We have all used them. Office chairs are found in homes and businesses, allowing us to comfortably work for hours on end. Have you ever wondered how much weight one of these chairs can hold?
If you are overweight, the weight limits of some items likely concern you. After all, no one wants to sit down in an office chair and have it break. We are here to set your mind at ease and give you answers to this question and more. So, how much weight can a standard office chair hold?
What Factors Determine the Weight Limit of an Office Chair?
As you can probably guess, the number one factor affecting the weight limit of office chairs is the materials they are made from. Many cheaply made office chairs hold little weight because the base and frame are made of plastic only.
Manufacturers of office chairs sometimes cater to the big and tall, and they will use heavy-duty steel bases to permit higher weight limits. Those who are overweight or simply want a more durable chair should spend a little more money to purchase one with a metal base.
You need to know the pneumatic gas chamber of the office chair also has a weight limit. Those who are on the larger side will need a heavy-duty class 4 pneumatic gas chamber. Standard gas chambers should be fine for people of average weight.
How Much Weight Does a Standard Office Chair Hold?
Standard office chairs hold around 250 pounds. Some can go as high as 300, but you should not push the weight limits. It is essential to select a chair that holds more than your weight.
How Much Weight Does a Big & Tall Office Chair Hold?
Big & Tall office chair manufacturers offer office chairs that hold much more weight than standard versions. These chairs can typically hold between 300 to 800 pounds, depending on the materials and craftsmanship.
What Happens If You Go Over the Weight Limit?
Overall, we are becoming more overweight as a world population. Because of the increase in obesity, office chair manufacturers now clearly state the weight limits on their chairs.
By stipulating a weight limit on office chairs, manufacturers reduce their liability for damages. Before we answer the question of what happens if you go over the weight limit, we need to make something clear.
Weight limits are not a true measurement of the top weight an office chair can hold. The weight limit placed on the box or chair itself is simply the maximum weight for testing.
You can consider this the same as a best-by date on a box of cookies. The manufacturer has to put an expiration date on the cookies for legal reasons, but eating them after this date is likely fine, as long as there are no odors or changes in appearance.
The same goes for office chairs. Although we do not recommend going beyond the weight limit of a chair, you might could without issue, especially if you are within a few pounds of the limit.
There are a few reasons you should not go over the weight limit of an office chair, including the following.
Standard office chairs have a weight limit of 250-300 pounds.
measuringstuff.com
The Bolts and Screws
Every office chair has bolts and screws that hold the chair to the base. If you push beyond the weight limits of a chair, the bolts and screws will begin to loosen and eventually create a malfunction.
Some cheaper chairs can also lead to problems with the screws coming through the padded seat. Ouch! You do not want to sit down on an office chair and find the screws are impaling your skin.
The Pneumatic Gas Chamber
You can also damage the pneumatic gas chamber if you go over the weight limit of an office chair. A broken chamber can prevent the chair from moving up or down and springing when you sit.
In rare cases, there have been people injured because of explosions occurring in the gas chamber, causing serious injuries and even death.
Tips for Choosing an Office Chair
There are several things you should consider when shopping for a new office chair. We recommend you regard the following.
- Choose an office chair that is height adjustable so you can adjust the chair to keep your thighs horizontal.
- Select a chair with an adjustable backrest for the best level of comfort.
- Make sure the office chair has ample lumbar support.
- Check the seat width and depth, especially if you are above average weight.
- Ensure the office chair has ample padding for comfort and support.
- Reduce neck strain by selecting an office chair that features armrests.
- Make sure the controls are easy to operate.
- Purchase a chair with swivel casters so you can move around easily.
Heed Office Chair Weight Limits for Your Safety
If you are on the larger side, heeding the weight limits of office chairs is critical. You could damage the chair or worse, damage yourself. By heeding the weight limits, you will keep yourself safe and enjoy a comfortable seat for many years to come.