest.
Method 4: Fixing Recliner Footrest Won’t Stay Down or Won’t Close
If your recliner footrest doesn’t stay down or close, you can use a piece of wood as a shim. This is a straightforward fix.
What You’ll Need
- Piece of wood
- Hammer
- Nail
- Screwdriver
Step 1:
The first step is to measure the width of the footrest. You will need a piece of wood that is at least as wide as the footrest.
Step 2:
Next, you need to cut the wood to size. The easiest way to do this is to use a saw. If you don’t have a saw, you can use a sharp knife or scissors.
Step 3:
Hammer in a nail on each end of the board. Make sure that the nail is long enough to go through the board and into the bottom of the recliner footrest.
Step 4:
Use the screwdriver to secure the board to the footrest. Next, drive in a screw on each end of the board. Make sure that the screws are long enough to go through the board and into the bottom of the footrest.
Now your recliner footrest should stay down or closed when you use it. So enjoy your new, fixed recliner!
Method 5: Fixing a Lazy Boy Recliner Footrest
If you are experiencing problems with your Lazy Boy recliner footrest, there is a quick and easy solution that you can do yourself.
First, remove the cover from the footrest. Next, you should see two screws at the top of the footrest. Remove these screws and set them aside.
Next, you will need to locate the small metal bar inside the footrest. This bar is what helps to lift and lower the footrest. Gently pry this bar up using a screwdriver or a butter knife. You may have to wiggle it back and forth until it comes loose.
Once the bar is loose, you can replace it by inserting it back into the hole and pushing it down until it is firmly in place. Next, replace the screws you removed earlier and put the cover back on the footrest.
How Do You Adjust the Footrest Tension on a Recliner?
Depending on your preference, the footrest tension on a recliner can be adjusted to make it tighter or looser. Here’s how to do it:
1. First, identify the adjustment lever for the footrest tension. It will likely be either on the side or back of the chair.
2. Next, locate the screw that controls the footrest tension. This will also be either on the side or back of the chair.
3. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to adjust the screw until you have the desired tension on the footrest. Be sure to test it out before tightening it, as you may not be able to change it once it’s tight!
4. Finally, tighten or loosen the adjustment lever until the footrest is at the desired tension.
How Do I Make My Recliner Easier?
If you are finding it difficult to use your recliner, there may be a few things you can do to make it easier. One common issue is that the footrest isn’t moving correctly. This can be caused by several things, such as dirt or debris buildup, something caught in the mechanism, or a broken part. Fortunately, it’s usually an easy fix. Here’s how to do it:
First, check to see if anything is blocking the footrest from moving. If something is caught in the mechanism, you can usually release it by using a screwdriver or pliers to pull it out. Be careful not to damage anything while doing this.
Next, clean any dirt or debris from the mechanism. This can be done using a small brush or a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment.
If the footrest is still not moving correctly, you may need to replace a broken part. This can usually be done by taking the recliner apart and replacing the part yourself or by taking it to a repair shop.
If you have followed these steps and the footrest is still not moving correctly, it may be time to call a professional to look at it. They will be able to determine what is causing the issue and fix it for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Recliner Chair Be Repaired?
It is possible to repair a recliner chair, but it will likely require some fabrication and must be done by a professional. Each part of the furniture has its own unique construction, so unless you are familiar with this type of gear, it would be best to leave repairs to the professionals. When something goes wrong with your recliner chairs, it can become difficult and time-consuming to fix on your own.
There are also many different types of recliners out there (futon vs power), so finding someone who specializes in repairing these specific models may prove easier than trying to figure out how to do it yourself. In addition, damages that occur due to or caused by pets or children often necessitate specialist repair services as well. So if you’re ever lucky enough to find someone capable of repairing your chair(s), make sure you get their contact information so that any future issues can be taken care of easily and without much hassle!
Is There a Reset Button on Electric Recliners?
The best way to fix a recliner that doesn’t seem to be working properly may vary depending on the particular recliner and its specific issues. However, some general tips that might help include checking for loose screws or bolts, adjusting the handlebar if it’s not moving in an appropriate direction, and cleaning any debris or dirt from around the gears or motors.
If these measures don’t appear to be resolving your issue, you should contact a technician certified in repairing electric recliners. They will likely be able to diagnose and fix your recliner quickly and effectively so that you can enjoy its intended use once again.
Why Has My Reclining Chair Stopped Working?
If you’re experiencing issues with your reclining chair, it’s likely that the motor has gone bad. There are a few things that you can do to try and fix the issue yourself:
- If you’re able to remove the backrest of the chair, you can check for obstructions in the motor’s path. If there are any, you can try to remove them using a small screwdriver or by using a vacuum cleaner.
- If you’re unable to remove the backrest of the chair, you can try to replace the motor using parts that are available online or at a hardware store. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and consult with a technician if you have any questions.
- If all of these measures fail, it may be necessary to replace the entire chair.
Conclusion
If you have problems with your footrest, there is a simple solution. All you need to do is follow these methods on how to fix a recliner footrest, and your recliner should be good as new. Thanks for reading.
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