The electric recliner is a staple of any lazy Sunday. With the ability to turn from upright to laying down, it is no wonder that so many people love them.
A recessed handset beneath the chair allows for easy use without getting up, but can become difficult when it time to replace it. This blog post will walk you through how to replace your electric recliner handset switch in five simple steps!
Steps on Replacing Electric Recliner Handset Switch
Step 1. Turn off power to the chair. Unplug it, or turn off the breaker in your home if you are not sure which is appropriate for you.
Step 2. Find a flat surface and put down newspapers on top of that so as not to leave any marks on your flooring
Step 3. Remove armrests from recliner by unscrewing the screws on either side. This will make it easier to access the handset without getting up
Step 4. Remove any plastic caps from your new replacement handset by using a flathead screwdriver
Step 5. Unscrew and remove the old switch, then replace with your newly purchased one
Step 6. Replace armrests and test recliner before turning the power back on. Turn the power back on and enjoy your new handset!
How do I fix my power Recliner?
If your power recliner is not responding to the handset, you may need to replace it. Fortunately, replacing a power recliner’s handset switch can be done in less than an hour.
Step 1. Turn off power to the chair first by unplugging it or turning off the breaker before proceeding with this how-to guide:
Step 2. Remove the armrests of your power recliner to expose the handset and switch. This will make it easier to access them without getting up from your chair.
Step 3. Now use a flathead screwdriver to remove any plastic caps on the new replacement handset (if there are any). If not, skip this step.
Step 4. Remove the old handset from your power recliner by unscrewing the screws. Put them into a container you can label with “old handset.”
Step 5. Connect new replacement to chair’s wiring and screw in place tightly.
Step 6. Replace caps, if there are any on your new phone receiver. If not, skip this step.
Step 7. Replace the armrests of your power recliner. Plugin or turn it on if necessary to test before sitting down and using it again.
Can you manually recline a power recliner?
Yes, most power recliner chairs have a manual function that can be activated by pushing the chair backward with your feet.
However, these are not as easy to use and require more strength to pull back on them. This is why it may be best for you if you just let an electric recliner do the work.
What are the Benefits of Power Recliners?
Reclining chairs with electric functions have numerous health and home care benefits, including:
Easy handle for seniors or those who may not be able to lift heavy objects such as a manual chair;
Ability to adjust your back angle by leaning forward into a sitting position, or by leaning back into a prone position;
Promotes the best posture for your spine and overall health.
When Does it Time to Replace my Electric Elecliner Handset?
Generally speaking, you should replace an electric chair switch when either of these problems arises:
- The electrical clip is worn and doesn’t grip the connection to the outlet;
- The electric recliner is worn and needs a new spring or switch.
It’s easy! All you need are these few items:
Electric Fitting Pliers, which can be found at your local hardware store for just $25-$30 – this cost will vary depending on the size of your recliner.
An electric plug, which can be found at any home improvement store for about $25-$30 – this cost will vary depending on the number and type of outlets you need to cover.
Electric Recliner Switches: available at most hardware stores or online retailers such as Amazon.
How do you Replace a Power Recliner Motor?
Step One: Remove the old switch, which can be done by unscrewing it with a screwdriver or electric fitting pliers.
Firmly grip the new power recliner motor and twist counterclockwise to loosen from its housing.
Insert your fingers into one of two slots on either end of the new power recliner motor and twist to tighten the switch.
Screw-in the electric plug with your screwdriver or pliers.
Make sure your cables are connected from both plugs, then turn on the electricity at the circuit breaker box (or flip if you have a manual toggle).
Step Two: Insert a decorative plate over the top the of switch
Find the plate that was originally on top of your old power recliner motor.
Line up metal prongs with plastic posts on the electric plug and push them firmly down to lock in place.
Step Three: Reattach armrests, seat cushions, or other parts requiring a screwdriver.