Many no longer remember such a device as an ordinary stone suspended on a rope between the leaf and the door frame. But this device is the first mechanism that served to automatically close the front door. Later, this device was replaced by a spring, which was also stretched between the frame and the doorway. But the noise when closing the door significantly irritated the residents of the lower floors.
Over time, a special design was developed that made the process of closing the door smooth and controlled. The door closing mechanism (closer) became such a device.
Install the closer on metal door easy, following step by step instructions and listening to the advice of professional experts.
Purpose of the finishing mechanism
There are known situations when installed simple springs forced elderly people to almost skip the front door, for fear of being hit in the back by the door leaf. Such troubles can be easily corrected by using a door finishing system. Installation door closer to metal doors allows you to close the doorway silently and smoothly in automatic mode.
This principle of operation of the mechanism reduces the load on the door fittings (hinges, lock) and prevents rapid wear of the entire structure.
If there is a need to leave the door open for some time, then installing a closer on a metal door with a fixing device will solve this problem. Thanks to this mechanism, a door opened more than 90 degrees will remain in place, i.e., will not close. If you push the door to overcome this angle, the door will close.
Design and device of the closer
Structurally, the closer consists of a housing where the spring is located and a lever that transmits force to the door leaf. Thanks to the use of hydraulics, the spring rod moves smoothly and without jerking. It is this property that contributes to the uniform movement of the door leaf.
According to the method of applying the force of the spring element to the movable lever, finishing mechanisms are divided into two types:
- Systems with type. They are easy to identify by the lever located perpendicular to the door leaf, which slightly spoils the appearance of the structure. Also, increased resistance of the door as it opens sometimes becomes a problem for children and the elderly. But reliability and low cost attract consumers.
- A more beautiful appearance of the doorway is given by installing a closer on a metal door with a sliding traction channel. The door opening force in such a system acts in inverse relationship than that of a lever closer. When the blade is opened by 30°, the further resistance of the blade is significantly weakened.
Operating principle of the finishing mechanism
The operation of the closing mechanism is based on the property of the spring installed in the closer body. So, when the door is opened, the spring is compressed, and then the lever and gear train exert pressure on the doorway due to the release spring, and the door closes.
The smoothness and uniformity of door closing is ensured by the damping property of the oil that fills interior space housings. When the spring straightens, oil flows into the working reservoir through hydraulic voids. The speed of fluid movement directly affects how quickly the door leaf closes.
Simplicity of design does not require large investments cash at the production stage, which has a positive effect on the final cost of installing a door closer to metal doors.
Types of door closers
There are three main types of closers, which are conventionally divided according to the place of their installation in doorway:
- invoices;
- floor;
- hidden.
Depending on what type of closing mechanism it is decided to use, the method of installing the closer on a metal door is determined. It is the design of the closer that determines the method of its installation.
Overhead finishing mechanisms
This model is the most popular, since installing a door closer on a metal door with your own hands is not particularly difficult for anyone. The device is placed in the upper corner of the doorway, and does not at all impede the movement of people.
To carry out external opening, the door closer is installed on a metal door by attaching the body to the leaf.
When the door swings open away from you, the mechanism body is located on door frame, and the lever, accordingly, is on the sash leaf. The peculiarity of overhead mechanisms is that it is possible to install a closer on a metal door, either a lever type or a sliding one. Installation of this type of structure on a glass door is impossible.
Floor closers
From the name it is clear that such a finishing mechanism is installed at the bottom of the doorway. It is used much less frequently than an invoice.
The door closer is installed during the construction stage flooring, as it requires special surface preparation. Most often used in offices or retail premises for automatic closing glass door. Structurally, it allows you to open the door in any direction.
The disadvantage of this design is frequent clogging mechanical elements.
Hidden closers
Hidden type devices are mounted inside the door frame, which is why they are also called framed. You can see such a mechanism only when the doorway is open.
Installing a door closer on a metal door is very difficult, as it requires the use of special equipment and tools. Typically, a hidden closer is installed during manufacture. door design.
The main disadvantage of hidden systems is the low coefficient useful action, therefore, the use of such mechanisms is advisable for lightweight interior doors.
Installation of finishing mechanism
Before installing the door closer on a metal door, you need to prepare some tools:
- screwdriver;
- drill;
- socket wrench (size selected according to model);
- drill;
- pencil;
- roulette
The step-by-step instructions for installing the finishing mechanism can be divided into three stages:
- Marking.
- Installation.
- Adjustment.
Marking the installation location of the mechanism
Typically, the manufacturer includes a special template in the finishing mechanism package, which schematically copies the natural size finished product. The template also contains mounting holes for fastening the door closer for a metal door. The factory template is printed on both sides of the tracing paper to be able to make markings for any type of door opening.
Two red lines are marked on the surface of the template so that you know how to correctly install the closer on a metal door. Vertical stripe aligned with virtual axis line door hinges, and horizontal - with the upper edge of the canvas.
The sequence of marking is as follows:
- Attach the template according to the red lines. The fastening process can be carried out using tape.
- Then we mark the holes. On a metal door, this operation is carried out with a core. In some cases, you can drill holes directly according to the template.
- Next, carefully remove the template and use a drill required diameter make holes.
If the manufacturer’s template is not available, you will need to make it yourself. In rare cases, marking the mounting location of the closer can be done without a template, but in this case the body may shift, which will lead to a loss in the quality of the work performed.
Door closer installation
After marking the installation site and drilling the holes, the main stage is the installation of the closer.
