If your recliner isn’t quite living up to its name, you may be having trouble with fixing the footrest. Whether it simply won’t stay in place or refuses to go back out of the way when not in use, it can really take away from the cozy atmosphere of a recliner chair.
From quick and easy fixes that don’t require any tools at all, to more technical solutions that call for some tinkering – we’re here to provide everything you need to know on how to fix a recliner footrest!
What is Recliner Footrest?
A recliner footrest is a kick-out lever or handles located at the side of a recliner chair that allows you to adjust the angle and position of your legs while using the chair. In some cases, this footrest may become stuck, preventing it from working properly. It’s important to understand the mechanism behind this lever so you can identify the cause and fix it!
11 Easy Step-by-step Guides on How to Fix a Recliner Footrest
Step 1: Check the Cable
If your footrest is stuck, it could be due to a problem with the cable that runs from the lever to the mechanism inside the recliner. Try to locate and inspect the cable for any signs of damage, such as fraying or broken strands, which can prevent it from extending and retracting properly. If the cable appears to be in good condition, you can move on to step 2.
Step 2: Inspect the Mechanism
The mechanism inside your recliner is what powers the footrest lever. Look for any debris that could be blocking its operation, or try adjusting it manually using a screwdriver (just make sure you know what you’re doing).
If it still doesn’t work, then you may need to call a professional. It’s also a good idea to check the frame of your recliner for any loose screws or bolts that could be causing the problem.
Step 3: Lubricate Moving Parts
If your recliner has been left idle for a while, it’s possible that its moving parts have become dry or rusty due to lack of use. Apply some lubricant to them in order to improve their functionality. But be careful not to over-lubricate as this could cause further problems. If you’re not sure what kind of lubricant to use, check with your recliner’s manufacturer.
Step 4: Replace the Springs
If your footrest isn’t working properly, it could be due to faulty springs. Generally speaking, they should last around eight years before needing to be replaced. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, consult a recliner repair specialist who can help you get it fixed. This should resolve any issues with the footrest.
Step 5: Tighten the Screws
The screws that hold the footrest in place may become loose over time with regular use of the chair. Check and tighten them if needed using a screwdriver. Make sure not to overtighten or damage any of the parts! But if you find that the screws are missing or need to be replaced, it’s best to call a professional recliner repair specialist.
Step 6: Reset or Replace the Handle
The handle for your footrest lever may have been jarred out of position, preventing it from working correctly. Try resetting the handle by gently pushing it back into place. If that doesn’t solve the problem, then you may need to replace the handle altogether. These are usually easy to find at most hardware stores.
Step 7: Adjust the Lever
If your footrest lever is not extending and retracting properly, try adjusting it ever-so-slightly using a screwdriver or Allen wrench. This can help to improve its function and get it working again! If this doesn’t help, then you may need to replace the lever altogether. This is best done by a professional recliner repair technician.
Step 8: Replace the Hinge Pin
The hinge pin connects the footrest lever to the mechanism inside your recliner chair, so if this becomes damaged or broken then it could be preventing your footrest from operating correctly. Replacing this component should restore functionality and get your recliner back to its best! It’s best to consult a recliner repair specialist for this type of job.
Step 9: Tighten the Motor
If your recliner has a motorized footrest, then it could be due to the motor becoming loose or damaged. Try tightening the screws and inspect for any signs of damage. If you don’t feel confident in doing this yourself, get a professional technician to help out. Otherwise, you may need to replace the motor altogether.
Step 10: Clean the Lever Arm
The lever arm of your recliner footrest may have become dirty over time, which can prevent it from working correctly. Use an old rag to clean off any dirt or debris that may have built up around it, then try operating it once more! However, if the lever arm is completely blocked then you may need to remove it and clean behind it.
Step 11: Look for Wear-and-Tear
If your recliner has been in use for quite some time, then it may be showing signs of wear and tear. Check the lever arm and other parts of the footrest for any damage, such as bends or cracks, that could be preventing it from functioning correctly. If necessary, contact a professional repair specialist to help you solve this issue!
With these steps in mind on how to fix a recliner footrest, you should have everything you need. Whether you opt for the do-it-yourself route or call up a specialist, hopefully, your chair will soon be back up and running in no time! Good luck!
Do You Need to Hire a Professional?
If you find yourself in a situation where the above steps are not enough to fix a recliner footrest, then it may be time to call in a professional. A qualified technician will have all the necessary tools and expertise needed to get your chair back up and running again.
This is especially important if there is an issue with the motor or electronics of your recliner, as attempting to repair this yourself could cause further damage. Ultimately, hiring a professional will save you time and money in the long run – ensuring that your recliner remains comfortable for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How Can I Prevent My Recliner Footrest From Becoming Stuck?
A: The best way to ensure that your recliner footrest remains in working order is to use it regularly. This will help keep the springs and other parts lubricated, preventing any issues from occurring down the line. Additionally, consistently cleaning and inspecting your recliner for any signs of damage can also help in keeping it well-maintained.
Q: What Are the Signs of a Faulty Recliner Footrest?
A: If your footrest lever is refusing to stay in place or extend when needed, then this could be a sign of a faulty mechanism at work.
Additionally, you may also notice a grinding noise coming from inside the recliner when attempting to operate it – which indicates that something has gone wrong with its inner workings. To have these issues properly addressed by an expert technician, it’s best to contact a recliner repair specialist.
Q: What Are Common Causes of Recliner Footrest Failure?
A: It is important to keep in mind that the most common cause of footrest failure is wear-and-tear over time. If your chair has been used frequently, then it could be due for some maintenance and repairs.
Additionally, faulty cables, weak springs and worn-out parts could also contribute to its malfunctioning. To diagnose and resolve these issues quickly, consult an expert technician who specializes in recliner repair!
Q: What Are the Benefits of Fixing a Recliner Footrest?
A: By fixing your recliner footrest, you can extend its life and maximize its comfort. Additionally, this will also help save on costs in the long run as these repairs are usually much cheaper than buying a new recliner. Finally, having an expert technician inspect and repair any issues with your chair will ensure that it continues to operate smoothly for many more years!
Conclusion
Ultimately, following these steps to repair a recliner footrest should help you with your problem. This process can take some time, so be sure to be patient and work systematically in order to ensure the best results.
If you still run into issues once you have worked through the steps above, please don’t hesitate to contact a certified technician for further assistance. It is also helpful to familiarize yourself with how the mechanism works and how it is made as it may help if you encounter a similar issue down the line.
Overall, fixing a recliner footrest is less of an inconvenience than having to buy a new one altogether! So if you’ve ever found yourself struggling with this issue, now you know exactly what needs to be done. Take action today and get your recliner working like new again. Thanks for reading this article on how to fix a recliner footrest.
