How to Adjust Recliner Tension
Are you tired of your favorite recliner creaking and groaning every time you lean back? Don’t worry – fixing this issue is far simpler than it may seem! In this article I’ll show you how to adjust recliner tension. All you will need is a screwdriver, a wrench, and just a few minutes of your time. Excessive friction can cause the reclining feature on your favorite chair to be unreliable or noisy.
Fortunately, with the help of my guide, adjusting the tension in practically any type of upholstered furniture won’t be difficult at all! Keep reading to learn how one simple procedure can make an important difference when it comes to improving the longevity and performance of your beloved recliner. This will help you learn how to adjust recliner chair!
Most recliners are equipped with a pair of wing nuts or thumb wheels underneath the seat that let you adjust the reclining mechanism tension. First make sure that the leg rest is closed, then tilt the chair forward so it rests on the tips of its arms and the top of its back so you can see underneath the chair.
Recliner Repair Tools

Tools like these will make it easier to adjust the tension spring wing nuts, even if you can do it by hand:
- Multi-tool
- Pliers
- Flashlight
When your hands get too small to turn the wing nuts, you can use a multi-tool or pliers to get them to turn. If you’re in a dimly lit room, the flashlight will help you see the tension springs. While you’re adjusting the springs, you may want to have someone hold the flashlight for you.
What You Need to Do to Adjust Recliner Tension

There are various mechanisms for recliners that allow for the back and footrest to be pushed out or raised, depending on the user’s preference. Following these instructions will help you fix a recliner’s faulty mechanism:
Tension In the Recliner
Checking the recliner’s tension is the first step in the repair process. The first step is to see if the recliner’s backrest is working properly by leaning back on it. When the backrest becomes too stiff while reclining, the user needs to loosen up a bit of the tension. In addition, if the recliner reclines too quickly, the user will need to increase the tension on the recliner.
Flip The Recliner Over or Tilt It
A recliner must be flipped so that its arms and headrest are on the floor. In order to ensure that the chair’s back is in an upright position, the user can also tilt the recliner forward.
Check the Mechanism for Adjustment
Only a recliner with thumbwheels underneath or behind the seat can be adjusted for tension. The recliner‘s tension can’t be adjusted if there are no thumbwheels. Thumbwheels are sometimes replaced by wingnuts, allowing the user to fine-tune the tension of their recliner themselves. Thumbwheels should be installed on both sides of the recliner, according to experts. Thumbnails and tension springs can be seen at the bolt’s end, and the bolts themselves can be seen extending from the right to the left.
Mechanism for rotating the adjustment
A recliners’ tension is adjusted by rotating the thumbwheels in either direction, clockwise or anticlockwise. The user can fix the recliner by repeatedly checking the recliner’s manual and following the necessary basic instructions. If the user is unable to turn the adjustment mechanism with his fingers, he can use a pair of sturdy pliers.
The Adjustment Mechanism Can Be Tested
To complete the process, the user has to flip the recliner back over and bring it back to its upright position once more. To test the recliner’s adjusting mechanism, the user must sit and lean back on it. In order for the recliner to be comfortable, it must first be adjusted by the user.
Re-do All of the Adjustments

Finally, you’ll have to go through the entire process again to make it more comfortable. It’s advised against overtightening the straps because doing so can cause them to snap. If the tension spring moves after making the adjustments, the user must turn the mechanism clockwise to tighten it. It is also necessary to turn anti-clockwise to loosen a spring that is too tight.
Ways to Make Your Recliner Chair More Comfortable
Tension springs should be replaced
The tension springs in your reclining chair may need to be replaced if you notice that the chair’s back isn’t working properly. This is the device that allows the chair’s back to recline. You’ll need to flip the chair over in order to replace the springs. The back of the chair is attached to a tension spring. Removing the old spring is easy if you have pliers handy.
The new spring should be stretched out before being installed, so that it will fit properly. There are places that sell the reclining chair’s springs and other components. All you have to do is make sure the ones you buy are long-lasting and of high quality.
Recliner Pitch Change
Reclining pitch refers to how high a recliner’s front end rises when the back is straightened. The recliner pitch can be altered by adjusting the bolts at the bottom of the recliner. Bolts that are usually found in the chair’s center bottom can be seen when it is turned upside down. In total, the chair’s frame is held together by four bolts. You can adjust the chair’s frame by loosening the bolts. You can alter the chair’s recliner pitch by adjusting the frame. This will allow you to get the most out of the chair.
Bеnеfitѕ оf Slееping in a Recliner
After a long day at work, nothing beats sinking into a comfortable recliner. In the bedroom, living room, entertainment room, terrace, or even the garden, this can be positioned. There are a variety of reclining chairs available. You can pick the most appropriate one for the location and level of comfort you’re aiming for. Relying on the right reclining position of the chair will allow you to sit back and relax.

