Electric recliner chairs, also known as risers, lift chairs or rise and recline chairs, are motorized armchairs that are designed for maximum comfort and optimal customization. They are most commonly purchased by people who experience mobility difficulties in getting in and out of a traditional armchair, but are in fact suitable for anyone who wants to find a comfortable armchair that is "just right".
Choosing the fabric, color and style of your electric recliner chair is the easy part; most manufacturers produce electric recliner chairs that can be custom-made to suit the decor of your home and your personal tastes. The width, height and type of cushioning can also be altered according to your needs, but the more important decision is choosing which features you require your chair to have. Obviously, the greater your budget, the more features you will be able to afford, but that does not necessarily mean that the most expensive chairs are best for you. It is important to carefully consider why you need an electric recliner, who will use it, how long you will use it for, and whether your needs are likely to change.
Bed Leg Risers
The most basic electric recliner chairs have a single motor with a control pad that regulates both the seat back and the footrest at the same time. These chairs typically recline to an angle of around 45 degrees, which is ideal if you will spend most of your time sitting in the chair to watch TV, read or chat to friends and family. They also provide the essential riser motion that will allow you to easily, comfortably and safely sit down in and stand up from your chair. They are very easy to use since there are only two options: to rise, or recline.
If you have more money to spend, and don't mind slightly more complicated controls, a two-motor electric recliner might be better for you. These chairs have independently controlled seat backs and footrests, allowing you to change the position of one without affecting the other. This type of chair is great for those who like to put their feet up whilst still sitting upright, and who like the occasional afternoon nap in a fully reclined and extended chair!
Other features that can be found on some models of electric recliner are massagers, which gently vibrate your back or feet to give you a relaxing massage; heated chairs that warm the muscles at the touch of a button; and "zero gravity" chairs that have the ability to raise the feet higher than the heart - these are perfect for people with certain medical conditions such as swelling in the legs or deep vein thrombosis.
Whatever features you decide to go for on your electric recliner chair, make sure that you purchase from a reputable dealer, ideally one that gives you a satisfaction guarantee whereby you can try the chair before committing to keep it. Alternatively, visit several dealers and try the chair out in the store before purchasing. Electric recliners are built to serve you for many years and it is crucial that you don't pick one that you will be unhappy with in the long term.