Maintaining Your Electric Lift Chair: A Guide to Keeping Your Chair and Loved Ones Safe

If you’ve ever cared for someone who struggles to lift themselves out of a chair, you understand the importance of having assistance. Electric lift chairs provide invaluable support, but it’s crucial to consider maintenance to ensure their longevity and safety. In this supplementary article, we’ll delve into lift chair maintenance and care, helping you keep your chair in prime condition and your loved ones safe.

Basic Precautions

There are three critical areas of your electric lift chair that require specific attention: the motorized lift unit, the backrest, and the footrest. These components are electronically controlled, making them susceptible to damage if not handled with care:

1. Avoid Liquids: Prevent water or liquids from coming into contact with these electronic parts, as it can pose electrical hazards.
2. Electrical Outlet: Always plug your lift chair into a proper three-pronged electrical outlet. Avoid using two-pronged outlets or adapters, as they can lead to safety issues.
3. Extension Cords: Refrain from using extension cords with your chair. This can cause overheating and increase the risk of tripping hazards.

Caring for the Fabric

The fabric of your chair is another crucial aspect of maintenance, and regular inspection is essential:

1. Inspect Regularly: Periodically check the fabric for tears, pulls, or gaps, paying special attention to seams, which are high-stress areas.
2. Use Recommended Cleaners: Clean the fabric with mild, manufacturer-recommended fabric cleaners. Ensure the cleaner doesn’t come into contact with the electronic components.
3. Unplug Before Cleaning: Always unplug the chair before cleaning to prevent electrical hazards.
4. Avoid Solvent-Based Cleaners: Do not use solvent-based cleaners and refrain from soaking the fabric. Use soap sparingly.
5. Incontinence Concerns: If your loved one faces incontinence issues, sanitize and deodorize the fabric while cleaning.

Electrical Care

Maintaining the electronics of your chair might seem daunting, but following these tips can help prevent future problems:

1. Check Wiring: Inspect wiring and wiring harnesses for signs of fraying, damage, or corrosion.
2. Protect from Moisture and Extreme Temperatures: Ensure that the electronic components are shielded from moisture and extreme temperatures, such as heating vents or space heaters.
3. Immediate Action for Electrical Damage: If you discover any electrical damage, promptly unplug the chair and contact your manufacturer-recommended service technician.
4. Battery Replacement: If your chair has backup batteries, check and replace them annually to ensure proper functionality.
5. Clean Controls: Periodically clean chair controls or remote control with a damp cloth. Always unplug the chair before cleaning.

Electric Lift Chair Safety Tips

Here are essential reminders to keep your lift chair and loved ones safe from harm:

1. Not a Toy: Emphasize that a lift chair is not a toy, and children should not use it as one.
2. Cord Placement: Position the power cord where it won’t pose a tripping hazard.
3. Chair Positioning: Ensure your lift chair is placed at an adequate distance from the wall to allow safe operation.
4. Footrest Clearance: Prevent objects from getting under or blocking the footrest.
5. Proper Chair Position: Always return the chair to the down position when not in use and refrain from sitting in it while raised.
6. Weight Limit: Do not exceed the chair’s maximum weight limit.
7. Avoid Reach: Avoid reaching for fallen objects or placing hands under the chair while it’s plugged in.
8. Footrest Safety: Do not permit people to sit or stand on the footrest, and avoid moving or pulling the chair using the footrest.

By adhering to these essential tips and guidelines, you’ll not only ensure the comfort and safety of your loved one for years to come but also extend the lifespan of your electric lift chair.