Facing trouble with your recliner’s footrest? Don’t let a faulty footrest ruin your relaxation time.
The culprit behind your discomfort could be the footrest springs, and replacing them might be the solution you need.
Understanding how to replace recliner footrest springs can be the difference between a frustrating chair and the ultimate comfort zone.
This guide will take you through the causes of footrest spring damage, why it’s necessary to fix it, the types of springs used, and importantly, a step-by-step process for replacing the springs in your recliner footrest.
To replace recliner footrest springs, gather the necessary tools, position your recliner for easy access, remove access points, and carefully detach the old springs. Install the new springs securely and test your footrest before reassembling.
Finally, lubricate the mechanism for a smooth operation.
How to Replace Recliner Footrest Springs? – Brief Answer
Replacing your recliner footrest springs doesn’t have to be an intimidating task. Start by gathering your necessary tools like a screwdriver and pliers.
Position your recliner for easy access to the footrest mechanism and locate the springs.
With caution, detach the old springs and then install the new ones in their designated positions, ensuring they’re securely attached.
Before reassembling your recliner, test the footrest to ensure it operates smoothly.
As a bonus tip, remember to lubricate the mechanism after replacing the springs, which helps prevent future wear and tear.
What are the Causes of Recliner Footrest Springs Damage?
Recliner footrest springs, like any other mechanical components, are subject to various types of damage. Let’s explore some of the common causes.
Excessive Weight:
Recliners are designed to accommodate a certain weight limit. When this limit is exceeded, the footrest springs may undergo undue stress, leading to breakage or damage.
It’s always best to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding weight capacity to ensure the durability of your recliner.
Wear and Tear:
Another common cause of damage is natural wear and tear. As you use the recliner over time, the springs lose their elasticity, affecting the footrest’s functionality.
Regular maintenance can slow down this process, but eventually, you may need to replace the springs.
Rust and Corrosion:
Moisture is a nemesis for metal parts, including your recliner’s springs. If exposed to damp conditions, the springs may rust or corrode, which weakens them, leading to damage or breakage.
Improper Usage:
Lastly, using the recliner inappropriately, such as forcefully extending or retracting the footrest, can lead to spring damage. Remember, gentle and correct use can prolong the life of your recliner’s components.
Why Is It Necessary to Fix Recliner Footrest Springs Damage?
Once we understand the causes of spring damage, it’s essential to comprehend why addressing this issue promptly is crucial.
Enhanced Comfort:
The primary role of a recliner is to provide maximum comfort. A functional footrest spring is crucial in fulfilling this role.
By ensuring your footrest springs are in top condition, you contribute to a comfortable and relaxing experience each time you use your recliner.
Safety:
A damaged footrest spring can make the footrest unstable, posing a risk of accidents and injuries, especially to children or elderly users. By fixing or replacing the springs, you can guarantee the safety of everyone using the recliner.
Prolonged Furniture Life:
By replacing damaged springs promptly, you are extending your recliner’s lifespan. It helps keep the chair functional and looking new for a longer period.
Cost Efficiency:
While there is some cost associated with buying new springs and possibly tools, this is far less than the cost of replacing the entire recliner. It’s an economical and environmentally friendly approach.
Types of Footrest Springs:
There are several types of springs used in the construction of recliners. Each type offers a different level of support and comfort.
Understanding the different types of springs is essential when looking to replace them. Let’s discuss the three common types in more detail:
Coil Springs:
Coil springs are probably the most recognizable type of springs. These are essentially coiled wires wound into a spiral shape. These springs are known for providing firm and robust support.
They function by compressing under pressure, providing a robust and supportive experience when the footrest is in use.
However, due to their sturdy nature, coil springs can be a bit difficult to replace as they require a significant amount of force to remove and install.
Serpentine Springs:
Next, we have serpentine springs. Also known as zigzag springs, these are characterized by their unique S-shaped design.
They’re typically found in the seating area of a recliner to provide a softer, more flexible feel, but some recliners use these in the footrest for the same reason.
Serpentine springs are easier to replace than coil springs due to their flexible nature.
However, it’s essential to ensure they’re correctly aligned during installation to prevent discomfort or potential damage to the spring.
Tension Springs:
Lastly, there are tension springs. These springs are used for counterbalancing the footrest, allowing it to move up and down smoothly.
