How to Fix a Sinking Office Chair

This is a picture of a black office chair.

Does your office chair keep sinking whenever you sit in it? Office chairs do sink, but don’t take it lightly when your chair won’t stay up every time you sit in it. You must maintain a good sitting posture to avert the likelihood of developing spinal problems. It’s not fun when you find yourself straining to reach your computer keyboard while sitting at your desk. Do something. Knowing how to fix a sinking office chair can help avoid health issues besides saving money on buying a new chair.
If your faulty office chair is too old, fixing it may just be a temporary solution. It is likely to develop another problem in the near future. Office chairs or desk chairs often start sinking as their cylinders wear out over time. Choosing to replace the cylinder is as good as buying a new chair. So, consider purchasing a new chair from a trusted dealer.

The Best Way to Fix a Sinking Office Chair

We repeat: When your chair starts sinking, start planning on either replacing its cylinder or purchasing a new one. That’s the best fix. However, there are other ways of making the chair reusable if you are not yet ready to meet the cost of replacing the cylinder or acquiring a new one. This article covers two temporary ways on how to fix a sinking office chair and make it reusable. Read on.
Office Chair

Why Does My Office Chair Keep Sinking and How Can I Fix It?

Office chairs use either a hydraulic or pneumatic mechanism for the upward and downward adjustment. It’s that cylinder that connects the seat to its base. The mechanism fails as the cylinder wears over time. You try to pull the chair lever, and nothing happens. So what’s the difference between the hydraulic and pneumatic office chair options?
The hydraulic mechanism uses a fluid, typically oil. On the other hand, the pneumatic mechanism uses nitrogen gas. Nowadays, a lot of office chairs use pneumatic technology because it is eco-friendly. The downside of hydraulic technology is fluid leaks when the cylinder begins to wear.
Now your office chair sinks and disgusts because it’s no longer comfortable sitting in it as you work for long hours. Is fixing it a DIY thing? Take a look at the following to find out.

Methods Used To Repair the Sinking Office Chair

The following methods can help you fix your sinking office chair:

Install a PVC Pipe

What you’ll require

  • A measuring tape
  • A screwdriver
  • A hammer
  • A marker
  • A hacksaw

These are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Take the dimensions of the cylinder using your measuring tape. You need to estimate its diameter and the suitable height to which you would like to adjust the chair.
Step 2: Cut the PVC pipe to the length that fits between the base and the seat. Make sure the piece you cut can lift the chair to the height you want.
Step 3: Remove the wheelbase and fix the pipe around the cylinder. It should stop the chair from moving down.
Step 4. Fit back the wheelbase and test your chair. If you feel the height is still low, cut another piece of pipe and fix it below the first pipe.
That solves the sinking issue. Quite easy, right? But you should be content with one fact: this method changes your chair from adjustable to fixed mode. You won’t be able to adjust it up and down.
Fix a Sinking Office Chair

Hose Clamp Method

You can also fix a hose clamp between the seat and the wheelbase to stop the chair from sinking. The things you require are:

  • A 2cm hose clamp
  • Duct tape
  • Screwdriver

Do as follows:
Step 1: Push up or down the plastic tube covering the chair’s cylinder. You should be able to see the metallic cylinder.
Step 2: Adjust the chair to the desired height and carefully wrap the cylinder using the hose clamp.
Step 3: The hose clamp should be tight enough to maintain the chair at the preferred height. You can achieve that by wrapping duct tape at the top of the cylinder. Next, tighten the screw on the hose clamp to give it a firmer grip on the cylinder.
Step 4: Test your chair to see if it is at the right height. Of course, it won’t be able to move up and down as it used to when the cylinder was functional.

Adjust the tension

Most office chairs have a tension adjustment knob or lever that you can use to adjust the resistance of the chair. If the chair is sinking, try tightening the tension to see if that fixes the problem.

Check the base

If the base of the chair is damaged or has become loose, it can cause the chair to sink. Try tightening any loose screws or bolts, and make sure the base is stable and secure.

Replace the seat cushion

If the seat cushion is worn out or damaged, it may not be providing enough support, which can cause the chair to sink. Try replacing the cushion to see if that fixes the issue.

Consider a new chair

If none of the above solutions work, consider buying a new office chair. Look for a chair that is designed for ergonomic support and comfort, and make sure it has a good warranty.

At Office Furniture Warehouse, we deliver chairs that guarantee you matchless comfort, long-lasting durability, and an affordable price. Send us a message today, and let us help you improve your office experience.

We Offer Comprehensive Solutions from the Most Innovative Brands

Why should you put up with a sinking chair only to develop spinal complications that are costly to manage? Office Furniture Online are masters of office furniture solutions. We understand the challenges that come with uncomfortable office chairs. That’s why we specialize in office chairs and other office furniture that meet industry standards.
Our solutions ensure you maintain the correct sitting posture at all times when sited at your desk. That’s advisable as far as work ergonomics is concerned. Besides, our furniture is light and easy to move when the need arises. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us and let us know your office furniture needs. We’ve got the right solution for you whether you are looking for high-end executive desks or comfortable chairs for workstations. Call us today!

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