Many of us remember the simple devices that were previously used to ensure independent and tight closure of entrances, gates, entrances, etc. For this, ordinary springs, counterweights with cables and block systems were used, and often craftsmen even adapted rubber bands or pieces of old tires for such purposes. Today, such problems are solved much easier and more efficiently, since there is always the opportunity to buy a door closer - the range of them on sale is very wide.
Purchasing such a mechanism is only half the battle, since you still need to install it correctly. You can, of course, turn to the services of craftsmen, however, if you carefully figure out how to install a door closer, it turns out that such work can be done independently.
General information about the design of door closers
A door closer is a mechanical device that accumulates potential energy when a door is opened, which is then used to close it tightly. The “battery” is most often a powerful spring.
Transfer of force to the spring and back, to door leaf, can be carried out according to one of two schemes:
1. Closers with an internal hydraulic circuit and rack and pinion force transmission.
- When the door is opened, the gear mounted on the lever axis, turning, transmits translational motion through the rack to the piston (upper part of the picture), and it, in turn, compresses the spring.
- When the opening external force is removed, the spring tends to return to its original position (bottom in the figure). It pushes the piston, causing rotation of the gear, which transmits force to the lever system of the closer.
Smooth operation is ensured by a system of cavities and channels through which oil flows, which fills the entire body of the closer. By changing the internal clearance of the channels, you can precisely adjust the smooth operation of the entire mechanism.
Such a scheme is the most widespread, especially on closers with lever transmission.
Video: device and installation diagrams of a closer with a rack and pinion mechanism
2. Closers with cam mechanism
On the axis of the lever there is a cam of a complex eccentric shape (“heart-shaped”), supported on both sides by rollers. When the door is opened, the protruding part of the cam compresses the spring, which, on its return stroke, causes the cam to rotate in the opposite direction, which leads to a smooth closing of the door. The torque is adjusted by changing the geometry of the eccentric profile.
This scheme is more often used in closers with a channel arrangement of traction or in hidden placement mechanisms.
The next parameter for the classification of closers is their installation location. The vast majority of devices are designed for surface-mounted installation at the top. However, sometimes for reasons of unesthetics or the impossibility of installing the mechanism on top (for example, glass doors, or in cases where the closer’s appearance will disrupt the intended design of the room), other schemes can be used - hidden installation in the floor, in the frame or in the door leaf.
In turn, overhead door closers are divided into two types:
- Mechanisms with a hinged (lever) rod consisting of two knees. Advantages - simplicity and reliability of design, good power transmission, large built-in potential possible adjustments and additional functions. Disadvantage - the protruding lever system may not be to everyone's taste for aesthetic reasons. In addition, it is more susceptible to vandalism.
Closer with a guide channel - slider system
- Slider system closers – with a sliding channel. The free end of the lever is equipped with a roller and moves in a closed box-shaped channel. Advantages - aesthetics, less susceptibility to vandalism, the possibility of placing a door opening limiter in the channel. The absence of protruding parts makes it possible to install such closers on doors closely located to the walls. Disadvantages - more significant effort is required to open the doors (spring compression), limited adjustments and additional functionality.
What to consider when choosing a door closer
If you want to equip the door in your apartment or house with a closer, before purchasing this mechanism you need to decide on its “size”. Under this concept lies the classification according to the European standard EN 1154. Thus, there are seven gradations of closers according to the magnitude of the closing force, which are selected based on the size and weight of the door leaf:
Standard gradation of door closer “sizes”
- When selecting the right model, you need to focus on the maximum performance of your doors. For example, if the width of the canvas is 900 mm, but at the same time weighs 70 kg, then you will need to purchase a door closer with size EN -4.
- For maximum consumer convenience, developers of such mechanisms often provide a certain range of their capabilities. For example, the technical documentation may set the limits “EN -2 ÷ EN -4”. The specific amount of force in this case will be determined only by the installation features of the closer.
- In those rare situations when the effort of one closer may not be enough, they resort to installing them in pairs.
- It is worth purchasing the model that best suits the existing doors. Understating the characteristics will lead to rapid failure of the closer. Too large a size means unnecessary difficulties with normal door opening.
