How to Lower an Adjustable Bed Without Power
If your adjustable bed is raised and the power goes out, you may still be able to return it to a flat position using its battery backup or emergency-lowering feature. The exact method varies by model, so avoid forcing the bed down by hand or disconnecting parts unless your manufacturer specifically instructs you to.
Quick Answer
Check underneath the base for a battery backup compartment connected to the control box. Many adjustable beds use 9-volt batteries only for emergency lowering during an outage. Install fresh batteries if needed, then use the remote’s Flat button while the backup is connected. Do not try to push the bed flat by hand.
What You May Need
Before looking underneath the base, gather:
- A flashlight or your phone flashlight.
- Fresh 9-volt batteries, if your base uses them.
- Your adjustable bed remote.
- The owner’s manual or model number.
- Someone to help if the bed is high or hard to reach.
- Clear space around the bed frame.
How to Lower an Adjustable Bed During a Power Outage
Try a lamp or phone charger in the same outlet. If the outlet is working, check the adjustable base power cord, power supply, and any power strip before using the emergency backup.
Most emergency systems are near the control box underneath the base. Look for a small battery case or a 9-volt battery connection attached to the control box wiring.
Some bases need two 9-volt batteries; others use a different backup arrangement. Follow the markings on the battery compartment or the instructions for your exact adjustable base.
Once the backup is connected, press the Flat button or the buttons that lower the head and foot sections. Emergency batteries are usually designed to lower the bed, not to provide normal repeated operation.
If the Flat button does not respond, try lowering the head and foot sections separately. Keep hands, cords, pets, and bedding clear of moving frame parts.
Once normal power returns, replace any emergency batteries you used. Many bases cannot lower during the next outage if the backup batteries are dead, missing, or disconnected.
Do Not Force the Bed Down by Hand
Adjustable bed frames are powered mechanisms. Pushing, sitting heavily on, or trying to manually fold a raised section down can damage the motor, frame, or hinges—and can cause injury. If your base has no battery backup and cannot be lowered safely, contact the manufacturer or a qualified service provider.
If the Bed Will Not Lower With Battery Backup
- Confirm the batteries are new and installed correctly.
- Check that the battery pack is connected to the control box.
- Try the head and foot down controls separately.
- Look for a loose power or motor connection under the base.
- Check your manual for an emergency-lowering procedure.
- Call manufacturer support with the base model number.
Find Your Base’s Emergency Instructions
Battery backup systems are not identical. Use the manual for your exact adjustable base to confirm the location of the emergency batteries and the correct way to lower the bed during a power outage.