Door closers are an essential part of any commercial or public building, ensuring that doors close automatically and securely behind people. However, over time, door closers can become misaligned or lose their effectiveness, leading to a range of problems. If you’re experiencing issues with a door closer, don’t despair – it’s often possible to adjust it yourself. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to adjust a door closer, covering everything from the tools you’ll need to the specific adjustments you can make.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and possibly a level. Once you have your tools, you can start by identifying the type of door closer you have. There are two main types of door closers: surface-mounted and concealed. Surface-mounted door closers are mounted on the surface of the door or frame, while concealed door closers are hidden within the door or frame. Once you’ve identified the type of door closer you have, you can proceed to the next step.
For surface-mounted door closers, the adjustment screws are typically located on the face of the closer. For concealed door closers, the adjustment screws may be located on the end of the closer or on the mounting bracket. Once you’ve located the adjustment screws, you can use a screwdriver to make the necessary adjustments. The most common adjustments are for the closing speed, the latching speed, and the backcheck. The closing speed adjustment controls how quickly the door closes, The latching speed adjustment controls how quickly the door latches, and the backcheck adjustment controls how much resistance there is when the door is opened.
Identifying the Types of Door Closers
Door closers come in various types, each designed for specific applications and door configurations. Understanding the different types is crucial for selecting the right closer for your door and ensuring proper operation.
Overhead Concealed Closers
Overhead concealed closers are installed within the door frame, making them virtually invisible when the door is closed. These closers are commonly used in interior applications where aesthetics are a priority, such as offices, hotel rooms, and residential homes. They provide a clean and sleek appearance while effectively controlling the closing speed of the door.
Here’s a table summarizing the key features of overhead concealed closers:
| Overhead Concealed Closers |
|---|
| Unobtrusive design |
| Compact size |
| Adjustable closing and latching speeds |
| Suitable for most interior door applications |
Tools and Materials Required
To adjust a door closer, you will require the following tools and materials:
- Allen wrench
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Level
Allen Wrench
An Allen wrench is used to adjust the tension on the door closer. The tension determines how quickly the door closes. Turn the wrench clockwise to increase the tension and counterclockwise to decrease the tension. Be careful not to overtighten the screw, as this can damage the closer.
| Size | Application |
|---|---|
| 1/4 inch | Most common size |
| 5/16 inch | Larger door closers |
| 3/8 inch | Very large door closers |
The size of the Allen wrench you need will depend on the door closer you are adjusting.
Locating the Adjustment Screws
1. Identify the Closer’s Location
The door closer is typically located on the top or bottom of the door, either on the frame or the door itself. It consists of a cylindrical body with an arm connected to the door.
2. Locate the Adjustment Screw Cover
On most door closers, the adjustment screws are concealed behind a cover to prevent tampering. This cover is usually a small, round or rectangular piece of plastic or metal that can be removed by hand or with a screwdriver.
3. Types of Adjustment Screws
Once the cover is removed, you will see several adjustment screws. The most common types are:
- Backcheck Screw: Controls the speed at which the door opens from a wide angle.
- Sweep Screw: Determines the resistance encountered when opening the door from a slightly open position.
- Latch Speed Screw: Adjusts the speed at which the door latches once it reaches the closed position.
- Power Screw: Regulates the overall closing force of the door.
- Delay Screw (Optional): Introduces a delay before the door begins to close, allowing for easier entry.
Adjusting the Backcheck
The backcheck is a feature on door closers that helps to prevent the door from slamming open too quickly. It is a hydraulic mechanism that controls the speed at which the door opens.
To adjust the backcheck, follow these steps:
- Locate the backcheck adjustment screw on the door closer. It is typically located on the side of the closer, near the arm.
- Use a wrench or screwdriver to turn the screw clockwise to increase the backcheck speed, or counterclockwise to decrease it.
- Test the door to make sure that the backcheck is set correctly. The door should open smoothly and without slamming.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the backcheck is set to the desired speed.
- Once the backcheck is set, tighten the screw to keep it in place.
Here is a table that summarizes the steps for adjusting the backcheck:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the backcheck adjustment screw. |
| 2 | Turn the screw clockwise to increase the backcheck speed, or counterclockwise to decrease it. |
| 3 | Test the door to make sure that the backcheck is set correctly. |
| 4 | Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the backcheck is set to the desired speed. |
| 5 | Tighten the screw to keep the backcheck in place. |
Adjusting the Latch Sensitivity
The latch sensitivity determines the amount of force required to unlatch the door when it is closed. Adjusting this setting can improve the door’s security and prevent it from opening too easily or too abruptly.
To adjust the latch sensitivity:
1. Locate the adjustment screw for the latch sensitivity. It is usually located on the door frame, near the latch.
2. Use a screwdriver to turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase the latch sensitivity or counterclockwise to decrease it.
3. Test the door to ensure that it is properly latched.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the desired latch sensitivity is achieved.
Recommended Latch Sensitivity Settings
| Door Type | Recommended Latch Sensitivity |
|—|—|
| Exterior Doors | High |
| Interior Doors | Medium |
| Doors Used by Children or Elderly | Low |
Adjusting the Hold-Open Function
The hold-open function allows the door to stay open at a specific angle, typically 90 degrees. This feature is useful in high-traffic areas or when you need to keep the door open for extended periods.
To adjust the hold-open function:
- Identify the hold-open arm. This arm is usually located near the bottom of the door closer body and is connected to the door frame.
- Loosen the set screw. Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to loosen the screw that secures the hold-open arm to the door closer body.
- Adjust the hold-open angle. Rotate the hold-open arm to the desired angle.