Tension springs work by expanding and contracting, providing the necessary counterforce that enables the footrest to operate seamlessly.
During replacement, one should be extra cautious as these springs are under a lot of tension, and any mishandling can result in them snapping back, causing potential harm.
6 Steps to Replace Recliner Footrest Springs
Replacing the springs in your recliner’s footrest may seem like a daunting task, but by following these steps, you can handle it like a pro.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a screwdriver to remove the screws on the access panels, pliers to remove the old springs, replacement springs, and safety gear such as gloves and eye protection to ensure your safety during the process.
Step 2: Position the Recliner
Next, turn the recliner upside down or position it in a way that allows you to easily access the footrest mechanism.
This positioning ensures you have a clear view and easy access to the springs, making the replacement process smoother.
Step 3: Locate and Remove Access Points
Locate the access points beneath the recliner and remove any covers or panels using your screwdriver.
These covers protect the internal mechanisms, including the footrest springs, and removing them provides access to the springs.
Step 4: Carefully Detach the Old Springs
Once you’ve gained access, use your pliers to carefully detach the old springs from their mounting points.
Remember to pay attention to how they’re installed, as this will guide you when installing the new springs.
Step 5: Install and Secure the New Springs
With the old springs removed, you can now install the new ones. Insert the new springs in their designated positions and secure them firmly using your pliers.
If your recliner uses tension springs, ensure they’re properly tensioned. This step might take a little effort, but it’s crucial for the correct operation of your footrest.
Step 6: Test and Reassemble
Before reassembling your recliner, test the footrest to ensure smooth operation. If it functions properly, reattach any covers or panels that were removed during the process.
Make sure all screws are tightly secured to prevent any loose parts from causing issues later on.
Additional Tip: Lubricate the Mechanism
Lastly, after replacing the springs, consider lubricating the footrest mechanism.
This process not only ensures smoother operation but can also help prevent future wear and tear, extending the overall life of your recliner.
FAQs:
What tools do I need to replace recliner footrest springs?
To replace recliner footrest springs, you’ll need a screwdriver, pliers, replacement springs, and safety gear such as gloves to protect your hands during the process.
How do I identify the type of footrest spring in my recliner?
Recliners typically use coil springs, serpentine springs, or tension springs. You can identify the type by looking at the shape and arrangement – coil springs are coiled wires, serpentine springs are S-shaped, and tension springs are used for counterbalancing the footrest.
How do I ensure the correct installation of the new footrest springs?
After detaching the old springs, take note of their arrangement. Install the new springs in the same manner and secure them firmly. If your recliner uses tension springs, make sure they are properly tensioned.
What should I do after replacing the footrest springs?
After replacing the springs, it’s a good practice to lubricate the footrest mechanism. This ensures smoother operation and can help prevent future wear and tear.
Why is my recliner footrest not operating smoothly even after replacing the springs?
If your footrest is not operating smoothly post replacement, it could be due to incorrect installation or tensioning of the springs. Recheck the placement and tensioning of your new springs. If the issue persists, consider seeking help from a professional.
Conclusion:
Replacing the springs in a recliner footrest can significantly enhance your comfort and extend the life of your recliner.
While it might seem a tad technical, with the right tools and a systematic approach, you can achieve this task smoothly.
Remember, the key to a successful replacement lies in understanding the types of springs and their installation process.
By doing this, you can restore your recliner to its original state of comfort and enjoy many more relaxing moments in your favorite chair.
Meet our new author, Daniel Davis, the recliner guru at Furniture Comfy! With a career history rich with experience from leading recliner establishments like Lazy Boy Stores and Ashley Store, Daniel has honed his skills as an expert recliner repairman and consultant. His expertise lies in showcasing different types of recliners and their functionalities to customers, guiding them to their perfect match.
Now retired, he is passionate about sharing his wealth of knowledge with the wider audience of the recliner industry. Daniel will be your go-to source for all recliner-related guides, be it how-to’s, fix-it tutorials, or detailed product reviews. His years of hands-on experience in the industry make him a trusted guide in the quest to find the best recliner for your needs.
If you have any queries or suggestions, or if you simply wish to reach out to Daniel, feel free to contact him at Daniel@furniturecomfy.com.
