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Why Does My Office Chair Keep Sinking?

If you’ve ever felt your chair dropping lower than you set it, you’re not alone. A sinking office chair is usually a sign that the gas lift cylinder is losing pressure, the height‑adjust lever is worn, or something’s stuck in the mechanism. It can make you feel uncomfortable, ruin your posture, and waste time readjusting every few minutes.

Common Causes and How to Spot Them

First, check the gas lift. Most modern chairs use a pneumatic cylinder that can leak after years of use. When you press the lever and the seat drops, then won’t stay up, that’s a clear leak. Next, look at the adjustment knob or lever. Dirt, coffee spills, or just plain wear can jam the moving parts, causing the chair to slip back down.

Another often‑overlooked issue is the base. A cracked or bent five‑star base can shift weight unevenly, making the cylinder work harder and fail sooner. If your chair wobbles before it sinks, the base is probably the culprit.

Simple Fixes You Can Do Today

1. Tighten the lever. Grab a screwdriver and tighten any visible screws around the height‑adjust lever. Sometimes a loose screw is all that’s needed to stop the drift.

2. Lubricate the mechanism. Spray a little silicone grease on the moving parts of the lever and the cylinder’s top rod. This reduces friction and helps the lock stay in place.

3. Replace the gas cylinder. You can buy a replacement cylinder for under $30 online. To install, turn the chair upside down, tap out the old cylinder with a rubber mallet, and slide the new one in. It’s a quick DIY that restores the original lift range.

4. Check the base. If the base is cracked, replace the whole base assembly. Most manufacturers sell a universal base that fits most chairs.

If you’re not comfortable taking the chair apart, a local office‑furniture repair shop can handle these steps in under an hour.

Beyond fixing the immediate problem, keep your chair in good shape by cleaning the adjustment lever weekly, avoiding heavy loads that exceed the chair’s weight rating, and using a mat under the chair to protect the floor and reduce wobble.

Having a stable, adjustable chair is essential for a comfortable workday. With these quick checks and fixes, you’ll stop the sinking and enjoy a proper seating height that supports good posture and productivity.

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