Cordless blinds won't raise

Symptoms

• Blind won't lift when you push up on the bottom rail
• Feels heavier or stiffer than when new
• Raises partway and stops
• Springs back down slowly instead of staying up

Likely causes

• CommonSpring tension weakened over timeThe internal coil spring that counterbalances the blind's weight loses tension with age and use.
• PossibleMechanism jammed by a tilted or misaligned slatA bent slat can catch inside the headrail and block the lift mechanism.
• PossibleBlind operated at an angle instead of straight upPulling unevenly on one side can throw off the internal cord spool alignment.
• PossibleInternal cord (even in cordless designs) broken or slipped off its spoolCordless blinds still use an internal cord system hidden inside the rail.

What to do

1. Try lifting the blind slowly and evenly using both hands on the bottom rail, rather than pulling from one side.
2. Check for any visibly bent or misaligned slats near the top that could be catching inside the headrail.
3. Lower the blind fully, then try raising it again in one smooth, even motion.
4. If it only lifts partway, note the exact point it stops, which can indicate where an internal jam is located.
5. For many cordless blinds, there's a tension adjustment accessible by removing an end cap on the headrail; consult the manufacturer's instructions for your model.
6. If the mechanism feels broken rather than just weak, most cordless blinds aren't designed for at-home internal repair and may need professional service or replacement.
7. Check whether the blind is still under warranty, since cordless lift mechanisms are common manufacturer defects covered for a period.

Tools and parts

• Screwdriver

When to call a pro

Call the manufacturer for warranty service or a blind repair shop if the internal spring mechanism needs replacing, since it's not a simple home fix on most cordless models.

Safety