Lift Chair Won't Lift? A Step-By-Step Check

What to check when a lift chair stops raising or lowering, and how to stay safe while you do it.

A lift chair that stops working can leave someone stuck, so it pays to stay calm and work safely. If a person is stuck in the chair and cannot get out safely, get help first.

1. Check the power

Test the outlet and look at the light on the power supply. If the chair has a backup battery, it may help in a power cut, so check your manual.

2. Check the plugs

Unplug the chair, then reseat each connection underneath. Lift chairs get moved for cleaning, and plugs can come loose.

3. Try the hand control

If the buttons feel dead or only one direction works, suspect the hand control.

4. Listen to the motor

Humming or grinding can point to the actuator. Check under the chair for anything jammed in the frame.

Do not force it

Lift chairs are heavy and have strong moving parts. Do not lift or force the mechanism by hand. For a chair that is stuck raised or tilting, ask a technician or a second person to help.