- If you plan to install the closer on the street or in an unheated room, you must check whether such a possibility is provided on the specific model. The problem is a significant change in oil viscosity in hydraulic system during thermal changes. Typically, the product data sheet indicates the permissible operating temperature range.
- You can immediately evaluate the functionality of the selected model. Basic adjustments of most door closers include changing the spring force, speed and force of closing the door in the sector from 180 to 15º and in the final section (finishing) - from 15 to 0º. In addition, other parameters may be provided:
— A special adjustable hydraulic damper will help prevent sudden opening of doors due to excessive force or in a draft or gusty wind. He will protect the doors from breakage, from impact along adjacent walls, will prevent accidental injury.
— Often the operating conditions of the premises require leaving the door open for a long time. To do this, you will need a closer with a locking mechanism in the open position.
— There are situations when after each opening of the doors and before they begin to close, a certain pause is required, about half a minute (for example, warehouses, storage rooms, utility rooms). This feature can also be implemented in closers with a closing delay function.
— If the doors have an elastic seal, or they are equipped with latches, the function of precise control of the speed and closing force will be useful.
— If the doors are double-leaf, then an additional mechanism may be needed to coordinate the uniform closing of both leaves.
— For “cold” doors, it is better to purchase a closer with a “thermal damper” system, which, in response to changes in external temperature, expands or contracts, compensating for changes in the viscosity of the oil in the hydraulic system.
Approximate procedure for installing a door closer
Since the most common door closers in apartments are those with a hydraulic rack and pinion system and a lever mechanism, the installation process will be discussed using their example. By and large. Installing door closers with a slider system is not particularly different, and in some cases it is even a simpler task.
- First of all, you should decide on the installation diagram, which depends on the direction of opening the doors:
— If the door opens in the direction of placing the closer, then its body will be attached to the door leaf, and the lever system will be attached to the door frame.
— When opening the door outward, away from you, the scheme changes to the opposite - the body is on the jamb, and the lever system bracket or sliding channel is on the door.
In both cases, the adjustment screws on the closer body must face the hinges.
- The kit of almost any modern door closer necessarily includes a template made in full size, which extremely simplifies the process of accurately marking the mounting locations for both the body and the lever bracket.
Typically, templates are available for all intended installation methods - on left and right doors, opening outward or inward.
In addition, if the closer has the ability to work in several standard classes according to EN, then this will also be indicated on the template. There are different lines applied to the corner of the door (as in the example presented), or the drilling centers are indicated in different colors mounting holes for each level (size).
So, if the master has decided on the required size and location of the parts, you can proceed to installation.
- The template is attached with maximum precision using strips of adhesive tape to the door leaf along the indicated lines. The centers of the holes to be drilled are marked with a center punch.
- Using an electric drill, holes are drilled to the diameter required by the installation instructions.
- The door closer body is secured with the supplied fasteners (screws). In this case it should once again Check the correct orientation of the adjusting screws.
- The next step is to install the bracket (foot) with the adjustable knee of the lever system.
If the parts of the lever mechanism included in the delivery set are connected to each other, then this hinge must be temporarily disassembled - its final assembly will be carried out when adjusting the closer.
One more nuance. The bracket may be asymmetrical, so you should check its location with the required door closing force. In the case under consideration (in the figure) two positions are shown - for EN -2 and for EN -3 and 4.
— In the case where the priority is to close the door smoothly without knocking, and the door itself is not equipped with a latch or seal, the adjustable lever arm is placed perpendicular to the surface of the door, and the rigid lever is placed at an angle to it. The connection is made at full closed door. The length of the adjustable lever can be easily changed by tightening or unscrewing the screw part of it a few turns.
Door slam closing required
— If an accentuated finishing force is required to close the door (a lock with latch or seal), then the scheme changes slightly. In this case, the rigid lever must be perpendicular to the door leaf, and the length of the adjustable elbow is adjusted to this location. Thus, the closer spring initially becomes slightly loaded, which will increase the force when the door is completely closed.
- After adjusting this “triangle”, the joint between both knees is assembled.
