How to Adjust a Door Closer in 6 Simple Steps

Door closers keep your doors safe, secure, and easy to use. But if a door slams shut too hard or closes too quickly or too slowly, then it is time to adjust the closer. Adjusting most door closers is simple and can be done by anyone with the right tools and simple adjustments without the help of a professional.

In this guide, we’ll explain how door closers work, show you the correct way to adjust them, and highlight common mistakes to avoid.

How Door Closers Work

A door closer works with the help of a spring and hydraulic fluid to control the movement and speed of the door throughout the entire closing cycle. When you open the door, the spring gets compressed and stores energy. As you let it go, the spring pushes the door back to close it. The hydraulic fluid acts like a brake, slowing down the closing speed so the door, whether it’s a front door, fire door or an interior door, doesn't slam. Small valves inside the closer control the fluid speed, which changes how fast your door closes. Understanding how your door closer works helps you identify problems quickly and fix them the right way.

How to Adjust a Door Closer?

Fixing a door closer requires patience and attention to detail. Follow these simple steps to make the right adjustments and ensure your door is adjusted correctly and works properly.

Step 1: Remove the Cover

Start by finding and removing the door closer's plastic or metal cover. Most doors have a cylindrical closer that can be opened with the help of a flathead screwdriver, while others can be removed by simply sliding the cover off. After you remove the cover, take a note or a photo of all the internal parts so you know how to place everything properly after the adjustment. Keep the cover safe so you can put it back on later.

Step 2: Close all of the Valves

Once the cover is off, locate the adjustment screws on the side, cylinder, or door closer body. Using a screwdriver, gently turn each valve clockwise until it is fully closed. Don't overtighten them, as this creates too much tension and can damage the mechanism. This step ensures that no excess pressure builds up in the system, preventing damage to the parts and giving you full control over each adjustment.

Step 3: Adjust the Backcheck

The backcheck controls how fast your door opens and prevents it from swinging too hard against the wall. To adjust the backcheck, first loosen the two screw located at the top of the arm connecting to the wall. Find the backcheck valve, which is usually marked with "BC" or a similar label. Using a screwdriver, turn the screw counterclockwise to allow the door to open more easily, or clockwise to increase resistance. Make small adjustments and test as you go. The door should ideally slow down when it reaches the 75-degree angle.

Step 4: Adjust the Sweep/Main Speed

You must adjust the sweep speed/main speed of the closer to determine how fast or slow the door will move when closing. This can be done easily by turning the helical screw that's located on top of your closer body. If you turn it clockwise, it will increase the swing speed, and if you turn it counter-clockwise, it will make it slower.

It is important not to adjust it too high, however, particularly if children are present, as it can cause injuries if they stand too close while the door closes. Testing the speed is important to ensure a good fit based on local regulations and user preferences.

Step 5: Adjust the Latching Speed

The latching speed controls how fast your door closes in the final 10-15 inches before it fully shuts into the door frame. This step is important because if the door closes too slowly, it may not latch properly, while closing too fast can cause slamming. Find the latching speed valve, which is often marked with "L" or "Latch" on the closer body. Using a flat head screwdriver, turn the valve anticlockwise to make the door close faster in the final stage, or clockwise to slow it down. Make small quarter-turn adjustments and test the door after each change. The goal is to ensure the door closes securely without slamming.

Step 6: Test the Door

After making all the adjustments, test the door to ensure everything is working smoothly. Open and close it several times, paying attention to the backcheck, sweep speed, and latching speed at each stage. The door should open without resistance, close properly without slamming, and latch securely at the end. Once you’re satisfied, close the cover to protect the adjustment valves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Adjusting Door Closers

Working with door closers requires careful attention to avoid costly damage. Here are the most important mistakes to watch out for.

Overtightening Valve Screws

Turning the screws too tightly can damage the inside of the closer. Always make small, gentle turns instead of forcing them. This keeps the valves safe and makes sure the door closer works properly.

Adjusting with Spring Tension

Never try to fix the closer when the door is open. The spring inside is very strong and can hurt you. Always close the door first before you start working.

Checking for Oil Leaks

If you see oil leaking from the closer body or cover, stop adjusting right away. This means the seals are broken. A leaking closer cannot be fixed and should be replaced with a new one.

Using the Wrong Tools

Using a screwdriver that doesn't fit can strip the screws or damage the valves. Always use the correct size tool to ensure smooth adjustments and prevent the closer from getting damaged.

Not Recording Prior Settings

Before making changes, note how the parts are placed or take a photo. Forgetting this step can make it hard to put things back together correctly after adjustments.

Key Takeaways

Door closer adjustment may seem tricky at first, but with the right steps and a little patience, it can be done by anyone. By following the process carefully, avoiding common mistakes, and testing after each adjustment, you can keep your closer working smoothly. Well-adjusted automatic door closers not only last longer but also keep your doors secure, safe, and comfortable to use for years.

At Emerald Doors, we don’t just help you fix doors; we help you find the perfect ones for your home. From durable external doors that increase security to stylish internal doors that improve your interiors, our collection blends quality and design. Explore our range today and give your home the upgrade it deserves.

FAQs on Door Closer Adjustment

Here are some common questions people ask about adjusting door closers:

How do you adjust a door closer with two screws?

To adjust the pressure on a door closer, find the sweep speed valve and use a screwdriver to turn it. Turn anticlockwise to reduce pressure and make the door close gently. Turn clockwise to increase pressure for faster closing.

What do the numbers on a door closer represent?

The numbers on a door closer represent different adjustment valves that control closing speed. Number 1 usually controls sweep speed (main closing), number 2 controls latch speed (final closing), and number 3 controls backcheck (opening resistance).

How can I make my door close more tightly?

To make your door close more tightly, adjust the latch speed valve by turning it anticlockwise. This makes the door close faster in the last few inches, ensuring it latches properly and stays shut securely.

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