What should I do if my lift chair makes unusual noises during operation?

If your lift chair makes a new, loud or unfamiliar noise, stop using it until you have identified the cause or had it assessed. Grinding, scraping, repeated clicking, knocking, juddering and high-pitched squealing can indicate an obstruction, a loose component, worn mechanism or an electrical fault. Continuing to operate the chair may worsen the problem or create a safety risk.

First, release the handset and allow the chair to stop fully. Check the area around the chair for objects that could be rubbing against the frame or mechanism, such as footwear, blankets, cables, toys or furniture. Look at the footrest, side panels and gaps around the chair without putting your hands underneath it. Do not reach beneath a moving or powered chair.

Some operating sounds can be normal. A lift chair may produce a steady motor hum, a brief mechanical sound as the actuator starts or stops, or a small click from the handset or control system. These sounds should not usually be accompanied by jerky movement, a change in speed, unusual vibration, a burning smell or difficulty reaching the fully raised, reclined or upright position. A sound that is new, becoming louder or occurring with changed movement should be treated as a fault.

Once the chair is stationary, carry out these safe checks:

• Check that the chair is not touching a wall, table, skirting board or another item as it moves.
• Make sure the power cable and handset lead are clear of the moving parts and have not become trapped or stretched.
• Check for loose items in the seat, footrest area or around the chair base.
• Look for visible damage, loose upholstery, displaced covers or anything rubbing against the frame.
• Confirm that the plug is fully inserted and that there is no visible damage to the cable, plug or socket.

Do not remove the chair’s covers, lubricate the mechanism, tighten internal fixings or attempt to adjust the motor or actuator yourself. Lift chairs contain moving parts and electrical connections that may be inaccessible or unsafe to handle. Using an unsuitable lubricant can also attract debris or affect components that are not intended to be lubricated.

If the noise stops after removing a visible obstruction, operate the chair only while standing clear and watching its movement. Stop immediately if the sound returns, the chair moves unevenly, the footrest does not close correctly or the chair hesitates. Do not repeatedly test it if the cause is uncertain.

Unplug the chair from the mains if this can be done safely, particularly if you notice a burning smell, smoke, sparking, overheating, damaged wiring or an electrical buzzing sound. Do not touch damaged cables or continue using the chair until it has been inspected. If the chair is occupied and cannot be returned to a safe position, avoid forcing it and seek assistance.

Contact Independent Stairlifts for a professional assessment if the noise continues, comes from beneath the chair, is accompanied by unusual movement or has no obvious external cause. Describe when the sound occurs, such as during lifting, reclining, raising the footrest or returning upright, and whether it happens with or without a person seated. This information can help identify whether the issue is more likely to involve the actuator, drive mechanism, frame, handset or power supply.

Keep the chair out of use until advice has been provided or the repair has been completed. A timely inspection can identify worn or loose parts before they affect stability, movement or the chair’s ability to assist you safely.