In fact, this is where the standard procedure for installing the closer ends and you can proceed to adjustment. However, as practice shows, the door design can present certain “surprises”, which will require the use of special mounting strips (plates) or corners:
- A doorway that is too deep does not allow the lever bracket to be placed directly on the door frame. In this case, it is installed on the mounting bracket.
The opposite situation - the closer body is installed on the mounting angle
- “Mirror” situation, when installation on the mounting angle requires the closer body itself .
- The design of the door leaf does not make it possible to install the closer body on its surface (for example, high-positioned glass). In this case, the mounting plate is first attached, and then the housing itself is attached to it.
- The door leaf protrudes slightly beyond the frame, or the space above it does not allow attaching a bracket to it. To align the housing and the mounting of the levers at the same level, to create conditions for reliable fastening, you will need to install a mounting plate.
- Complex curly shape door casing does not provide a level platform for mounting the closer body. The solution is to pre-install the mounting plate.
Mounting angles or plates, as a rule, are not included in the delivery package of the closer, but are usually available for sale in a fairly wide assortment for most models.
Find out interesting things interior solution, from our new article -
Adjusting the installed door closer
After installing the closer, it is necessary to make the necessary adjustments so that its operation is most comfortable for the owners.
The door closing speed is adjustable in two ranges. Location and marking of set screws different models may vary significantly - this should be clarified in the instructions supplied with the product. The principle of adjustment is approximately the same.
- First, by rotating the corresponding screw, adjust the door until it is closed. Strength and speed installed“latching” directly depend on the weight and design of the door, its equipment with a lock with a latch (for example, at entrances with combination locks the latch can be quite tight), installed around the perimeter of the opening of the sealing contour. In any case, the speed of the door in the finishing sector should not differ too much from the movement in the initial sector.
- Then set the most acceptable speed from the fully open position to an angle of approximately 15º (before the start of finishing). The door should move smoothly, without jerking or stopping.
- The adjusting screws rotate very smoothly, in a small sector - this is quite enough. Excessive tightening or unscrewing of the screws can lead to either breakdown of the mechanism or depressurization of the housing with oil leaking out of it.
- If there is a need to increase the closing force, you can use a special screw to increase the preload of the working spring of the closer.
As already mentioned, some models also have a door closer additional functions. The installation and operating instructions for a specific product will indicate adjustment rules that must be strictly followed.
Video: example of adjusting a door closer
- In no case should the door closer be considered as a limiter for the maximum opening of the door - the lever mechanism will not last long with this approach. For these purposes, it is better to use shock-absorbing door stops mounted on the floor or wall. The exception is some models with a slider lever arrangement - sometimes you can install a limit opening limiter in the guide chute.
- It is prohibited to block a door with a closer in the open position by placing heavy objects in the path of the door leaf or by tying it to the handle. If necessary long term keep the entrance open, it is necessary to disconnect the lever system during this time.
- You should not try to forcefully increase the speed of closing the door manually - this will cause rapid wear of the mechanism.
- It is forbidden to hang on doors, allow children to ride on them, or hang significant loads on the handles.
- The door closer will function correctly if the door structure itself is free of defects. Even before installation, you should check for looseness or sagging in the hinges, distortions of the fabric, correct fit of locks and latches, and constantly monitor this during operation.
- If the closer has to be installed outdoors, it should be protected from precipitation and direct sun rays. Mechanisms installed in such “cold” conditions will require seasonal adjustments twice a year.
- It is necessary to regularly (at least once a year) lubricate the hinge units of the lever mechanism with grease.
Find out installation instructions from our new article.
If the owners comply with the operating rules, the door closer must conscientiously work out the period guaranteed by the manufacturer.
Closer - a design for automatically returning the door leaf to its original position. The “smart” device smoothly and silently closes the open sash. Most doors are equipped with modern convenient device. But, like any mechanism, the device requires careful care, adjustment and repair.
The following material will help you set up and perform a simple inspection of the device.
Device types
The mechanism controls the movement of the web (closer). It sets the movement mode: speeds up or slows down the closing process, gives softness and ease to the sliding of the sash. There are several operating principles.
In practice, two types are used:
- The sliding rod operates the spring and piston system. One piston opens, the other brakes. The sliding type design is compact and reliable, suitable for lightweight doors.
