Types Of Lift Chairs

Lift chairs can be found in a great variety of styles and types, each of which are designed differently to provide more utility, comfort or functionality.

The different types of mechanisms for lift chairs can be confusing however, so take a look below at the more common types you will come across so you can educate yourself before speaking to a sales person when purchasing your chair.

Infinite Position

Dissimilar to other types of lift chairs, infinite position lift chairs feature more than one motor. The reclining of the seat is controlled by one motor, while the second is responsible for the control of the foot rest’s height. By utilizing the hand control on this type of chair, one may adjust the foot of the chair and its back rest independently, in various combinations.

This provides the user with a limitless number of settings from which to choose.

Three Position

Three position models offer a way to sit in 3 positions when using the chair. One of these is an upright position, similar to the way one would sit in a traditional chair which does not recline.

One can also choose to position himself or herself at a 45 degree angle, which is a common position preferred by many individuals when watching TV or reading.

The three position lift chair recliner is a complete recline, in which one can rest or sleep. Similar to other lift chairs, one can utilize a mechanism which will move the chair into a position that will assist him or her to rise.

Two Position

Two position models are considered standard recliners, and similar to other lift chairs, feature a mechanism that helps the user to get in and out of the chair with relative ease. Once seated in the chair, a person can choose an upright position or the aforementioned 45 degree reclining position.

One Position

Lift-only chairs, sometimes referred to as one-position models, are the most simplistic of all models available. They are manufactured to be quite similar to the dinner chairs or wingback chairs that one most likely has in other areas of his or her home.

The difference is that these chairs come with a lift mechanism in order to assist its user with sitting and rising. This style is recommend for those who are not interested in a reclining chair or who prefer a chair that coordinates better with their existing furnishings.

Because they do not recline, these chairs are typically the least expensive of all the aforementioned models.

Zero Gravity

Zero Gravity models have two motors just as the infinite position models; however, they also feature the ability to place the person into the “Zero Gravity Position.” This position keeps an individual’s legs above his or her heart and provides open space between the thighs and torso.

This position is frequently advised for people with lower back pain, poor circulation, or reduced lung capacity.

Bariatric

When considering an appropriate option, one popular choice that stands out amongst the different lift chair types is a Bariatric Lift Chair because it can bear a large amount of excess weight, as compared to standard types.

In general, a lift recliner is built to carry approximately 300 pounds, but bariatric lift chairs can support more than 500 pounds. These chairs have deeper and broader seats and run on dual electric motors.

The Wall Hugger is another unique lift chair type. To allow any lift chair to recline totally, a standard type would need to be positioned at least 18-24 inches away from any wall. However, wall huggers are made to recline even when positioned well near a wall. Generally, they are 3-postion and best suited for places with limited floor space.