Here are some essential things to keep in mind when searching for a massage chair. With so much technology available, there are many features to choose from. This can sometimes be distracting to the process of getting a massage. We share some general considerations about the chair buying process. We hope to help you find what is right for you and your budget.

Customer Service & Repair: Evaluate the warranties of each manufacturer. How long is the coverage? Companies like Sanyo and Panasonic only have a 1 year warranty. Others may have 3-5 year warranties (at no additional cost). Also, what type of service will they provide if you have a problem? Do you have to ship your massage chair or take it to an authorized service center? Massage chairs weigh 100lbs to 200 lbs and shipping is expensive. Some manufacturers offer in home service. Be aware before you buy!

Evaluate all the Information: Weigh out the features, styling, warranty, etc for the massage chairs that you like. Also, who is going to use the massage chair? What are their weights and heights? What types of needs do they have and what features are the best to cover those who will use it? Did you get to actually try the massage chairs on your list? If you did not, then you may find a retailer carrying that massage chair in your area. If not, some internet resellers offer a 30 day trial period. However, most will refund your money less all shipping expenses. Check around and find out.

Try Some Massage Chairs: Many malls have stores that carry massage chairs. You should go and try them. You can also go to home shows which usually have massage chairs as well. You will want to sit in them and see how they feel for you. While you are trying them, check out their prices. Most store malls will carry slightly different models than what you find on the internet. Remember that a store has to cover more overhead than an internet site, so they will generally be more expensive at the mall.

Upholstery Material: Massage chairs come in leather, synthetic leather and faux suede. There are advantages and disadvantages to each material. Leather is very wear resistant, but requires more maintenance and cannot be used with heating elements. Synthetic leather or PVC leather has improved dramatically with many materials softer, wear resistant and easy to clean. Faux suede enables many fashionable colors to be used, but may be more problematic to keep clean.

Manual or Power Assisted Recline: These days most massage chairs over $1,500 are power assisted in lowering the chair back and raising the footrest. Manual is with the use of a lever and a hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder will raise the footrest or chair back. The user has to lower the footrest and push back to lower the chair back. Most entry level massage recliners have manual controls. The power assisted recline utilizes a motor for chair back and a motor for the footrest. These operate with a one-touch control and may be integrated into moving with different massage programs.

Whatever perspective you are coming from, find out what benefits you want from a massage recliner. They provide numerous therapies or you can target a particular ailment. Find the best chair for your needs over a 3 to 5 year period. That way, you will have many therapies to choose from for many years to come. Think about how your needs may change through time and find one right for you.