Midmark exam chairs are some of the most trusted and widely used pieces of equipment in medical and dermatology practices. Known for their heavy base plate (weighing around 400 pounds), these chairs maintain a low center of gravity, offering unmatched stability even with heavier patients raised high in the air. Compared to lighter alternatives like Silverfox chairs, which lack a stabilizing base and can feel top-heavy, Midmark chairs are safer, sturdier, and built with high-quality American-made motors and components.
They don’t use real leather — instead, Midmark opts for synthetic fabrics and plastics in non-structural areas, while relying on durable metals and actuators that are designed to outlast most competitors. Still, no piece of equipment is immune to wear and tear. Below are the most common Midmark chair problems users encounter, what causes them, and how to fix or prevent them.
Hand Controller Cable Damage
One of the most frequent (and preventable) issues involves the hand controller. Many users hang the controller over the armrest mounting rail, letting it dangle. Over time, the constant tension frays the coiled black cord, eventually exposing internal wires. Once this happens, the controller stops working and the only fix is a replacement cable — a $350 part.
Signs to watch for:
- Cracks or breaks in the black coiled cord
- Exposed wires underneath the plastic insulation
- Intermittent or no response from the controller
Solution: Avoid hanging the controller on the armrest. Instead, use inexpensive mounting buttons or holsters (around $7 each) that attach to the armrest rails. These keep the controller secure and dramatically reduce wear on the cord.
Footrest Not Moving Up or Down
If the footrest isn’t responding, it’s often not an electrical issue at all but rather a safety lockout built into the chair’s design.
Common causes:
- The storage drawer located beneath the seat isn’t fully pushed in. If extended, it blocks footrest movement to prevent a collision.
- The footrest extension is partially pulled out. Unless fully retracted, the chair won’t allow movement.
Fix:
- Push the under-seat drawer fully in until it clicks.
- Retract the footrest extension completely.
- If the problem persists, unplug and replug both the chair and the controller to reset connections.
These are simple user checks that can save a service call.
Chair Completely Unresponsive (No Movement at All)
Sometimes a Midmark chair will stop responding entirely after a power surge or fluctuation. This happens when the control board’s memory is disrupted.
First steps to try:
- Unplug and replug the chair.
- Disconnect and reconnect the controller.
If that doesn’t work, the issue may require a memory reset procedure on the main board. Important note: this must be performed by a certified technician. Attempting to reset the board incorrectly can further corrupt the memory and even damage the circuitry, requiring a full board replacement.
Other possible causes include blown fuses or a failed control board, but these are usually diagnosed after the simpler checks.
Controller Ports and Connector Damage
Another frequent issue comes when multiple controllers (hand and foot) are plugged in. Sometimes the hand controller stops working while the foot control still functions.
The culprit is often the connector at the back of the chair. Staff walking around the chair may accidentally kick the plug, bending or damaging the small pins inside. Once bent, the controller will no longer communicate with the chair.
How to fix:
- Disconnect the controller and inspect both sides of the connector. Look for bent or broken pins.
- Check the socket on the chair itself for damage.
- If damaged, send the controller in for service or replacement.
Prevention: Install a protective security bracket around the connector. These brackets act like guards, preventing accidental kicks from damaging the port.
Actuator Motor Wear
Though Midmark uses durable American-made actuator motors, they can wear out over years of use. Signs include jerky chair movement, failure to fully raise or lower, or strange noises when adjusting positions.
Solution: Worn actuators require replacement. While less common than cable or connector issues, actuator failure is still a predictable maintenance concern after long-term use.
Best Practices to Prevent Midmark Chair Problems
- Always use holsters or mounting buttons for hand controllers.
- Keep the under-seat drawer and footrest extension fully retracted before adjusting chair positions.
- Protect connectors with security brackets to prevent accidental kicks.
- Unplug and replug after power fluctuations before calling for service.
- Schedule preventive maintenance yearly to inspect actuators, fuses, and wiring.
Final Thoughts
Midmark chairs stand apart from cheaper alternatives thanks to their heavy base plate, stability, and reliable American-made motors. However, even the best chairs require proper handling and maintenance. Most problems — from damaged cords to blocked footrests — come down to user habits and can be avoided with simple best practices.
By addressing small issues early and taking preventive steps, you can dramatically extend the life of your Midmark exam chair while reducing costly repairs and downtime.
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