- With a lever-type gear transmission - the most common class of locking structures. A reliable combination of spring rod and gear allows you to install devices on massive doors.
The main requirement for choosing a door closing regulator is that it must correspond to its parameters; the more massive the door leaf, the more powerful the door closer is needed.
Based on the location of the control units on the door, the following groups are distinguished:
- upper;
- floor mounted systems;
- hidden.
Upper. Widespread class door closers. The combination of low price and reliable operation makes them popular among the population. They are installed at the top of the sash, which is very practical during installation. Manufacturers produce special oil-filled devices for external doors, adapted for use in hot or frosty climates.
Floor holders. Have proven themselves well in office premises, shopping centers, banks, where to appearance doors have increased requirements. Floor systems are built into the flooring and are practically invisible to visitors. Sliding type regulator designs are used and are designed for doors weighing up to 100 kg.
Internal devices. The devices are indispensable where careful cosmetic finishing and an impeccable front façade are required.
- Small sliding type design, mounted inside the door frame or leaf.
- The loop closer is a compact device. The range of application is limited: do not install on heavy doors; wears out quickly; special precision of installation on the doorway is required.
In what cases is adjustment required?
It is quite possible to adjust the closer yourself in cases where:
— a new closer was installed on the door leaf;
- for the purpose of preventive examination. Eliminating minor faults helps to increase the service life of the device;
- when changing climatic periods. Most of the devices are sold with an oily filling. When weather conditions change, the viscosity of the fluid in the mechanism changes, which requires additional calibration;
— upon detection of easily removable defects;
— in case of failures occurring during continuous operation. Urgent improvements are being made to the functioning of the automatic device;
- if a failure occurs or a breakdown occurs, one adjustment is not enough. It is necessary to take a number of measures to restore full functionality of the equipment.
What and how to regulate
To adjust the closer, there are two screws on the body. Some manufacturers place the bolts at the end of the body, others cover them with decorative covers. The adjusting screws are marked with numbers one and two. One bolt is designed to adjust the opening angle up to 180 degrees, and the other affects the speed of the rebate. 
Setting the angle (opening angle 20-180*).
The first step is to adjust the door opening angle.
— set the adjusting bolt No. 1 to the required angle parameter of 90 or 180 degrees.
Setting the speed of the rebate:
— by turning bolt No. 2 clockwise, the closing speed increases,
- by turning counterclockwise, the covering speed will slow down,
- open the door to the established angular characteristics,
- release the sash,
— start adjusting the speed of the web return with adjusting screw No. 2, achieving smooth operation.
Installation of the aftershock (opening angle from 15-0 degrees):
Adjusting the acceleration is necessary for the tightness of the rebate:
— adjust with screw No. 2.
Important! Strictly monitor the number of turns of the tension screw, do not turn it more than one turn. Depressurization and oil leakage from the device are possible.
Open position. Not all clutches have a locking function open doors. Manufacturers produce mechanical devices with or without a retention system that can be turned on and off. The locking load is carried by a special clamp. It is available as an option and is not included in the package.
Mode setting:
- open the door to 90 - 100 degrees,
— adjust the special pin. The holder will fix the open door.
How to remove the hold option:
— pull the door towards you, the latch disengages.
— The door leaf is not opened to its full extent, then the locking mechanism does not turn on.
— Closing is taking place as usual.
What not to do
Some regulatory features:
- Strictly monitor the rotation of the adjusting bolt. Do not turn more than two turns. There is a risk of breaking the tightness of the closer body with loss of lubricant.
- Avoid distortions during installation. Distortions affect the duration of the structure.
- Do not press hard on the door when closing, which also leads to rapid wear of the mechanism.
- You cannot place supports under the canvas in a slightly open state; using the locking option is sufficient.
- Do not hang massive things on the door leaf. Additional load leads to misalignment of the finishing unit.
Leveling the finishing mechanism assembly, carried out in a timely manner, will increase the operating period of the device by long time.
Door closer – necessary and useful invention. This is a mechanism that automatically closes doors and reduces wear and tear. door hinges and accessories. Proper installation and timely adjustment of the closer will guarantee it Good work And long term services.
