Are you struggling to figure out how to recline your power recliner? Learn how to manually recline an electric recliner safely and effectively in this post.
Can you manually recline an electric recliner?
That’s a question I had when my electric recliner started malfunctioning. I started researching this topic and did some extensive trials and errors.
I came up with a comprehensive answer to this issue based on experience and research.
The short answer to this question is “It depends”. You can manually recline your electric recliner, but only if your choice does have a manual override feature. Some electric recliners have this feature, while others don’t.
But how do you know that yours has a manual override feature?
The easiest way is to check the recliner manual for your chair. Keep reading to learn how to recline your chair if it has an override option.
How do electric recliners work?
Let’s start with the basics:
Electric recliners are powered by an electric motor that controls the chair’s backrest and footrest movement. This movement allows the user to recline and adjust their position with the push of a button.
While electric recliners offer many benefits, they can sometimes malfunction or lose power, making it difficult to use the electric recline feature. In such situations, manually reclining the chair may be necessary to continue enjoying its support.
The manual reclining of an electric recliner involves bypassing the electric motor and adjusting the chair’s backrest and footrest using a lever or other manual mechanism. This knowledge is beneficial in case of power outages or the electric motor fails to work correctly.
If your electric recliner does not support manual reclining, don’t attempt to do it. Trying may damage the recliner if you apply much force.
Reasons for manually reclining an electric recliner
There are several reasons why someone might need to recline an electric recliner manually.
One of the most common reasons is a power outage or malfunction in the electric motor that controls the recline feature.
In such situations, the user may find themselves stuck in an uncomfortable or awkward position, unable to adjust the chair’s backrest and footrest.
Another reason for manually reclining an electric recliner is to do maintenance or repairs on the chair. For example, if the recline mechanism becomes stuck or starts to squeak, it may be necessary to adjust the chair to diagnose and fix the problem manually.
Some people may also prefer to use the manual recline feature on their electric recliner instead of using the electric motor. Manual recline mechanisms can be less noisy and more reliable than electric motors, which may be preferred by those who value simplicity.
Whatever the reason for manually reclining an electric recliner, it’s essential to know how to do so safely and effectively.
Preparing to recline an electric recliner manually
Before manually reclining an electric recliner, preparing the chair and the surrounding area is crucial to ensure the process is safe and effective. Here are some tips to follow:
Check the chair’s manual
Most electric recliners come with a manual that contains important information about the chair’s features and operation. Before attempting to recline the chair manually, read the manual carefully to understand how the chair is designed to work.
And, also do learn if yours has a manual override option.
Move the chair to a safe location
Ensure that the chair is located in a safe and stable position, away from other furniture or obstacles that could hinder the manual recline process. Move the chair to an open area with plenty of space to maneuver.
Disconnect the power
Before attempting to recline the chair manually, unplug it from the power source or turn off the power switch to prevent any accidental activation of the electric motor.
Gather tools and materials
Depending on the chair’s design, you may need specific tools or materials to recline it manually. Standard tools used for manual reclining include a flathead screwdriver, pliers, and an Allen wrench.
Check the manual or consult a furniture expert to determine your necessary tools.
Wear appropriate clothing
When manually reclining an electric recliner, it’s vital to wear comfortable clothing for ease of movement. Avoid wearing too tight or restrictive clothing, which can make manoeuvring the chair challenging.
Understanding the manual recline mechanism
Understanding the recline mechanism is essential. There are several manual recline mechanisms, and the specific tool used will depend on the chair’s design. Here are some common types of manual recline mechanisms:
- Lever: A lever is a simple and common manual recline mechanism on the chair’s side. To use the lever, pull it up or down.
- Pull-tab: Some chairs use a pull-tab mechanism, typically located on the side or bottom of the chair. To use the pull-tab, pull on the tab to release the locking mechanism and adjust the backrest and footrest to the desired position.
- Push-button: Some chairs use a push-button mechanism, which is located on the side or bottom of the chair. To use the push-button, press it to release the locking mechanism and adjust it.
- Screw: Some chairs use a screw mechanism, which is located on the side or bottom of the chair. To use the screw, turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the backrest and footrest.
