Recliners are chairs that can be adjusted into a reclined position, providing you with a comfortable place to sit and relax. They typically have a backrest that can be tilted backwards, a footrest that can be extended, and an adjustable headrest for added comfort.
Recliners come in a variety of styles and designs, including manual recliners, power recliners, rocking recliners, wall-hugger recliners, and lift recliners.
Some recliners are designed for specific purposes, such as massage recliners, heated recliners, and outdoor recliners. Regardless of the style, the primary purpose of a recliner is to provide a comfortable, adjustable seating option for people who want to relax and unwind.
Types of Recliners
There are several types of recliners. The most popular ones are:
- Manual Recliners
- Power Recliners
- Rocking Recliners
- Wall-Hugger Recliners
- Lift Recliners
- Massage Recliners
- Heated Recliners
How Do Manual Recliners Work
Manual recliners work by using a series of springs, gears, and levers that are connected to a lever or handle on the side of the chair. When you pull the lever or handle, the gears and levers engage and cause the backrest to tilt backwards and the footrest to extend. The tension of the springs can be adjusted to control how easy or difficult it is to recline the chair.
Typically, the mechanism of a manual recliner operates using mechanical leverage, which allows you to use a small amount of effort to achieve a large movement. The lever or handle is connected to a series of gears and levers that transfer your effort into motion, causing the backrest and footrest to move. The gears and levers are typically housed in a metal frame inside the chair, and they work together to provide a smooth, controlled reclining motion.
How Do Power Recliners Work
Power recliners are chairs that are powered by an electric motor and can be adjusted with the push of a button. They are convenient and easy to use, and they offer a wide range of recline positions for maximum comfort. Power recliners also come with dual motors and they’re called dual power recliners.
The mechanism that powers a power recliner typically consists of a motor, a gear system, and a series of springs and levers. When you press the button to recline the chair, the motor engages and powers the gear system, which in turn moves the springs and levers that control the backrest and footrest.
The motor and gear system are usually housed in the base of the chair and are controlled by a small circuit board that receives input from the buttons or remote control. The circuit board controls the motor and ensures that the backrest and footrest move smoothly and in a controlled manner.
Some power recliners also have a memory function that allows you to store your preferred recline position, so you can easily return to it with the push of a button. Additionally, some power recliners have features such as heated seats, built-in massage motors, and USB ports for charging devices.
Power recliners are also really good after surgeries. Here are the best recliners after shoulder surgery if you wanted to have a look at them.
I’ve also published a post on how to lubricate power recliners.
Here are a few tips to adapt a recliner for right arm surgery.
How Do Rocking Recliners Work
Rocking recliners are recliners that combine the comfort of a recliner with the soothing motion of a rocking chair. They typically have a rocking mechanism built into the base of the chair that allows you to rock back and forth while in a reclined position.
The mechanism that powers a rocking recliner typically consists of a series of rocker arms, springs, and levers that are connected to the base of the chair. When you begin to rock in the chair, the rocker arms pivot on the springs, causing the chair to move back and forth.
The recline mechanism of a rocking recliner operates similarly to that of a manual or power recliner. The backrest and footrest can be adjusted with a lever or a button, and they are connected to a series of gears, springs, and levers that transfer the motion to the backrest and footrest.
The combination of the recline mechanism and the rocking mechanism provides a comfortable and relaxing seating experience, allowing you to recline in the chair and enjoy the soothing motion of the rocking mechanism. Some rocking recliners also have features such as heated seats, built-in massage motors, and USB ports for charging devices, which add to the comfort and convenience of the chair.
How Do Wall-Hugger Recliners Work
Wall-hugger recliners are recliners that are designed to recline while remaining close to the wall behind the chair. This is achieved by using a unique recline mechanism that allows the chair to recline without requiring a lot of extra space behind the chair.