- Tighten the set screw. Use the screwdriver or Allen wrench to tighten the screw that secures the hold-open arm to the door closer body.
- Test the hold-open function. Open the door and allow it to close slowly. The door should stop at the desired hold-open angle.
- Repeat steps 3-5 as necessary until the hold-open function is set to your desired angle.
- Additional Tips for Adjusting the Hold-Open Function:
- Use a level to ensure that the door is held open at a level angle.
- Adjust the hold-open arm slowly to avoid overtightening or undertightening.
- If the hold-open function does not work, check that the hold-open arm is properly connected to the door closer body and the door frame and that there is no binding or interference.
Testing the Adjustments
Now that the adjustment is made, the next step is to test it. Start by opening the door slowly to see if it closes consistently and smoothly without any sudden jerks or unwanted stops.
If necessary, fine-tune the adjustments using the following steps:
Latch Speed:
– If the door closes too quickly, increase the latch speed to slow it down.
– If the door closes too slowly, decrease the latch speed to make it faster.
Closing Force:
– If the door closes with too much force, decrease the closing force to make it easier to close.
– If the door closes with too little force, increase the closing force to ensure it closes securely.
Backcheck:
– If the door opens with too much force, increase the backcheck to slow it down.
– If the door opens too slowly, decrease the backcheck to make it easier to open.
Delayed Closing:
– If the door closes immediately after it is opened, adjust the delayed closing feature to allow for a short delay before the door starts closing.
– If the delayed closing is too long, decrease the delay time to make the door close more quickly.
Continue making small adjustments and testing until the door closer operates smoothly and consistently to your satisfaction.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Door won’t close properly:
- Check if the door is obstructed by an object.
- Adjust the closing speed and latch sensitivity.
2. Door closes too quickly:
- Decrease the closing speed by adjusting the appropriate screw.
- Lubricate the moving parts of the closer.
3. Door closes too slowly:
- Increase the closing speed by tightening the adjustment screw.
- Clean and lubricate the closer mechanism.
4. Door doesn’t latch properly:
- Adjust the latch sensitivity to ensure it engages with the strike plate correctly.
- Lubricate the latch mechanism.
5. Door opens too easily:
- Tighten the adjustment screw to increase the opening resistance.
- Check for worn or damaged springs.
6. Door sags:
- Tighten the screws holding the closer to the door and frame.
- Adjust the arm length if necessary.
7. Door squeals or creaks:
- Lubricate all moving parts of the closer.
- Inspect for worn or damaged components.
8. Closer overheats:
- Reduce the closing speed to prevent excessive friction.
- Lubricate the moving parts regularly.
9. Advanced Troubleshooting:
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Door doesn’t close fully under all conditions | Worn or damaged components, uneven floor | Replace worn components, adjust arm length or floor |
| Door closes too fast at the end | Reduced hydraulic fluid, worn or damaged piston | Replenish fluid, replace piston or closer |
| Door bounces back open after closing | Damaged backcheck mechanism | Adjust or replace backcheck mechanism |
Safety Precautions
Before adjusting a door closer, always take the following safety precautions:
- Wear appropriate safety gear: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any potential hazards.
- Disconnect power: If the door closer is electric, be sure to disconnect power before attempting any adjustments.
- Clear the work area: Remove any obstacles or debris from the work area to prevent accidents.
- Use the proper tools: Make sure to use the correct tools for the job. Avoid using pliers or other tools that could damage the door closer.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of any potential hazards, such as moving vehicles or heavy objects.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is important to ensure the proper functioning and longevity of your door closer. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Inspect the door closer regularly: Check the door closer for any signs of damage or wear, such as loose screws or broken parts.
- Clean the door closer: Remove any dirt or debris from the door closer using a damp cloth.
- Lubricate the door closer: Apply a few drops of light oil to the moving parts of the door closer.
- Adjust the door closer: If the door closer is not closing properly, you may need to adjust it. Follow the instructions in the following section.
- Test the door closer: After making any adjustments, test the door closer to ensure that it is working properly.
10. Adjust the Closing Speed
The closing speed of the door closer can be adjusted to control how fast the door closes. To adjust the closing speed, follow these steps:
- Locate the adjustment screw for the closing speed. It is typically located on the side or bottom of the door closer.
- Turn the screw clockwise to increase the closing speed.
- Turn the screw counterclockwise to decrease the closing speed.
- Test the door closer to ensure that it is closing at the desired speed.
How to Adjust Door Closer
Door closers are essential for keeping your doors closed and preventing them from slamming shut. Over time, door closers can become loose or misaligned, which can cause them to malfunction. If your door closer is not working properly, you can adjust it yourself with a few simple tools.
To adjust a door closer, you will need:
- A screwdriver
- A wrench
- A level
Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps:
- Open the door and locate the door closer. It will be mounted on the door frame or the door itself.
- Use the screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the door closer in place.
- Use the wrench to turn the adjustment screw on the door closer. The adjustment screw will be located on the side of the door closer.
- Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to tighten the closer or counterclockwise to loosen it.
- Use the level to make sure that the door closer is level.
- Tighten the screws that hold the door closer in place.
- Test the door closer to make sure that it is working properly.
People Also Ask About How to Adjust Door Closer
How do I know if my door closer needs to be adjusted?
There are a few signs that your door closer may need to be adjusted. These include:
- The door is not closing all the way.
- The door is slamming shut.
- The door is difficult to open.
Can I adjust a door closer myself?
Yes, you can adjust a door closer yourself with a few simple tools. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, you can always call a professional.
How much does it cost to adjust a door closer?
The cost to adjust a door closer will vary depending on the type of door closer and the complexity of the adjustment. However, most adjustments can be done for less than $100.
