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Wobble, Sink, and Roll: A Comprehensive Guide to Fixing Common Office Chair Problems

Wobble, Sink, and Roll: A Comprehensive Guide to Fixing Common Office Chair Problems

Do you find your office chairs to be annoying and squeaky? Do you face issues rolling your chairs smoothly and find them sinking day by day? It’s high time that you pay attention to your chairs and fix them up before you encounter slips and falls resulting in injuries. Yes, you have heard that right! We often tend to neglect squeaky and faulty office chairs, but they can prove to be dangerous when left unaddressed. With employees spending 8 hours or more on their office chairs, these seating beauties are prone to wear and tear and malfunction, causing inconvenience and injuries. Thus, immediate attention should be paid to fixing wobbly chairs and addressing other chair issues for good. Here in this guide, we will pen down the three major problems that you experience in your office chairs and DIY methods to fix them: 

Problem 1: Sinking Chairs 

Sinking office chairs usually happen due to faulty pneumatic cylinders that are responsible for the height adjustment feature of chairs. The cylinder uses compressed air that helps in raising or lowering the chair when the adjustment lever is used. However, over time, the seal of the cylinder wears out, causing a loss of air pressure in the cylinder, which further causes the chair to sink gradually. So here are we list down a few ways by which you can fix a sinking chair: 

The PVC Pipe Method 

This method is one of the easiest and most popular DIY methods of fixing sinking chairs. All you need is a PVC pipe that can be easily wrapped around the metal cylinder of the chair.  Here is how you will proceed further with this DIY hack:  

  • Measurement: Firstly, you are required to measure the length and diameter of the chair. Next, take off the plastic casing that covers the cylinder and measure the visible part. Ensure that the PVC pipe wraps securely around the cylinder without any gaps. 

  • Cutting: Using a pipe cutter, you need to accurately cut the PVC pipe according to the desired length. Also, make sure that you trim the pipe so that it matches the chair height. You can consider cutting it into sections if you wish to seek height adjustment features.

  • Installation: Slide the pipe firmly over the cylinder until it is securely placed over it. This will serve as a solid support that will restrict the chair from sliding down and sinking any further.  

The PVC pipe method is a simple and cost-effective method for fixing chairs without the usage of any fancy tools. However, this method sets your chair at a particular height. 

Hose Clamp and Duct Tape Method 

If you do not have a PVC pipe or wish to try other methods of fixing sinking chairs, you can also try the hose clamp and duct tape method for temporary fixes.  

  • Firstly, adjust the chair to your preferred height.
  • Now, start wrapping the duct tape across the metal cylinder, which will provide the hose clamp a stable surface to hold onto securely. 
  • Secure the clamp firmly around the taped section just above the plastic base to prevent the chair from sliding downwards.  

Though this method won't make your chair look glamorous or attractive, it can extend the lifespan of your chairs for months.  

Gas Cylinder Replacement 

If you are seeking a long-term fix, replacing the gas lift cylinder is one of the most effective solutions. You can easily find budget-friendly universal replacement cylinders online to get a solution for your sinking chairs. You will need to buy a replacement cylinder, lubricant, and a rubber mallet or a pipe wrench to get started with this method. Here is how you can proceed with it:  

  • Detach the cylinder by pulling apart the seat and base of the chair. 
  • Slide the new cylinder into place until it fits snugly.
  • Reattach the base, and your chair is ready for use.  

While this DIY method is a bit complicated and requires more effort, it is a permanent fix and extends the lifespan of your chairs while ensuring full functionality, even height adjustment. 

Problem 2: Wobbly Chairs 

Wobbly chairs lose their balance due to broken casters, uneven leg length, or loose components in the seat or base. Such a condition of chairs can prove to be dangerous, as it can even lead to falls. Not only are such chairs annoying, but a safety hazard that can pose a risk to your body and result in back problems over time. So, if you are looking for ways to fix a wobbly chair, here is how you can get started:

Secure the screw and bolts 

Loosened parts are the primary culprits behind wobbly chairs, which occur due to loose screws and bolts, due to regular movement and usage of chairs. Here is how you can fix it.  

  • Turn the chair upside down
  • Take an Allen wrench and screwdriver and tighten any screws, fasteners, and bolts that you find hanging loose. 
  • If you find any screws or bolts missing, make sure that you replace them for a better grip.  

Glue it back together 

Wobbly legs or backrests often occur in wooden chairs due to weakened joints. So, if tightening the parts doesn't help, you might need to glue them together to fix wobbly chairs. Here is how you can proceed with gluing:  

  • Carefully detach the affected and loose parts.
  • Wipe out any old glue residue that remains on the surface using sandpaper or a chisel.
  • Take fresh glue and reassemble the pieces, sticking the parts in the right place. 
  • Secure it all together and allow it to dry for at least a day.  

Use Brackets and Braces for Extra Support 

Even after gluing and tightening the screw and bolts, you may experience weak and creaky chairs. This can be further fixed with brackets and braces. Here is how you can get started:  

  • Fix metal corner brackets beneath the seat or at the joints between the legs and stretchers to provide extra support to your chairs.
  • Attaching these brackets makes the chairs more stable, durable and minimises the risk of future loosening. 

Pro Tip: If your chair’s base is severely cracked and damaged, consider replacing the chair altogether rather than trying to fix it because even the slightest negligence can result in injuries and serious accidents. 

Problem 3: Chairs With Rolling Issues 

Rolling chairs are basic office staples that are found almost in every office, owing to the comfort and ease of mobility that such chairs offer. But, over time, wear and tear and regular usage cause issues in the proper rolling of the chairs and make them feel stiff. Usually, the caster wheels are the primary reason behind such rolling issues.  Do you also often struggle with rolling issues in your office chairs and experience difficulty in dragging them across the floor? Here is how you can fix it up: 

Clean the Casters 

Turn the chair upside down and clean the wheels thoroughly. Get the wheels rid of any dirt, debris, hair, or plastic caught in the wheels to trigger swift movement of the wheels.  

Lubrication 

Sometimes lack of lubrication on the wheels can also cause hindrance to the ease of movement. So, if you are experiencing stiff chairs, make sure that you lubricate the wheels to get the casters back into action. 

Replacement 

In some cases, the wheels may have incurred damages that are beyond repair and have worn out considerably. Consider replacing the wheels in such a case, you can easily find them in online stores. Just pull out the old casters and slide in new ones to get your chairs rolling like new.  

Conclusion 

By following the above guide, you can easily extend the lifespan of your chairs without spending much and enjoy comfortable seating at the office. However, if the problem still persists and your chairs turn out to be beyond repair, replacing them is always a smart and safe option because chair accidents can cause severe injuries. 

Looking for stylish and comfortable office chairs? EasyMart online store has got you covered. It is a wholesome online store where you can find office furniture in all categories that promises quality, style, and comfort in all aspects. Whether you look forward to setting up a new office space or consider replacing your old office furniture, EasyMart is your one-stop destination to get a stylish office upgrade. So, what are you waiting for? Visit the EasyMart store now to say hello to Ergonomic excellence! 

 

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