A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right gas spring for tanning bed Components for Long-Lasting Performance

Reliable lifting mechanisms are essential for every modern tanning salon. A well-functioning gas spring for tanning bed ensures clients can easily and safely open and close the canopy, protects internal lamp components, and enhances the overall user experience. Over time, however, gas springs lose pressure, become harder to operate, or fail entirely — which can reduce efficiency and lead to customer complaints.
For salon owners, understanding how these components work and where to source dependable replacements is critical. Sunalparts, a leading supplier of tanning bed components, offers one of the industry’s largest inventories of gas springs and shocks for dozens of tanning bed models. Salon operators looking for quality replacements can explore the full catalog through this link: gas spring for tanning bed
Understanding the Role of gas shocks for tanning bed Systems
Every tanning bed canopy relies on lift support provided by gas shocks for tanning bed assemblies. These pressurized components are designed to hold the canopy open, guide smooth lifting, and prevent the top shell from slamming shut. They function similarly to the gas shocks used in vehicles but are built for the specific motion and weight balance of tanning equipment.
Why gas shocks matter:
- User safety:They keep the canopy fully open during operation.
- Ease of use:Clients should lift the top with minimal effort.
- Equipment longevity:Consistent tension reduces strain on hinges and acrylics.
- Professional reliability:Proper support prevents unexpected failures or breakage.
Sunalparts provides gas shocks compatible with a wide variety of leading brands including Sunquest, Sunvision, Sunal, ProSun, ETS, Montego Bay, and many more. Their inventory includes both standard and hydro-lift versions to match manufacturer specifications.
When to Replace tanning bed gas shocks
Gas shocks are wear-and-tear components. No matter how well a tanning bed is maintained, these parts gradually lose pressure and must be replaced to ensure safe, smooth operation.
Signs your bed needs new tanning bed gas shocks:
- Difficulty lifting the canopy
If the top feels heavier than usual or requires two hands, the shocks have weakened. - Canopy does not stay open
This is a safety hazard and indicates the internal pressure has dropped. - Noisy lifting motion
Squeaks or grinding suggest internal wear. - Visible oil residue
Leakage means immediate replacement is necessary. - Slow or jerky movements
The canopy should open smoothly; resistance indicates shock deterioration.
Replacing gas shocks promptly prevents more expensive issues such as cracked acrylics, bent hinges, or broken mounting brackets.
Types of Gas Springs: Standard vs. Hydro-Lift Models
Not all gas springs perform the same function. Sunalparts offers different types so salon owners can choose components that match manufacturer specifications.
Standard gas springs
These are the most common type used in tanning beds. They provide controlled, stable lift assistance and consistent motion.
Hydro-lift gas springs
Hydro-lift models include a pressure-relief valve and enhanced damping during the compression stroke.
Key benefits:
- More lifting assistance
- Stiffer resistance when closing
- Enhanced control during motion
These shocks are ideal for heavy canopies or beds requiring added stability.
Sunalparts stocks both types for numerous manufacturers and can assist customers in determining which version their specific tanning bed requires.
Installation Basics: How to Safely Remove and Replace Gas Springs
Although gas springs are straightforward to install, they must be removed and replaced correctly to prevent accidental damage.
Steps for safe removal:
- Fully open the canopy
The bed must be in the upright position to release tension safely. - Locate locking clips
Gas springs attach using ball-joint clips. Removing the metal retaining clip allows the joint to release. - Detach both ends
Once clips are removed, gently pull the shock from its mounting ball. - Install new shocks with the rod facing downward
This ensures proper lubrication and seal protection.
The Sunalparts resource page includes illustrations that simplify clip removal for first-time installers. Their technical guidance helps avoid common mistakes such as side-loading, incorrect alignment, or installing shocks in the wrong orientation.
Care, Usage, and Maintenance Tips for Longer-Lasting Gas Springs
Although gas springs do not require heavy maintenance, proper handling extends their lifespan considerably.
Best care practices:
- Never lubricate the shock rod.Lubricants attract dirt and damage seals.
- Operate the bed periodically.Regular motion maintains internal lubrication, especially in low-traffic salons.
- Keep the room temperature stable.Gas pressure changes with temperature; extreme heat increases force, while cold decreases it.
- Avoid letting shocks rub against other parts.Side-loading or friction can cause premature failure.
- Replace shocks in pairs when possible.If one fails, the other is usually close behind.
Consistent care ensures smoother operation and reduces the frequency of replacements.
How Sunalparts Simplifies Finding the Correct Replacement Part
One of the biggest challenges salon owners face is identifying the exact shock model they need. Tanning beds often come in many variations, and incompatible parts lead to poor performance.
Sunalparts makes this process easy with:
- A Find My Partstool
- Sorting by Manufacturer, Model Name, and Model Number
- Parts organized by brand for fast browsing
- A search option for entering part numbers directly
- Industry-wide compatibility across dozens of brands
Whether you operate an older model or a newer high-performance unit, Sunalparts carries shocks for nearly every bed on the market — including rare and discontinued models.
Why Salons Trust Sunalparts for gas spring for tanning bed Components
Sunalparts is one of the most recognized names in the tanning equipment industry, offering high-quality replacement parts at competitive prices. Their gas springs are engineered for durability, reliability, and compatibility with major tanning bed manufacturers.
Benefits of sourcing from Sunalparts:
- Extensive inventoryof shocks for hundreds of bed models
- Expert customer supportto help identify the correct part
- Fast nationwide shipping
- High compatibilitywith both commercial and residential tanning beds
- Affordable pricingwithout compromising on quality
For salons that require consistent uptime and minimal disruption, Sunalparts is a trusted supplier offering strong technical knowledge and dependable customer service.
Conclusion: Ensuring Safe Operation with Quality gas shocks for tanning bed
Every tanning bed, regardless of brand or design, depends on high-quality lift supports to function safely. Replacing worn gas shocks for tanning bed models ensures a smooth and reliable lifting mechanism, protects delicate components, and maintains a professional user experience. Understanding the signs of wear, choosing the appropriate replacement, and sourcing from a reliable provider are essential steps for every salon owner.
Sunalparts provides one of the most comprehensive collections of tanning bed gas shocks in the industry, supported by expert guidance and a streamlined parts-finding system. Whether you manage a single tanning bed or oversee a full salon, reliable gas springs are crucial — and Sunalparts offers the trusted solutions you need to keep operations running smoothly




