How to Fix an Office Chair that Won't Stand: 5 Simple Steps

There are quite a few distractions when working from home without an office chair that make it difficult for you. One common issue with office chairs is that they do not hold up well for one reason or another. Constantly adjusting your chair to the right position throughout the workday can be frustrating, so we have put together a quick fix guide.

Find our step-by-step guide on how to fix an office chair that won't go down.
Why can't my office chair stand up?

There are several reasons why your office chair may not be able to stand, but the most common reason is that the gas cylinder is worn out and needs to be replaced. If the chair loses its lift, it will not be able to stand properly and will require regular adjustments. There are health risks if you sit for long periods in a chair that is not the right height for you. This can lead to strain on the neck as well as other aches and pains if you are not in an ergonomic position with your desk and screen.

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to fix an office chair that won't stand up.

Use a hose clamp

One way to fix a chair that can't stand is by using a hose clamp. There are a few easy steps you can follow to do this.

1. Remove the plastic cover from your chair
Many chairs have plastic covers that are visible on top of the metal cylinder. You need to access the metal tube so that you can install the hose clamp.

2. Adjust the chair to the height you desire.
This step is important because you may not be able to adjust it later. Your chair should be aligned with your knees when standing for maximum comfort.

3. Take the cylinder and tighten the hose clamp.
"You can buy a hose clamp at any hardware store. Once you have it and follow the previous steps, pull the end with the belt and wrap the clamp around the metal cylinder of the chair."
"The clamp must be strong enough to hold the chair, we recommend wrapping tape around it to improve grip."

4. Tighten the hose clamp
"Once you are sure you have set the correct seat height, you can tighten the hose clamp. Hold the top of the metal cylinder and slide the clamp up. Finally, pull the hose clamp and turn the screw to tighten it."

5. Test your chair
You can now test your seat. The clamp should prevent the seat from slipping down and keep the seat at the correct height. If you feel you have set the wrong height, you may be able to adjust it by holding the clamp and moving it higher or lower.

'If this method solves the problem and your chair still cannot stand, there is another way you can try.'

Use PVC Pipe
PVC pipe is another item you can use to help keep your chair upright. It may require more work than hose clamps, so it's best to try that method first.

1. Measure your chair cylinder
Remove the plastic cover from the metal cylinder and use a ruler to estimate its diameter. You do not need an exact measurement, but you can calculate it if you wish.

2. Buy a long PVC pipe
The purpose of this pipe is to be installed over the metal cylinder of the seat and provide extra support. So, you want to look for a pipe that has a diameter roughly the same as the cylinder. Buy enough pipe to extend from the axle distance to the seat mount.

3. Install the PVC pipe
You have two options here. You can saw the PVC pipe lengthwise to create a slot that will attach to the chair cylinder. We recommend using a mask when cutting PVC to avoid inhaling irritating particles. Your other option is to remove the chair base and slide the pipe towards it.

4. Add more pipes to adjust the height
To increase the height of your chair, raise it and add more PVC pipes. This will prevent the chair from lowering and fix the issue.

5. Test your chair
"You can now test your chair. The PVC pipe should function like a hose clamp and prevent your chair from dropping to an uncomfortable height."

"If this does not solve the problem, it may be worth investing in a new office chair or a better office chair. Oscar Living is the largest and most complete office furniture equipment center in Indonesia. Oscar Living is the official distributor of renowned office furniture products in Indonesia such as Ergotec, Morelli, Chairman, Savello, Subaru, Uno, Gresco, Brilliant, Modera, Highpoint, Lunarsol."