Prevent Muscle Pain
Back pain can be eased by sleeping in a recliner, provided you have a good chair with adequate lumbar support. Sleeping in a fully reclined position with both legs elevated can help relieve pressure on your back and decompress the spine because your back is constantly under stress during daily activities.
Strengthening of the Circulatory System
Recliner chairs allow gravity to naturally reduce stress and inflammation by allowing you to sleep comfortably in a recliner position. A new study found that patients who recovered in recliners were able to return home sooner and more comfortably than those who recovered in traditional hospital beds.
Breathe Easier with These Tips
When you sleep in a recliner, your diaphragm is free to expand, which makes it easier to breathe. Snoring, sleep apnea, heartburn, and acid reflux can all be avoided with improved breathing. Preventing heartburn and indigestion is another benefit of keeping your stomach acid levels where they should be.
Improves Digestion & Absorption
An improved digestive system is a prerequisite for ѕоund sleep devoid of breathing issues. When you sleep on your side or in a fetal position, your digestive system is unable to function properly. Taking a full recline in a recliner chair allows your body to rest and digest what’s inside.
How Do You Slеер in a Reclined Position Properly?

It’s possible that you’re wondering, “How can I use my recliner to get the most out of it?” After reading about the pros of sleeping in one. Choosing to sleep in a recliner chair has its advantages:
Slеер with the chair fully reclined
- According to Very Well Health. This happens when you’re on your back, flat on the ground. In a neutral position, the legs are typically extended out straight in front of you.
- Using a pillow to support your neck while you sleep can help you get a better night’s sleep.
- The pillow can be hugged for extra comfort if you prefer to sleep оn уоur side. A blanket is also a good idea.
Switch Position
While trying to fall asleep, if you find yourself wide awake, it’s time to switch positions. During the course of our nightly slumber, we frequently toss and turn in an effort to find the best sleeping position. If you lie on your side or back for an extended period of time, however, you run the risk of putting excess pressure on your spine.
Find a position that works best for you – Everyone’s body is unique. It’s possible that what makes you feel at ease isn’t the same for others. In order to find your own place, it’s important to follow the above guidelines and find your own position. The ideal angle for a semi-reclined position is between 110 and 130 degrees.
FAQ’s About Adjusting Recliner Tension
How do I adjust the tension on my recliner?
To adjust the tension on your recliner, locate the tension adjustment mechanism, which is usually located on the underside of the seat. Use an appropriate tool, such as an Allen wrench or a screwdriver, to turn the tension adjustment bolt or knob in the desired direction.
Now turn it clockwise to increase tension for a firmer recline, or counterclockwise to decrease tension for a more relaxed recline. Test the recliner after each adjustment to find the desired tension level.
What should I do if my recliner’s tension adjustment doesn’t seem to work?
If you’re experiencing difficulties with your recliner’s tension adjustment, there are a few steps you can take. First, ensure that you are using the correct tool and applying the right amount of force when turning the tension adjustment bolt or knob. If it still doesn’t work, check if there are any obstructions or debris preventing smooth movement.
Now clean the mechanism and try again. If the problem persists, it’s advisable to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact customer support for further assistance.
Can I adjust the recliner tension on all types of recliners?
Recliners can vary in design and functionality, so not all recliners may have a tension adjustment feature. However, many modern recliners do offer this option. Look for a tension adjustment mechanism under the seat or consult the recliner’s user manual to determine if it has this feature.
If your recliner doesn’t have a tension adjustment mechanism, it may have other means of adjusting the recline angle, such as a lever or a lock. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to learn how to adjust your specific recliner.
How To Adjust A Recliner Chair
A recliner is a popular piece of furniture designed for relaxation and comfort. It is typically upholstered and features adjustable positions that allow individuals to recline and elevate their feet as desired. To fully enjoy the benefits of a recliner, it is crucial to know how to adjust it properly. The process of adjusting a recliner involves locating the various controls, which are usually located on the side of the chair.
One can then adjust the backrest tilt and footrest position by simply pushing or pulling the appropriate levers or buttons. These adjustments can be made to suit individual preferences and maximize comfort. Knowing how to adjust a recliner ensures that it functions optimally and provides a satisfying seating experience for its users.
To Summarize: Recliner Back Tension Adjustment
To adjust the back tension on a recliner, follow these steps: 1. Locate the tension knob or lever usually found on the underside of the chair. 2. Turn the knob clockwise to increase tension or counterclockwise to decrease it. 3. Test the chair by reclining and sitting up to find the desired tension level. Make adjustments until it feels comfortable for your preference.
My Conclusion
It is common for people to wonder if it is safe to ѕlеер in a rесlinеr every night, so we hope that this post answers your questions. Sleeping on a mattress or a recliner at the end of the day is the best way to end the day. Adjusting a recliner at home is as simple as you may have realized.
By modifying it, you can make it fit your specific requirements and preferences. Ensure that you thoroughly test it out before deciding on the tension that works best for you. Please leave any comments below. Thank you for reading!