Looking into how far should a riser recliner be from the wall is an important part of purchasing a riser and recliner chair. Not only can placing your chair too close to the wall put it at risk of becoming damaged, but the wrong position can also affect the comfort of your recliner riser.
At Opera Beds, our network of highly skilled engineers is on hand to install your new chair in the perfect position in your home. To find out more about our hassle-free installation process and premium electric riser chairs, get in touch with our team today.
How Far Should a Riser Recliner Be From The Wall?
The exact distance that you should place your new riser and recliner away from the wall will vary from chair to chair. We recommend always referring to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific recliner model, particularly the back height and reclining mechanism.
As a general rule of thumb, a standard riser recliner should be positioned at least 2 feet away from the wall when upright. This will allow for the back of your chair to fully recline without hitting the wall. Some riser and recliner chairs, affectionately called wall huggers, move forward as they recline - this means they only need to be placed a few inches from the wall, but need a little more space in front.
Harry, Sales Manager at Opera Beds, shares their expertise on how far should a riser recliner be from the wall below: "To ensure full functionality and avoid any damage to your riser recliner, we recommend placing it at least 18-24 inches away from the wall. This space is crucial because if the chair is too close to the wall, it can restrict the reclining and lifting mechanisms, potentially leading to wear and tear or even malfunction. By allowing enough room, you ensure the chair operates smoothly, providing you with maximum comfort and longevity."
What Happens if You Put Your Riser Recliner Too Close to the Wall?
Positioning your recliner riser too close to the wall can have negative consequences for both the user and the chair itself, including:
- Not being able to fully recline can impact your chair’s functionality.
- The motor inside your riser recliner could be damaged if the chair can’t move.
- Forcing a chair to recline without enough space can put strain on the mechanism. This can lead to premature wear and tear.
- If the back rubs against the wall, it can damage the material and upholstery of the chair. This can also cause scratches and scuffs on your wall.
- Users might feel restricted or experience pressure on their back if the chair doesn’t fully recline.
- If something fragile gets in the way of your reclining chair there’s a likelihood it could get damaged.
Things to Consider When Positioning Your Chair
Working out the ideal distance from the wall is essential to ensure optimal functionality and comfort. Aside from the specific recliner size and type, there are a few key things to consider when positioning your new recliner riser chair.
Room layout
The layout of your living room - or alternative space where you’re putting your new riser recliner - will impact the placement of your chair. When finding the perfect position, consider factors such as the size of the room, where the doors and windows are, and the position of any other furniture in the room.
Accessibility
Accessibility is another key consideration when positioning a riser recliner. Make sure you can easily get in and out of your new chair without having to move any other pieces of furniture, and that your chair isn’t obstructing any walkways or doorways.
Personal preferences
While the distance a recliner riser should be from the wall greatly depends on the design of the chair, personal preference also plays a part in this decision. Many individuals prefer to have their electric recliner right up against the wall. For others, leaving a fair bit of space between their chair and the wall is preferred.
Power source
Electric riser recliner chairs or those with additional power features need to be connected into a power source. This means you’ll first need to find somewhere you can plug your chair in when thinking about its placement.
Aesthetics
How far your riser and recliner is from the wall can greatly affect the overall look and feel of the room, and many like to position their chair to complement the other furniture and décor. Alternatively, you can match the design by opting for a riser recliner that's made with premium upholstery, like those at Opera Beds.
Tips for Positioning Your Riser Recliner
After you have considered the above factors, make sure to also keep the following tips in mind during the installation process:
- During the initial set up, make sure there is enough space behind your chair for the backrest to recline fully.
- Take care not to turn the power cable into a trip hazard - ideally, you should have a power socket behind your recliner riser.
- Check your chair is level before using it. Remember you can adjust the feet of the chair so it’s sat flat.
- Place a small side table next to your riser and recliner with a phone on it. This can be used in case of emergency.
The Perfect Position Demands the Perfect Chair
Finding the right place for your new riser recliner is just one half of the battle - you also have to find the right chair, too. Our team of experts can advise you on the right electric reclining chair for your needs and lifestyle, before hand-delivering and setting up the furniture in your home. Arrange a free no-obligation consultation to explore our range of chairs today.
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