Common Parts to Replace on Pedicure Chairs (and When to Do It)
Pedicure chairs are the workhorses of your nail salon, delivering comfort, functionality, and relaxation to your clients every day. But like any piece of salon equipment, they experience wear and tear over time. Knowing which parts commonly need replacing—and when—is key to keeping your chairs running smoothly, avoiding costly repairs, and maintaining a professional experience for your clients.
Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly replaced pedicure chair parts and how to spot when it’s time for a swap.
1. Jet Motors & Jet Covers
Why they fail:
Jet motors work hard to create that relaxing whirlpool experience, but buildup from hard water, oils, and frequent use can wear them out.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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Jets aren’t spinning or are making unusual noises
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Weak or no water movement in the tub
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Leaks or water backup
Pro tip: Opt for pipeless jet systems for easier maintenance and sanitation.
2. Massage Motors & Massage Rollers
Why they fail:
The massage system is often the first thing a client notices—when it’s not working properly, the experience suffers. Daily use can wear out motors and internal components.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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No movement or massage function
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Grinding noises or inconsistent operation
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Remote unresponsive or partially functioning
Good to know: Massage motors can be replaced individually—no need to swap the whole system unless multiple parts are failing.
3. Remotes and Control Panels
Why they fail:
Remotes are subject to spills, wear, and sometimes frustrated button mashing! Over time, buttons stick, wires wear out, or the electronics fail.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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Buttons not responding
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Display not lighting up
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Inconsistent chair or massage control
4. Footrest Pads & Covers
Why they fail:
Footrests take a lot of abuse—water, polish, acetone, and pressure from clients all contribute to wear and cracking.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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Cracked or peeling vinyl
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Torn seams
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Stains or odor that won’t go away
Bonus: New footrest pads can instantly freshen up the chair’s look!
5. Water Pumps and Drain Pumps
Why they fail:
These are essential for proper water flow and drainage, especially in plumbed chairs. Over time, clogs, mineral buildup, or motor fatigue can cause problems.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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Slow draining
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Water not filling properly
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Strange humming or failure to turn on
6. Chair Upholstery & Cushions
Why they fail:
Vinyl and cushions degrade over time—especially with constant use, cleaning, and chemical exposure.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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Cracking or sagging cushions
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Torn fabric or seams
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Discoloration or hard-to-remove stains
7. LED Lights & Decorative Components
Why they fail:
Though not essential for function, broken lights or worn decorative pieces can affect your salon’s aesthetic and client impression.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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Flickering or dead LEDs
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Broken plastic accents or logos
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Outdated design elements
Final Thoughts
Replacing parts before they completely fail not only extends the life of your pedicure chairs but also prevents downtime and protects your salon’s reputation. Keeping a few key replacement parts in stock can save you time and stress when something goes wrong.
Need help finding parts? We carry a full range of replacement components for most major pedicure chair brands. Contact us anytime—we’re here to keep your salon running beautifully!
