Have you ever felt the slow descent of your office chair, as if you're being betrayed by the very seat meant to support you? You're not alone. Here at Desks Inc in Portland, OR, we've seen many an office worker look askance at their treacherous chair. But fear not! Before you decide to toss it out and buy a new one, let's explore the fun world of chair troubleshooting. Yes, it can be fun! Stick with us.
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of chair repair, let's understand what causes the chair to sink. Most office chairs use a pneumatic cylinder for height adjustment. Over time, like all things, they can wear out. But before you think of this as a boring technical malfunction, picture it as the air slowly letting out of a balloon... only, this balloon is your majestic office throne! HowStuffWorks has a great breakdown.
Fixing a sinking chair doesn't require a master's in engineering. For this DIY repair, you'll need:
Always start by turning the chair over. You want a clear view of the offending cylinder without the risk of the chair rolling away. If you're worried about scratching your floor, place a mat or towel underneath.
Using your pipe wrench or pliers, grip the top of the pneumatic cylinder. Rotate it counterclockwise. This should release it from the adjustment lever. If you're feeling like a bit of an office mechanic now, that's because you are!
Here's where the hose clamp or zip ties come into play. Place your clamp (or tie) around the cylinder, ensuring it's positioned where it'll prevent the chair from sliding down. Tighten it up, and voila! No more sinking.
Put everything back together and give your newly fixed chair a test. It should stay up, supporting you like the trusty steed it once was.
If, after your valiant efforts, the chair still betrays you, it might be time for a replacement cylinder or even a new chair. But don't think of it as a failure. Think of it as an opportunity! An opportunity to check out the fantastic collection we have at Desks Inc. Or if you're wondering what to look for in a new chair, check out our
handy guide to picking the perfect office throne. Remember, there's no shame in seeking help. Our experts at Desks Inc can offer guidance on chair repairs or help you select a new one that won't let you down (literally).
In the grand scheme of office life, a sinking chair is a minor hiccup. But it's these little challenges that make our day interesting. With this guide, not only have you added another feather to your DIY cap, but you've also made your workspace a bit more fun. Next time you're in Portland, swing by Desks Inc and share your chair tales with us. We love a good story, especially one with a happy ending!