4x White Bar Stools Adjustable Leather Chairs by Artiss

Why Is My Gas Lift Bar Stool Sinking? Causes and Fixes

If your gas lift bar stool slowly sinks when you sit on it, the gas cylinder is usually worn and losing pressure. Check the stool is still under warranty first. If it isn’t, the fix is to replace the whole gas cylinder — never try to open or repair the cylinder itself, as it’s pressurised.

Common causes

  • Worn cylinder seals: the most common cause, especially on stools used every day for years.
  • Standing or kneeling on the stool: using it as a step puts heavy, uneven loads on the cylinder.
  • Over the weight limit: check the maximum load in the product details.
  • Heat: long periods in direct sun or near a heater can affect the seals.
  • Loose fittings: sometimes it’s not the cylinder at all — a loose base or seat plate can make the stool feel like it’s dropping.

Quick checks before replacing anything

  1. Tighten all screws and bolts on the seat plate, footrest and base.
  2. Check the lever isn’t stuck in the “down” position or catching on the seat underside.
  3. Sit, lift the lever, stand up and let the seat rise fully, then release. If it holds, the issue may have been the lever.
  4. If it still sinks under weight, the cylinder is worn.

Is it covered?

If your stool is new and sinks, contact the seller. Under the Australian Consumer Law, products must be of acceptable quality and last a reasonable time. If you bought from us, contact us with your order number and a short video, and see our refund policy.

Replacing a gas cylinder

Replacement cylinders are available from furniture repair and office chair suppliers. You’ll need to match the cylinder’s size and taper. Removing an old cylinder can take firm force, so many people use a furniture repairer. If you DIY, follow the cylinder maker’s instructions and never cut, heat or open the cylinder.

If the stool is older or the cylinder is hard to match, replacing the stool is often the simpler option. See gas lift stools or switch to a fixed-height timber stool.

How to make gas lift stools last

  • Never stand or kneel on the seat.
  • Sit down gently rather than dropping onto the seat.
  • Keep within the weight limit.
  • Keep stools out of long periods of direct sun.
  • Tighten fittings every few months.

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FAQs

Why does my gas lift stool keep going down?
The gas cylinder is usually worn and losing pressure. Check for loose fittings or a stuck lever first.
Can you fix a sinking gas lift bar stool?
Yes, by replacing the whole gas cylinder. Never open, cut or heat the cylinder, because it is pressurised.
How long do gas lift bar stools last?
With normal use and no standing on the seat, they last for years. Heavy loads, heat and using the stool as a step shorten their life.
Is a sinking new stool covered by warranty?
A new stool that sinks may be covered under the Australian Consumer Law. Contact the seller with your order details.

More answers in our bar stool buying guide & FAQ, or read counter stool vs bar stool height and how many stools fit your island.

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