Who doesn’t love a good chair to relax in? Having a comfortable recliner chair could make a huge difference to your ability to unwind, have family time or take a nap. There are a few steps to consider when looking for the best electric recliner chair, and we’re here to make the process as simple as possible for you! Follow our simple steps to get you on your way to finding the best chair for you:
1. The obvious! Do you need an electric lift and recline chair?
Electric lift chairs have a motor and are usually operated by a hand-held remote. If you struggle getting in and out of your existing chair, and like the idea of having a remote to recline easily, you definitely should consider a recliner chair. Having an electric motor means the chair supports you and takes your weight as you sit and stand, and also reclines to a comfortable position. You can recline with your legs elevated, and head back.
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2. Do I need a single or dual motor?
Did you know that most chairs are either operated by a single motor or dual motors? Both options will lift the chair up and down for getting in and out of the chair. However, a dual motor electric chair as the name suggests, has two motors can provide you infinite positioning. This means you can raise your legs separately to the back function, and you can also recline much further than a single motor lift chair.
In comparison, a single motor chair will have a simple remote that allows you to recline and sit back up. Your legs and head go back at the same time. A bonus of the single motor electric lift and recline chairs is that they are easier to operate with a simple handset. They also take up less room to recline as they can sit closer to the wall. This is also known as ‘space saver’ or ‘wall saver’. Although you may not be able to lie completely flat or adjust your legs separately, you can still find a very comfortable position with a single motor electric chair.
Dual motor lift chairs are especially good for those who suffer from lymphedema, swelling, heart disorders or other medical conditions as the legs can usually be raised to the same level, or higher, than the heart, promoting better circulation.
3. How to pick the correct size lift chair?
Getting the right size chair is highly important! You need to ensure your feet can touch the ground when you are seated on the chair. Your head should be supported by the back rest when seated, and still be comfortable when reclined. It’s important to have enough seat width while still being able to rest your arms easily on the armrests. All chairs have a Safe Working Load (SWL) which needs to be adhered to. Be sure to take personal measurements if you are buying a chair online and ask a family member or carer to help you measure if you need a hand. We always recommend trying your chair in store before you buy where possible.
4. How long can you use the recliner chair each day?
For those who spend a lot of time each day in a chair, it’s important to get a chair that will provide you adequate support and pressure relief. People who sit or lie for extended periods of time are at a risk of gaining a pressure sore. Having a chair that delivers pressure care is very important for people who will sit for a long time in their chair. It is also important to think ahead, and know that elderly people will sit or recline for extended periods and having a quality chair that will serve you in the future is essential.
5. Do you need a customised electric chair?
Some reclining electric chairs can be customised to suit you personally. Some of these options include specific back height, seat depth and width, armrest height and seat height. The remote control can also be switched to the left or right side depending on your preference. This is especially handy for stroke suffers who need the best options with their electric lift chair. Many people also like to have the option of massage in their reclining chair. Some chairs come with a USB charger in the hand remote control so that you can charge your phone or device. How cool is that?
Our favourite Australian made, high quality lift chairs that can be fully customised include chairs by Oscar Furniture and Topform.
Chairs can also be covered in various designs and fabrics. Oscar Furniture and Topform especially have a wide range of fabrics to choose from. Most chairs will come with fabric and colour options making it easier for you to match your lift chair in with your home. Leather and vinyl options make keeping your electric chair clean and hygienic a lot easier. You can also purchase waterproof and absorbent chair pads for incontinence which protect your chair. We always recommend having at least two, so you always have one spare while the other is in the wash.
We hope this guide helps you in your journey towards finding the right electric lift and chair.