A step-by-step guide to manually recline an electric recliner
Manually reclining an electric recliner involves using the manual recline mechanism to make adjustments. Here are some general steps to follow:
Locate the recline mechanism
Depending on the chair’s design, the manual recline mechanism may be located on the chair’s side, bottom, or back. Consult the chair’s manual or scrutinize the chair’s design to identify the mechanism.
Use the manual recline mechanism
Once you have located the manual recline mechanism, use the appropriate tool to activate it. For example, if the chair uses a lever mechanism, pull the lever up or down to adjust the backrest and footrest.
If the chair uses a pull-tab mechanism, pull on the tab to release and adjust the locking mechanism. Follow the manual instructions for your specific chair to ensure you use the manual recline mechanism correctly.
Adjust the position
Once the manual recline mechanism has been activated, adjust the backrest and footrest to the desired position. Depending on the mechanism’s resistance, you may need to use your body weight to help move the chair into the desired position.
Lock the mechanism
Once you have adjusted the chair to the desired position, lock the manual recline mechanism to prevent the chair from moving. Follow the instructions for your specific chair to ensure you lock the mechanism correctly.
Test
Once the manual recline mechanism is locked in place, test the chair’s position to ensure it is comfortable and stable. If necessary, adjust the position further until you are satisfied.
The steps for manually reclining your electric recliner are laid out in this table.
Step | Instructions | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
1 | Locate the release lever or tab | N/A |
2 | Pull the release lever or tab | N/A |
3 | Apply pressure to the footrest | N/A |
4 | Lean back to recline the backrest | N/A |
5 | Secure the reclined position | N/A |
6 | Return the footrest and backrest to the upright position | N/A |
Tips for maintaining the recline mechanism
After manually reclining an electric recliner, it’s essential to take additional steps to ensure that the chair is functioning correctly and prevent damage or wear over time. Here are some critical tips to follow:
Clean the chair
Before using the chair again, clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated during the manual recline process. Use a soft cloth and cleaning solution to clean the chair, and dry it thoroughly before using it again.
If you want to learn more about this, check out our guide.
Check the mechanism
After manually reclining the chair, check the mechanism to ensure it functions correctly. Test the mechanism by adjusting the backrest and footrest a few times to ensure it moves smoothly and locks securely.
If the mechanism is not functioning correctly, consult an expert for assistance.
Reconnect the power
After manually reclining the chair and checking the mechanism, reconnect the power source or turn on the power switch to resume regular electric operation. Test the electric recline function to ensure that it is working correctly.
Monitor for wear and tear
After manually reclining the chair, monitor it for signs of wear and tear over time. Check the manual recline mechanism regularly to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
Also, watch for any signs of damage or wear on the chair’s upholstery, frame, or other components. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage or injury.
Solving common issues with electric recliners
There are common issues to remember when manually reclining an electric recliner. Here are some essential things to consider:
Use caution when manually reclining the chair
Manually reclining an electric recliner can require a significant amount of force. This force depends on the resistance of the manual recline mechanism.
Use caution when applying force to the chair, and follow the instructions for your specific chair to avoid damaging the mechanism or injuring yourself.
Always unplug the chair before reclining
Always unplug or turn off the power switch before manually reclining it to prevent electrical shock or damage to the chair’s electronics.
Keep fingers and other body parts clear of moving parts
When manually reclining the chair, keep your fingers, toes, and other body parts clear of the moving parts of the mechanism. This action will help prevent injury and damage to the chair.
Avoid over-reclining the chair
Manually reclining an electric recliner too far can stress the frame and upholstery, which can cause damage over time. Follow the instructions for your specific chair to ensure you do not over-recline the chair.
Don’t force the mechanism
If the manual recline mechanism is difficult to activate or adjust, do not force it. The force can cause damage to the recliner. Instead, consult the chair’s manual or a furniture expert for assistance.
Here’s a helpful resource you can watch:
Final Thoughts
Before attempting to recline your electric recliner manually, check the warranty documentation. Or contact the manufacturer to determine whether manual reclining is permitted and whether it will void the warranty.
If manual reclining is not recommended or will void the warranty, it’s best to avoid manually reclining the chair. You can rely on the electric recline function, and if there’s a power outage, use the backup system.
You may be wondering whether to choose a manual or electric recliner. Read this post to learn the best choice for you.
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