Installing a door closer is a simple task that can be completed in a few steps. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the closer is installed properly. If you are not comfortable installing the closer yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you. However, if you are confident in your DIY skills, you can follow the steps below to install the closer yourself.
Before you begin, gather all of the necessary tools and materials. You will need a door closer, a drill, a screwdriver, a level, and a pencil. Once you have all of the necessary tools and materials, you can begin the installation process. First, determine the location of the door closer. The closer should be installed on the door frame, approximately 6 inches above the top of the door. Once you have determined the location of the closer, mark the location with a pencil.
Next, drill a hole for the closer. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the closer’s mounting screws. Once you have drilled the hole, insert the closer’s mounting screws. Tighten the screws until the closer is securely in place. Finally, adjust the closer’s settings to ensure that it is operating properly. You can adjust the closer’s speed, latching force, and backcheck. Once you have adjusted the closer’s settings, test the closer to ensure that it is operating properly.
Preparation and Materials Required
Before embarking on the door closer installation, it is crucial to ensure you have the necessary materials and prepare the work area adequately.
Materials Required:
To complete the installation seamlessly, you will need the following materials:
| Tool/Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Door Closer | The main component that controls the closing speed and force of the door |
| Mounting Bracket | Attaches the door closer to the frame or door |
| Screws | Used to secure the closer to the mounting bracket |
| Drill | For creating pilot holes for screws |
| Screwdriver | For tightening screws |
| Template (Optional) | Provides a guide for accurate placement of the closer and bracket |
| Level | Ensures the mounting bracket is installed horizontally |
| Pencil/Marker | For marking screw locations |
| Measuring Tape | For precise measurements during installation |
| Safety Glasses | For protection during drilling and installation |
| Adjustable Wrench (Optional) | For tightening the closer arm or bracket in some cases |
Determining the Hinge Side
Determining the hinge side of a door is crucial for installing a door closer. The hinge side refers to the side of the door where the hinges are located. Identifying the hinge side ensures that the door closer is installed on the correct side, allowing it to operate effectively and prevent the door from swinging open uncontrolled.
Steps to Determine the Hinge Side:
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1. Visual Inspection:
Examine the door from the outside. The hinge side is typically the side where the door handle is located.
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2. Door Sweep or Weatherstripping:
Look for weatherstripping or a door sweep, which is a seal on the bottom of the door that helps keep out drafts. The door sweep is usually installed on the hinge side to ensure a tight seal when the door is closed.
Hinge Side Non-Hinge Side Weatherstripping or door sweep present No weatherstripping or door sweep -
3. Hinge Pins:
Locate the hinge pins on the door frame. The hinge pins are the metal rods that the hinges rotate on. On the hinge side, the hinge pins will be visible on the outside of the door frame.
Connecting the Arm to the Door
Once the closer is secured to the frame and door, it’s time to connect the arm to the door. This process involves attaching the arm to the door’s surface using screws or bolts. Here are the detailed steps:
1. Position the Arm:
Hold the arm in place against the surface of the door, ensuring that it’s aligned correctly with the closer’s spindle. Make sure the arm is extended and perpendicular to the door’s edge.
2. Mark the Screw Holes:
Use a pencil to mark the locations of the screw holes on the door’s surface. These holes should be positioned along the arm’s mounting plate.
3. Drill Pilot Holes (Optional):
In some cases, it may be necessary to drill pilot holes into the door before inserting the screws. This helps prevent the wood from splitting and ensures a secure hold.
4. Align and Insert Screws:
Align the screw holes in the arm with the pilot holes (if drilled) or the marked locations on the door. Insert the screws through the arm’s mounting plate and into the door.
5. Check for Alignment and Tightness:
Gently tighten the screws using a screwdriver or wrench. Ensure that the arm is still aligned correctly and that it’s firmly secured to the door. Avoid overtightening the screws, as this could damage the door or the arm.
Adjusting the Closing Speed
Once your door closer is installed, you may need to adjust the closing speed to fit your needs. Follow these steps to adjust the closing speed of your door closer:
- Locate the adjustment screws on the door closer. There should be two screws, one for the latching speed and one for the closing speed.
- Use a screwdriver to turn the closing speed screw clockwise to increase the closing speed or counterclockwise to decrease the closing speed.
- Test the closing speed by opening the door and allowing it to close. Adjust the screw as needed until you are satisfied with the closing speed.
- Once you have adjusted the closing speed, tighten the screws to secure the settings.
Latching Speed vs. Closing Speed
It’s important to understand the difference between latching speed and closing speed when adjusting a door closer. Latching speed controls the speed at which the door closes the final few inches, while closing speed controls the speed at which the door closes from fully open to almost closed.
| Adjustment Screw | Function |
|---|---|
| Latching speed screw | Controls the speed at which the door closes the final few inches |
| Closing speed screw | Controls the speed at which the door closes from fully open to almost closed |
By understanding the difference between these two adjustments, you can fine-tune your door closer to achieve the ideal closing speed for your application.