Device functions
Almost all door closers, regardless of the manufacturer, have the following functions:
- Sliding speed of the door leaf.
- Smooth closing.
- Ability to keep the door open.
The sliding speed of the door leaf can be faster or slower. It is adjusted by the degree of tension of the spring inside the device. It must be remembered that under no circumstances should you pull the door while helping the closer. This will quickly disable it.
The door clap allows you to smoothly close the door, pausing the door just before closing. This feature ensures silent operation of the door, eliminating loud sounds. In addition, the clap promotes a tighter fit of the door leaf to the frame. The angle at which it will slow down before closing completely is usually in the range of 10-15 degrees. It can be adjusted when adjusting the closer.
Sometimes it becomes necessary to leave the door open. A function called “hold open” helps with this. Thanks to it, the sash can remain open for a long time. When the door is fully opened, a latch is activated in the device, which will hold the door in this position. To close the door you just need to pull it towards you a little. The fixation will be removed and it will close smoothly. If the door is not fully opened, it will operate normally.
How to adjust the door closer with your own hands for each individual function is described below.
When adjustment is needed
The door closer must be adjusted when the seasons change. Since this is a mechanical device, for its proper operation oil is used, which changes its physical characteristics depending on the air temperature. As it increases, the viscosity of the working fluid decreases, and as the temperature drops, the oil thickens. Therefore, in the first case, the door will open too easily, and in the second, considerable effort will be required. Therefore, in spring and autumn you need to adjust the operation of the door closer mechanism.
In addition, the door closer is adjusted if there are problems closing the door. They can be expressed as follows:
- closing too quickly or too slowly;
- the door moves suddenly or jerkily;
- the canvas does not stick to the frame for a long time.
How to adjust the door closer correctly
Adjusting the door closer comes down to adjusting the operation of the valves inside the device, which perform the function of a thermal damper. With their help, when the external temperature changes, the degree of increase or decrease in oil viscosity is compensated.
Adjusting the operation of the door closer with your own hands is not difficult. All you need is a screwdriver and knowledge of the setup process. Before proceeding, a visual inspection of the door is carried out and its operation is checked. This is necessary to identify operational irregularities and subsequently correct them.
Adjustment is made using screws. In some device models they are hidden under a protective cover that needs to be removed. In others, they are not hidden by anything and are located on the side of the device panel. For ease of adjustment, the screws are numbered 1 and 2. The first affects the overall closing speed, the second affects the force of the clap.
DIY adjustment instructions
The shutter closing speed is changed by screw number one. Turning it counterclockwise speeds it up. By turning the screw clockwise, the movement of the sash slows down.
The strength of the slam is the range in which the door begins to slow down before completely closing. If there is a problem with the exhaust, then you need to turn screw number two. By turning it clockwise you can slow down the speed of the clap. By turning the screw in the other direction, counterclockwise, you will, on the contrary, increase its strength.
To set up the function that holds the door open, you need to open it completely and then tighten the special lock. After this, the door will remain open if it is opened at an angle corresponding to the specified degree.
When adjusting the closer, follow the instructions given in the accompanying instructions for the device. Always remember that to avoid damaging the device, do not turn the screws more than two turns from the zero value.
By periodically inspecting the door closer and adjusting it yourself if necessary, you will extend the life of the device and ensure comfort when using the door.
Today, many people install door closers both at entrances and at interior doors. This device requires constant careful maintenance. After all, the constant opening and closing of the door causes an imbalance of its mechanisms. All malfunctions of the device are eliminated by adjusting it. Let's try to figure out how to adjust the door closer with your own hands.
Device installation
This job is not at all difficult to do. Even a person without experience in such matters can install the device independently.
Usually the closer kit includes a template. He helps with installation work. Installation is carried out as follows:
Instructions for use will help adjust the device yourself. Correct adjustment closer occurs as follows:
- Typical mechanisms, for example, Apecs, Armadillo, 9n50, contain two screws. One allows you to adjust the speed at which the door leaf moves. According to the instructions, it is possible to turn it a certain number of times. And the second screw is needed to adjust the clap speed. The mechanism can be weakened or made more rigid. Adjustment is carried out by loosening or tightening the spring. If it is tightened, the door will close slower. When weakened, on the contrary, the door leaf opens more freely. The adjustment screw must not be turned more than once. Otherwise, the device will depressurize, causing oil to leak out.
