Are you stuck with an electric recliner that won’t close? Don’t worry — it’s a common problem, and you can take some easy steps to get it working again.
If you’re someone who loves the convenience of electric recliners, then a broken recliner can be one of the most frustrating items in your home.
Whether your recliner won’t close after being extended or is stuck in an awkward position, knowing how to repair it on your own may save you money from having to call in a professional and ensure that all uncomfortable moments will soon be a thing of the past!
For all those out there looking for some straightforward advice and tips, we’ve put together this guide on how to fix an electric recliner that won’t close – so continue reading and never let yourself sit through another movie with limited comfort!
What Will You Need?
The first thing you will need is the correct tools for the job – without which even an experienced home repair person may struggle to get the recliner working again. This can include:
- A screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- WD-40 or similar lubricant
- Sockets in various sizes and
- An adjustable wrench
Once you have all the necessary items, it’s time to get working!
10 Easy Steps on How to Fix an Electric Recliner That Won’t Close
Step 1. Unplug the Power Cord:
Safety first! Unplug the recliner’s power cord before you do anything else. If your recliner is plugged in, you could put yourself at risk of electric shock or other electrical problems.
Step 2. Inspect the Motor:
Once you’ve unplugged the power cord, remove any covers or panels covering the electric motor. You’ll want to check for any signs of damage to the motor and its wiring. Don’t forget to check for any loose connections or wires.
Step 3. Check the Switches & Contacts:
It’s important to look over all the switches and contacts within your electric recliner’s system. Ensure there are no loose wires, and check if all connections are securely attached.
If you notice a gap between the contacts, make sure to tighten them up – this can cause problems with power when reclining.
Step 4. Clean Any Dust or Dirt:
If you notice any dust, dirt, or other debris in the area around the electric motor, use a damp cloth to clean it away so as not to interfere with its operation. It will also help to lubricate the motor’s moving parts with a light oil such as WD-40.
Additionally, don’t forget to check the motor’s fan, as a build-up of dust and debris can prevent proper cooling.
Step 5. Lubricate the Motor:
Using WD-40 or a similar lubricant, spray it onto the electric motor and its moving parts to ensure that everything runs smoothly. This is especially important for older electric recliners as dirt and dust can build up over time and cause problems with operation.
Step 6. Check the Motor Wiring:
Now it’s time to check all of the motor wirings and ensure that none is loose or frayed. If there is any problem, you may need to replace the wiring in order to restore your recliner’s function. Be careful not to disconnect any vital wires, as this could cause more damage to your recliner.
Step 7. Check & Tighten Any Screws:
Now check for any loose screws inside the electric recliner and tighten them as needed. This helps ensure that all parts of the system are secure and there is no risk of it coming apart. Moreover, it will help make sure everything is working properly.
Step 8. Check the Power Supply:
Next, make sure that your power supply is in good working order. If you have any doubts about its condition, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible. There may also be a problem with the power supply if your recliner won’t close.
Step 9. Test the Recliner:
Now it’s time to plug the power cord back into the outlet and test your recliner. If everything is working correctly, you should have no problem getting it to close or open with ease. Because electric recliners are complex systems, make sure to take your time and check all the components thoroughly before testing.
Step 10. Check All Connections:
Finally, double-check all of the connections within your electric recliner and make sure that everything is securely attached. This is the best way to ensure that your recliner will work properly for years to come. Remember to take your time and check all components thoroughly.
By following these ten steps, you should be able to fix an electric recliner that won’t close successfully! Though it may be intimidating at first, home repair doesn’t have to be difficult – with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can keep your recliner in good working order for years to come.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Check if the recliner is locked. Many electric recliners are equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents them from opening and closing without being unlocked first.
- Ensure that the footrest has been completely closed. If your electric recliner does not have a locking mechanism, then make sure the footrest is fully engaged before trying to close it.
- Check for any obstructions around or under the chair that may be preventing it from closing properly. Items such as books, blankets, pillows or toys can block the path of an electric recliner and cause it to get stuck in an open position if you don’t take care of them first.
- Inspect all electrical connections connected to your chair for any signs of damage. Loose wires or frayed plugs can prevent your electric recliner from working correctly and cause it to remain locked in an open position.
- If the problem persists, it may be time to call a professional. A qualified technician can take a look at your chair and diagnose any potential issues with its electrical components, helping you get back to relaxing in comfort as soon as possible.
By following these tips and tricks, if you find that your electric recliner won’t close properly, you will be well on your way to having a fully functioning seat again. With a bit of effort, you can get your recliner working like new in no time.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid attempting to adjust any of the wiring or internal parts yourself. Trying to repair an electric recliner without specialized knowledge can be dangerous and can cause further damage.
- Avoid pulling or tugging at the recliner, as this can cause further damage to the motor or mechanical parts that are connected to the recliner.
- Avoid using too much force when attempting to close the recliner, as this may further disrupt its functioning and increase the risk of personal injury.
- Avoid running multiple electric recliners off one power source, as this could overload it and lead to unsafe situations such as electrical fires and shocks.
- Avoid leaving your electric recliner in a closed position for an extended period of time, as this could cause problems with closing and opening later on due to overstretching of components within it.
You will be better equipped to handle your electric recliner and maintain its safety by avoiding these mistakes. If the issue persists, calling a professional for assistance is best. In most cases, they should be able to fix or replace any faulty components to restore your beloved electric recliner to working condition.
How Do You Reset an Electric Recliner?
If your electric recliner still won’t close and all the above tips have not helped, it may be time to reset your chair. This process can usually be done with a simple power cycle: unplugging the power cord from the wall outlet, waiting 30 seconds, then plugging it back in again.
Once this is complete, press any button on the hand control or remote (if applicable) to reactivate the motor. If this doesn’t work either, and you are sure that all connections are secure, then it might be time to look into replacing any components of your recliner if needed.
Resetting an electric recliner is a relatively easy task that should help get your seat back to its full functionality in no time. With some patience, you can easily enjoy your new favorite place to unwind once again.
Conclusion
All in all, how to fix an electric recliner that won’t close can be a relatively straightforward process when you have the right tools and know-how. Always be sure to refer to your manufacturer’s manual and take any safety recommendations seriously as you troubleshoot the issue.
Finding and correcting the primary cause of your recliner’s malfunction can easily save you time, money, and hassle.
Moreover, it could even prevent a possibly dangerous situation from arising in the future if, for example, a short circuit were to create sparks or potentially start a fire.
So, despite the difficulty of locating faulty parts and the involved costs, be sure not to neglect proper maintenance for your electric recliner’s health – there’s no price you can put on peace of mind!
