Common Standing Desk Problems (And How to Fix Them)

Wobble and Stability Issues

The most common complaint about standing desks. Some movement is normal, but excessive wobble is both annoying and potentially a sign of problems.

Causes

• Loose bolts or connections
• Uneven floor surface
• Poor quality frame design
• Desk overloaded beyond capacity
• Missing or broken stabilizing components

Solutions

• Tighten all bolts: Go through every connection point and tighten. This is the fix 90% of the time.
• Level the desk: Use adjustable feet (most desks have them) to compensate for uneven floors.
• Add a crossbar: If your desk doesn't have one, aftermarket crossbars can significantly improve stability.
• Reduce load: If you're near capacity, remove some weight and see if stability improves.
• Check floor: Soft carpet or unstable flooring contributes to wobble. A chair mat or board under the legs can help.

Motor Won't Work or Desk Won't Move

Possible Causes

• Power issues (unplugged, outlet problem, power strip off)
• Cables not connected properly
• Motor overheated (thermal protection engaged)
• Obstruction triggering anti-collision
• Control panel malfunction
• Motor failure

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check power: Verify the desk is plugged in and the outlet works (test with another device).
2. Check connections: Ensure motor cables are fully connected to the control box.
3. Clear obstructions: Make sure nothing is blocking the desk's movement path.
4. Wait and try again: If the motor overheated, wait 15-20 minutes and try again.
5. Reset the desk: Most desks have a reset procedure (check manual). Usually involves holding down/up buttons simultaneously.
6. Contact support: If nothing works, the motor or control box may need replacement.

Desk Moves Unevenly (One Side Higher Than Other)

Cause

Motor desynchronization—the two legs (in dual-motor systems) or the synchronization mechanism (in single-motor systems) has gotten out of alignment.

Solution

Run a reset procedure. For most desks:

1. Lower the desk to its minimum height
2. Hold the down button for 5-10 seconds after reaching bottom (desk may make clicking sounds)
3. Release and test normal operation
4. If this doesn't work, check your desk's specific manual for its reset procedure

Excessive Motor Noise

Causes

• Overloading the desk
• Obstruction in movement path
• Loose components vibrating
• Motor wear or damage

Solutions

• Reduce weight on the desk and see if noise decreases
• Check for obstructions (cables, items touching moving parts)
• Tighten all bolts and connections
• If noise is grinding or metallic, stop using and contact manufacturer

See our noise guide for more on expected vs. problematic sounds.

Cable Management Issues

Cables that worked fine at sitting height can become a problem at standing height—pulling tight, getting caught, or looking messy.

Solutions

• Cable management tray: Mount under the desk to gather cables in one place
• Cable chains/spines: Flexible channels that accommodate movement
• Extra cable length: Replace tight cables with longer ones
• Strategic routing: Route cables along the leg that moves least
• Wireless where possible: Wireless keyboard/mouse eliminate some cables entirely

Our cable management guide covers this in detail.

Keypad/Control Panel Problems

Common Issues

• Display not lighting up
• Buttons unresponsive
• Memory presets not saving
• Error codes displayed

Solutions

• Check connection: The keypad cable may be loose—reseat it
• Reset: Perform a desk reset (procedure varies by brand)
• Error codes: Check manual for error code meanings—they often indicate specific issues
• Replace keypad: If the keypad itself is faulty, replacements are often available from manufacturers

Desk Surface Problems

Scratches and Wear

• Use a desk pad or mat to protect surface
• Lift items rather than sliding them
• Minor scratches can sometimes be buffed out depending on material

Warping

• Usually caused by moisture or humidity
• Keep drinks in spill-proof containers
• Wipe up spills immediately
• If warped, the desktop may need replacement

Standing Fatigue and Discomfort

Not a desk problem per se, but very common. If you're uncomfortable standing:

Solutions

• Anti-fatigue mat: Essential for comfortable standing—hard floors are punishing
• Proper footwear: Don't stand barefoot or in poor shoes
• Take breaks: Don't stand all day; alternate with sitting
• Check height: Incorrect desk height causes strain. See our setup guide
• Build up gradually: Your body needs time to adapt to standing

Preventing Problems

When to Contact the Manufacturer

Some issues require professional help or replacement parts:

• Motor makes grinding, clicking, or unusual sounds
• Desk won't operate despite troubleshooting
• Visible damage to frame or components
• Error codes you can't resolve
• Any issue while under warranty

Document the issue (video if possible) before contacting support—it speeds up the process.