- Setting up afterclap. With him proper operation The door doesn't close all the way. In other words, there remains a gap until it is completely closed. Also, thanks to the slam, the door leaf is pressed tightly against door frame. Adjustment of the closing speed is carried out using a second screw, which is located directly on the closer body itself. As soon as ten to fifteen degrees remain until the door closes completely, the speed of the door slows down. Then the canvas is pressed tightly against the frame.
- Setting the open position of the door leaf. It is possible to configure the closer so that the door remains open for a long time. To do this, you need to know how to adjust the door closer. The mechanism has a very convenient “hold open” function. This keeps the door open. To set up this function, you need to open the door 90 degrees, and then tighten the lock. As a result, when the door is opened to a certain degree, it will remain in the same place.
The mechanism lock is activated and constantly holds the door leaf in the desired position for the required time period. To close the door, you need to pull it slightly towards closing. Then the commit will be canceled. When not fully opened, the door leaf moves in its usual mode without delay.
Video about self-adjustment devices:
Self-configuration of the device
In the closer mechanism, it is possible to configure only a few parameters: delay, clap and door closing speed. Modern mechanisms can be equipped with speed control in the range of 80-90 degrees.
When adjusting the mechanism with your own hands, it is important to know the following nuances:
- Closers are used for all types of doors - external and indoor. It is advisable to install fast speed for front door. This is necessary so that fewer insects and cold air enter the house. Room closers can be set to run slowly. When choosing a speed, factors such as seasonality and personal preferences of the residents of the house should be taken into account.
- If many people constantly enter and exit the room, then it is necessary to configure the closer to an intermediate stroke. This way you can organize the passage of several people in a row during one opening of the door. To ensure that the door leaf is always open, you need to use the corresponding screw.
- When people adjust the closer themselves, they often forget about the shutter. It is needed to make the door leaf close faster. It is important to find a “golden mean”. Then there will be no sudden slamming of the door or its impact on the door frame.
How to loosen the mechanism?
Often required auxiliary door closer adjustment. Sometimes it works hard. Then you need to put in extra effort to open the door. To make the door operate more smoothly, you need to loosen the screws. If you unscrew them completely, the door will remain open all the time.
The location of the screws may vary. They can be located in front or on the side, it depends on the design of the mechanism. The instructions will help you determine the location of the screws. In it, the manufacturer indicates the position of all elements of the closer. Today there are several models of door closers that are very popular. Their advantages are ease of operation, ease of installation and even adjustment.
The most popular models include:
- Dorma. Such devices are designed for installation on external and internal metal doors.
- Bulat. Frost-resistant door closers. Made from high strength steel alloy;
- Diplomat. Made from high strength steel. Such closers are resistant to sudden temperature changes.
- Apecs. They have a function in which it is possible to adjust the permanent fixation.
The models listed above have a number of advantages. Therefore, they will become more and more popular every year. Most of Manufacturers produce door closers from high quality materials. Due to this, the products last longer even in the most difficult conditions.
Advantages of Dorma door closers
Dorma produces strong and reliable door closers. Therefore, their products are popular. Today, the door closer mechanism is in great demand. Dorma TS-68.
This model is mounted at the top of the door. This option is distinguished by its versatility and functionality.
After all, such a device can be installed on almost any door. During installation no need to use mounting plates . Due to this, work is greatly simplified.
The Dorma model contains a special lever, through which the locking force of the door leaf is adjusted.
The closer of this model can be installed on both left and right type doors. Installation work quite simple. Almost everyone can handle them. There are the following methods for installing the mechanism:
- From the hinge side;
- On the side opposite to the hinges;
- Parallel installation option. When using this method, a special corner is mounted on the side opposite the hinges.
How to repair a door closer with your own hands?
It should be noted that often Replacing a device is cheaper than repairing it. After all, many manufacturers make a non-separable case. Therefore, replacing an inexpensive part, for example, a cuff, is not possible. And the user is forced to purchase a new door closer.