Setting the Hold-Open Angle
The hold-open angle is the angle at which the door stays open when it is pushed to a certain point. This feature is useful in situations where you need to keep the door open for a specific reason, such as when moving items in and out of the room. To set the hold-open angle:
- Open the door to the desired angle.
- Locate the hold-open arm on the door closer.
- Insert a hex key or other tool into the adjustment screw located on the hold-open arm.
- Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase the hold-open angle or counterclockwise to decrease it.
- Once the desired angle is set, tighten the locknut on the adjustment screw.
- Close the door and test the hold-open feature to ensure it works as intended.
- If necessary, adjust the hold-open angle further until it meets your requirements.
| Adjustment Screw Location | Adjustment Direction | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Top of the hold-open arm | Clockwise | Increases hold-open angle |
| Top of the hold-open arm | Counterclockwise | Decreases hold-open angle |
Lubricating the Closer
Periodic lubrication of the door closer is essential to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. Here’s how to lubricate a door closer:
Step 1: Gather Materials
You will need the following materials:
- Door closer lubricant (silicone-based or graphite-based)
- Clean cloth or paper towels
- Phillips head screwdriver or hex key (optional)
Step 2: Clean the Closer
Remove any dirt or debris from the closer’s exterior using a clean cloth. If necessary, use a screwdriver or hex key to remove the cover plate for easier access to the internal components.
Step 3: Identify Lubrication Points
Locate the designated lubrication points on the closer. These are typically small holes or fittings marked with “Lubricate” or “Oil.” Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific locations.
Step 4: Apply Lubricant
Using an eyedropper or spray nozzle, liberally apply the lubricant to the designated points. Avoid overlubrication, as excess lubricant can attract dirt and grime.
Step 5: Wipe Away Excess
Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe away any excess lubricant that seeps out. This will prevent it from dripping onto the floor or other surfaces.
Step 6: Exercise the Closer
Repeatedly open and close the door several times to distribute the lubricant evenly throughout the mechanism. This will help improve its smooth operation.
Step 7: Reinstall the Cover Plate (Optional)
If you removed the cover plate in Step 2, carefully reinstall it and tighten the screws or hex bolts securely.
Step 8: Troubleshooting
If your door closer continues to have problems after lubrication, you may need to:
- Check the mounting screws: Ensure that all mounting screws are tight and secure.
- Adjust the arm tension: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust the tension on the closer’s arm to match the weight of the door.
- Clean the linkage: Remove the linkage from the closer and clean it with a degreaser to remove any dirt or debris.
- Contact a professional: If you are unable to resolve the issue, contact a qualified locksmith or door hardware specialist for assistance.
How to Install a Door Closer
Installing a door closer is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the door closer is installed correctly and functions properly.
To install a door closer, you will need the following tools:
* Phillips head screwdriver
* Drill
* 1/8-inch drill bit
* 3/16-inch drill bit
* Measuring tape
* Level
* Pencil
* Safety glasses
Once you have gathered the necessary tools, follow these steps to install the door closer:
1.
Determine the location of the door closer. The door closer should be installed on the top of the door, centered between the door and the frame. Mark the location of the door closer with a pencil.
2.
Drill pilot holes for the screws. Using the 1/8-inch drill bit, drill two pilot holes through the door at the location of the door closer.
3.
Attach the door closer to the door. Place the door closer over the pilot holes and secure it with the screws.
4.
Adjust the door closer. There are two adjustments that can be made to the door closer: the closing speed and the latch speed. The closing speed controls how quickly the door closes, and the latch speed controls how quickly the door latches. To adjust the closing speed, turn the screw labeled “CS” clockwise to slow down the closing speed or counterclockwise to speed up the closing speed. To adjust the latch speed, turn the screw labeled “LS” clockwise to slow down the latch speed or counterclockwise to speed up the latch speed.
5.
Test the door closer. Once the door closer is installed and adjusted, test it to make sure that it is functioning properly. The door should close smoothly and quietly, and the latch should engage securely.
People Also Ask About How to Install Door Closer
How do you adjust a door closer closing speed?
To adjust the closing speed, turn the screw labeled “CS” clockwise to slow down the closing speed or counterclockwise to speed up the closing speed.
How do you adjust a door closer latch speed?
To adjust the latch speed, turn the screw labeled “LS” clockwise to slow down the latch speed or counterclockwise to speed up the latch speed.
How do you install a door closer on a metal door?
To install a door closer on a metal door, you will need to use self-tapping screws. Drill pilot holes through the door at the location of the door closer, and then secure the door closer with the self-tapping screws.
