ABOUT

Internal door closers are ubiquitous in commercial and residential buildings, ensuring doors close smoothly and securely. However, these seemingly simple devices require occasional adjustment to maintain optimal performance and prolong their lifespan. A poorly adjusted door closer can lead to slamming doors, slow closing, incomplete closure, or even damage to the door and its frame. Understanding how to adjust your internal door closer is crucial for ensuring building safety, improving energy efficiency (by preventing drafts), and extending the life of the closer itself. This guide will delve into the intricacies of internal door closer adjustment, empowering you to tackle this task with confidence.

Understanding Door Closer Components

Before diving into the adjustments themselves, it's vital to understand the basic components of a typical door closer. Most closers feature a main body containing a hydraulic mechanism, a spring to provide closing power, and an arm that connects the closer to the door and frame. This arm often has adjustable components that allow for fine-tuning the closing speed and the latching action. There are usually adjustment screws, often denoted by letters or symbols like "S" for speed, "L" for latch speed, or similar markings, although the exact labeling can vary between manufacturers. Understanding the location and function of these screws is the key to successful adjustment.

Different door closers might use varying methods for adjustments. Some employ a single screw for overall closing speed control, others use separate screws for the closing speed during the initial swing and the final latching phase. Some advanced closers even offer adjustable back-check features, limiting the speed of the door's opening swing to prevent damage and improve safety. Familiarize yourself with your specific closer’s model and consult its instruction manual for detailed information about its components and adjustment points.

Adjusting Closing Speed

The most common adjustment is regulating the closing speed. This involves adjusting the hydraulic mechanism within the closer to control how quickly the door closes. Typically, a screw labelled "S" or "Speed" governs this function. Turning this screw clockwise usually increases the closing speed, making the door close faster, while turning it counter-clockwise slows it down. However, always refer to your specific door closer’s manual as the direction of adjustment may vary.

Adjusting the closing speed requires a delicate touch and iterative adjustments. Don't make drastic changes; instead, make small incremental adjustments, testing the door's closure after each tweak. Aim for a smooth, controlled closure without slamming. Too fast a closing speed can cause damage to the door or its frame, while too slow a speed may leave the door ajar, compromising security and energy efficiency.

Adjusting Latch Speed

Separate from the overall closing speed, many door closers offer an independent adjustment for the latching speed – the final portion of the closure just before the door fully latches. This is usually controlled by a separate screw, often labeled "L" or "Latch." This adjustment is crucial for preventing the door from slamming shut at the very end. A properly adjusted latch speed ensures a gentle, quiet close.

Adjusting the latch speed is often less involved than the overall closing speed. Minor adjustments can make a significant difference in the final closing action. Again, small, incremental changes are recommended, followed by testing the door's closure to observe the effect. A correctly adjusted latch speed contributes to a quieter and less jarring closure.

Adjusting the Back-Check

Some higher-end door closers incorporate a back-check adjustment. This feature controls the speed at which the door opens, preventing it from swinging open too forcefully. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas or where the door might be prone to forceful openings. Back-check adjustment helps prevent damage to the door, frame, and the closer itself. It also contributes to a safer environment by limiting the momentum of the opening door.

The back-check adjustment typically involves a screw or valve located on the door closer body. Adjusting this mechanism will restrict the initial swing of the door, slowing it down considerably. Proper back-check adjustment helps to prevent accidental collisions and damage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even after adjustment, you might still encounter problems. If the door continues to slam despite adjustments, the problem may not lie with the door closer itself but with other factors such as sticking hinges, a warped door, or obstructions. Carefully inspect the door and its hinges for any issues. Lubricating the hinges can often resolve sticking problems. If the door is warped, professional intervention may be necessary.

If the door fails to close completely, it could be due to an improperly adjusted latch, a misaligned strike plate, or a problem with the door's latch mechanism. Check the alignment of the strike plate and ensure the latch engages correctly with it. If these are correctly aligned, refer back to the latch speed adjustment to make sure the door is fully closing.

Remember, always consult your door closer's instruction manual for specific instructions and adjustment recommendations. Attempting adjustments without understanding your specific closer's mechanism can lead to further damage. If you are unsure about any aspect of the adjustment process, it is always best to consult a qualified professional.