A wonky office chair will not only reduce your productivity but can also lead to chronic backache if you are forced to sit at a weird angle to be able to access your desk and computer. But you don’t have to buy or throw out your chair if it does not stay up or lean back.
Here are some easy tips to fix an office chair that won’t stay up.
1. Replace the pneumatic cylinder
An office chair uses an air compressing mechanism commonly known as a pneumatic cylinder to adjust the seat’s height. When you change the height, the internal control valve adjusts pressure in the gas cylinder, causing the chair to move up or down.
As such, if your office chair keeps sinking, then it means that the cylinder is not functioning correctly. Ensure you find out the gas cylinder type your chair uses before buying one.
But it is relatively easy to find a generic replacement that will work with your office chair. Then look for an online tutorial for replacing gas cylinders. This method will increase the lifespan instead of it ending up in a landfill. It will also help your office chair just like a new chair.
Read Also: The best reclining office chair with a footrest
2. Fixate the chair height
This entails using one of two methods to ensure the chair stays in place and does not move up or down. It will hinder chair height adjustment, but it is the cheapest way to ensure that your chair does not keep sinking.
Method 1: PVC pipe method
- Measure the length of the chair cylinder and the diameter of the cylinder.
- Then get a PVC pipe that is slightly larger than the cylinder diameter and cut it to size.
- Ideally, you should cut it at a height that suits your seating needs. But you can always add an extra PVC pipe piece to adjust the height.
- Then cut a slit into the pipe lengthwise and install it over the PVC like a cover.
- Make sure you use a thick gauge PVC pipe to stay in place and support the chair base efficiently.
Method 2: Jubilee clip or hose clamp method
- Get a jubilee clip or hose clamp that is big enough to cover the gas cylinder’s diameter.
- You will also require a screwdriver and duct tape.
- Set your seat to the preferred height, then use the clamp or jubilee clip to clamp the seat in place.
Read Also: The best chairs for those who sit for long hours
Conclusion
Before going on a fixing bender, try to oil the height lever to see if it will help. You should also clean the chair cylinder first to see if it will make a difference. If this fails, then you can get around to using the steps above to fix the chair.