What should I do if I notice unusual noises or movements from my lift chair?

If your lift chair makes an unusual noise or moves unevenly, stop using it, switch it off and arrange a professional assessment if the problem does not disappear after a basic visual check. Grinding, clicking, knocking, scraping, jerky movement, unexpected stopping or movement on one side can indicate an obstruction, loose component, control fault, worn mechanism or power-related issue. Continuing to operate the chair may worsen the fault or create a safety risk.

Before checking the chair, make sure nobody is sitting in it and keep hands, feet, clothing and pets away from the moving parts. Return the chair to a safe position only if it can do so normally and without forcing the controls. Then switch it off using the handset or chair controls and isolate the power at the socket if this can be done safely. If your chair has a battery backup, switching off the mains may not stop every function, so do not attempt to operate the chair while investigating.

Carry out only simple external checks:

• Look for objects caught beneath the footrest, seat, base or between the chair and a wall.
• Check that rugs, cables, blankets and other items are not touching or restricting the mechanism.
• Make sure the chair has adequate clearance to recline and rise without contacting nearby furniture.
• Check the mains lead, plug and visible connections for obvious damage, but do not dismantle the chair.
• Look for signs of movement in the frame, loose external fasteners, tilted upholstery or a base that is no longer sitting level.

Do not remove covers, reach into the mechanism, adjust internal components or apply oil or other lubricant unless this is specifically instructed in the chair’s manual. Lift chair mechanisms can move with considerable force, and incorrect adjustment or lubrication can damage the equipment or affect its safety controls. Do not continue pressing the handset to see whether the noise clears, and do not allow anyone to sit in the chair while it is behaving abnormally.

Some operating sounds can be normal, including a quiet motor sound or a brief click from a switch or control. However, a new, louder or repeated noise should be treated as a fault, particularly if it occurs with jerky movement, a change in speed, an uneven footrest, rocking, failure to stop correctly or difficulty returning to its normal position. A lift chair should move smoothly and predictably throughout its operating cycle.

Stop using the chair immediately and contact Independent Stairlifts if you notice smoke, a burning smell, sparking, excessive heat, damaged wiring, exposed components, sudden uncontrolled movement or a loud grinding or cracking sound. If there is an immediate electrical or fire hazard, keep away from the chair and follow appropriate emergency safety procedures. Do not reconnect or operate it until it has been checked.

When you contact us, describe what the chair was doing, which function was being used, whether the noise occurred when rising, reclining or lifting the footrest, and whether the problem happens every time or intermittently. If it is safe to do so, note the chair’s position when the fault occurs. A short recording made from a safe distance can also help identify the issue, but do not deliberately recreate a dangerous movement.

Independent Stairlifts can assess the chair, identify whether the cause is mechanical, electrical or related to the controls, and advise whether a repair or replacement part is required. Keep the chair out of use until it has been assessed if the unusual noise or movement continues, as early attention can prevent a minor maintenance issue from developing into a more serious fault.