The mechanism of a wall-hugger recliner typically consists of a series of gears, springs, and levers that are connected to the backrest and footrest of the chair. When you recline the chair, the backrest and footrest move backwards, but the base of the chair remains close to the wall behind the chair.
The unique design of a wall-hugger recliner allows you to enjoy the comfort of a recliner in a smaller space. It is particularly useful for people who have limited space in their homes or apartments, as it eliminates the need for extra space behind the chair for reclining.
Wall-hugger recliners are available in both manual and power versions, and they can be just as comfortable and functional as other types of recliners. They often feature the same comfortable padding, supportive springs, and relaxing recline positions as other recliners, making them a great choice for people who want a comfortable seating option that fits in a smaller space.
I’ve also published a detailed post on what are cuddler recliners. Make sure you read that too.
How Do Lift Recliners Work
Lift recliners are typically powered by an electric motor and use a lifting mechanism to raise the chair from a reclined position to an upright position.
The mechanism that powers a lift recliner typically consists of a motor, a gear system, and a series of springs and levers. When you press the button to raise the chair, the motor engages and powers the gear system, which in turn moves the springs and levers that control the backrest and footrest.
The lifting mechanism of a lift recliner operates in a similar way to the recline mechanism of a power recliner. However, the lift mechanism is designed to raise the chair to an upright position, making it easier for people with mobility issues to stand up.
In addition to the lift mechanism, lift recliners often have a variety of other features that add to the comfort and convenience of the chair. For example, they may have a heated seat, a built-in massage motor, or a USB port for charging devices.
How Do Massage Recliners Work
Massage Recliners are designed to simulate the sensations of a professional massage and can be adjusted to target specific areas of the body, such as the back, neck, legs, and feet.
The massage mechanism of a massage recliner typically consists of a series of vibration motors that are strategically positioned to target specific areas of the body. The motors are controlled by a computerized control panel that allows you to select different massage modes and adjust the intensity and duration of the massage.
In addition to the massage motors, massage recliners often have a variety of other features that add to the comfort and relaxation of the chair. For example, they may have a heating function that warms up the seat and backrest, a recline mechanism that allows you to recline the chair to a comfortable position, and adjustable armrests that provide additional support.
To use a massage recliner, you simply recline the chair to a comfortable position, turn on the massage function, and adjust the settings to your desired massage mode and intensity. The massage motors will then begin to provide a soothing and therapeutic massage experience, helping to relieve stress, tension, and muscle soreness.
How Do Heated Recliners Work
Heated recliners are recliners that are equipped with a heating element that provides warmth to the seat and backrest of the chair. The heating element is typically powered by electricity and is designed to provide a comfortable and soothing heat experience.
The heating mechanism of a heated recliner typically consists of a heating element, such as a carbon fiber or metal wire, that is positioned in the seat and backrest of the chair. The heating element is connected to an electrical power source and is controlled by a switch or a remote control.
When you turn on the heating function of a heated recliner, the heating element begins to warm up the seat and backrest, providing a comfortable and soothing heat experience. The heat is distributed evenly throughout the chair, ensuring that you feel comfortable and warm from head to toe.
In addition to the heating function, heated recliners often have a variety of other features that add to the comfort and convenience of the chair. For example, they may have a recline mechanism that allows you to recline the chair to a comfortable position, adjustable armrests that provide additional support, and a massage function that provides a relaxing and therapeutic massage experience.
To use a heated recliner, you simply recline the chair to a comfortable position, turn on the heating function, and adjust the heat to your desired temperature. The heating element will then begin to warm up the seat and backrest, providing a comfortable and relaxing heat experience.
Conclusion
Recliners come in various types, each with its unique features and functions.
Whether it’s a manual recliner that relies on the user’s strength to recline, a power recliner that uses a motor to recline, or a rocking recliner that provides a gentle back-and-forth motion. I am quite sure you’ll find something that is suited for your needs.
If you already have a recliner and your recliner is a bit squeaky, I’ve shared a detailed post on how to fix a squeaky recliner.