But a number of malfunctions can be eliminated with your own hands. The most common failure of the lever assembly occurs. The main reasons for such a malfunction are a break in the lever, destruction at the place where it is secured. Also, the lever assembly becomes faulty when the rod breaks as a result of damage to the housing. Such defects are eliminated by welding.
However, first you need to find out how advisable it is to repair the door closer. Perhaps a new rod will cost less than welding. When buying a new spare part, you should keep in mind that it must be from the same company as the closer mechanism.
If the device body is disassembled, repairs can be performed using the following tools::
- A set of hexagons;
- Pliers;
- Screwdrivers;
- Simple wrenches.
Abrupt closing of the door is caused by wear of the cuffs or seals. With such a breakdown Oil leaks from the device. When the closer mechanism is collapsible, then it is possible to replace these elements. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a new case or the entire mechanism.
It happens that the door closer opens too slowly. The cause of this malfunction may be high oil thickness. As a rule, this occurs after 4-6 years of using the device. In this case, it might be worth trying an oil change. But, as a rule, this is not provided for by the design.
There is another way to change the oil. But to implement this repair requires plumbing skills. It consists of the following:
- Make a hole in the body;
- Cut thread;
- Drain off the old thick oil;
- Pour new oil through the fitting.
The oldest door mechanism that slammed a door was a tied cobblestone. But with the development of scientific and technological progress, we have become accustomed to living and not overworking ourselves. It was then that the door closer was invented. The cobblestone was replaced with a spring. She gave an impulse and the door automatically closed. Soon this design was replaced with a smooth and even mechanism. Special devices have changed the process a little, but the essence remains the same. Therefore, we all need to know how to adjust the door closer.
This is a modern device for automatically closing the door
Types of door closers
This mechanism reduces the load and allows the door to close smoothly. This device can be equipped with any door in the room - it does not matter whether it is an entrance door or an interior door. Installation varies and depends on the type of mechanism. They are divided into the following:
- overhead mechanism, which is installed on the box beam or canvas, in door hinge instead of a rod;
- floor structure - it is laid during the installation of the floor covering;
- hidden device - it is located in a box or canvas and must be powerful. This type will require milling.
The type of door closer is selected depending on the weight and width of the blade: the larger these indicators, the more powerful the mechanism should be chosen.
Adjusting the door closer
Before you buy a door closer, you need to select it in accordance with the parameters. If used correctly, you will never have to deal with repair or replacement issues. But in addition to repairs at the very beginning, for normal operation you need to know how to adjust the door closer.
Changing the speed
In order for the door to close smoothly and not slam, you need to adjust the speed. Oil flowing from side to side regulates acceleration. It flows during movement and is responsible for the operation of the spring. Modern closers have two valves that control oil flow. Closing is divided into two stages:
Expensive models also have a third valve - 80–90 degrees before closing. But as a rule, two are enough. In summer the speed is higher, and in winter it decreases slightly. The bottom line is that the viscosity of a liquid is determined by temperature environment. When winter comes, we additionally adjust the first valve, which is responsible for the main speed.
Door fixation
To secure, simply change the position of the adjustment screw. If you adjust the closer correctly, it will work automatically, but you can only remove it from the fixed position yourself. It is possible to adjust a closer with a gear lever only using a special lever system. To change the fixation, you need to install a simple structure and without a fixation mode. But if you decide to use it for fixing, don’t worry, there’s nothing complicated here: we fix it at an advanced angle and unlock it ourselves.
If it is necessary to adjust the sensor with a sliding lever, then you should pay attention to the springy stop. The door locks when it reaches a certain angle, and the stupor is released. You just need to open it wider, and the latch lowers it itself.
How to strengthen the spring?
The work of the spring depends on the supply of oil, as does its speed, respectively. As we already know, the flow of oil is controlled by valves, and this is enough to strengthen or adjust the operation of the spring.
Adjustment features:
The video shows an example of adjustment:
Having correctly completed all the steps to adjust the closer, you can safely use the door. If adjustment does not help to cope with shortcomings when closing, then the reason is in the installation. It will be difficult to do something on your own here. The best option- this is to call a specialist and reinstall the closer. Use automated things and make your life comfortable.