Step-by-step instructions for installing the door closer:
- The finishing mechanism housing is being fastened. There is nothing complicated in performing this operation; we simply fasten the product with four screws. In this case, it is necessary to position the body so that the adjusting elements are towards the hinges.
- The linkage is disconnected. Part of the lever with the shoe is attached to the box.
- The main lever is connected to the closer body. To do this, it is put on a tetrahedral shaft and secured with a screw.
- Next, the two levers are joined.
After completing all technological operations installation, it is necessary to check the quality of fastening, and then proceed with adjustment.
Adjusting the finishing mechanism
After all installation work it is necessary to adjust the finishing mechanism. Adjustment operations are performed with two screws located at the end of the device body.
One screw adjusts the door closing speed. To do this, turning it clockwise reduces the speed. Conversely, when the adjusting element is rotated in the opposite direction, the door will close faster.
The second adjusting screw sets the speed at which the door leaf closes. The rotation dependence of this element is similar to that in the previous case. Clockwise rotation reduces the abutment speed, counterclockwise increases it.
Usually the adjustment screws are hidden decorative panel, so it must be removed before adjustment. After setting up the door, the panel is installed in place.
Installation of a closer on a fire door
For fireproof metal doors, closers are installed in a parallel way, without drilling holes in the canvas, as this is prohibited by fire safety measures.
To do this, a special mounting plate is first welded onto the metal door, onto which the housing of the finishing mechanism is subsequently attached. Because fire door has a large mass, then the selection of finishing devices should be carried out according to the weight of the web.
Correct installation The finishing mechanism plays an important role in the trouble-free operation of the doorway. However, great importance is attached to compliance with the operating rules of the device:
- It is strictly forbidden to forcefully push the door, as force leads to premature wear of mechanical parts. Increase door closing speed better method adjustments.
- You cannot additionally load the door leaf with any weights. Children riding on the doors is not allowed.
- When installing the closer outdoors, it is necessary to protect the mechanism from precipitation and sun rays. Adjusting the device operating in cold weather climatic conditions, should be carried out twice a year.
- It is also necessary to lubricate the rubbing elements of the structure at least twice a year.
- If there is no locking system, the door cannot be blocked with foreign objects.
Compliance with these simple rules will increase the service life of the device.
Closing mechanism installed on entrance doors apartment buildings, will save residents from many troubles that arise when heavy load on door leaf. Great value It also has the fact that modern door closers have a beautiful appearance, are easy to use, and are easy to install yourself.
If you don’t have the time or extra money to improve your door design, you can make a door closer with your own hands. In this case, you can use the simplest items that you probably have in your pantry. Like homemade mechanism will allow you to eliminate the problem of knocking doors at minimal cost.
You can assemble a simple door closer yourself from scrap materials.
Before you try to make a door closer from scrap materials with your own hands, you need to determine what tasks this device should perform. Let's look at the main functions of the closer:
- Shock absorption – protecting the door from impacts when closing abruptly, for example, from a draft or with great force. Thus, the closer prevents damage to the coating of both the canvas and the frame.
- Adjusting the speed of movement of the door leaf does not allow sudden movements either in the direction of closing or in the opposite direction.
- Closing delay - the canvas is delayed at a certain distance from the box and this ensures a smoother closing.
- Locking the open position – if necessary, you can lock the door in the wide open position without fear that it will accidentally slam shut.
- Pulling the door - if insufficient force was applied to close it, the device will complete the process by pulling the leaf directly to the frame.
The closer performs three functions: regulates the door closing speed, slows down and brakes
Of course, a homemade door stop is not capable of fully performing all the given functions, but it is quite capable of coping with the main design flaws.
Automotive parts
If you don’t know how to make a door closer with your own hands, look for suitable spare parts in a car door. It's great if you have an unnecessary spare part that ensures smooth movement of the trunk in five-door models. In this case, a car door traffic stop can be installed in the opening of an interior or even an entrance door. How to make a door closer from a spare car door with your own hands? To attach the lifter rod and cylinder, you will need to attach a bracket with “fingers” to the parts. Screw one side of it to the wall or frame, and the other to the canvas. With the help of such a device, you can ensure not only smooth movement of the door, but also hold it in the open position if necessary.
You can build a door closer with your own hands using spare parts from a car door closer
Rubber bulb
You can make a door closer for a door system with your own hands from a piece of a car inner tube, a hose, an elastic band, a cable, a wrist expander, or even from an object such as a rubber bulb. If you were unable to find such a thing at home, you can easily purchase it at any pharmacy for almost pennies.
How to make a door closer with your own hands from a rubber bulb:
- Mark the location of the device. It can be placed on the box from the side external corner canvas, and closer to the loops. The second option is preferable, as it will ensure a smoother closing of the door.
- Using a nail or screw, secure the bulb so that its sharp end faces the frame.
When the canvas hits a homemade limiter, soft shock absorption and silent slamming are provided. The pear is slowly deflated under, smoothly bringing it to the loot. When opened, the rubber part quickly restores its shape and can again perform the functions of a closer assigned to it. In the same way, you can make a homemade door closer from a tennis ball. You can secure this part with your own hands using a self-tapping screw. To prevent the ball from moving out of its place, strengthen the fixation area with a rubber gasket or a piece of plywood.
Spring
The simplest option to make a door closer with your own hands is to use a spring.
Not only the size, but also the stiffness of the spring is of decisive importance. It should provide the effect of slowing down the movement, but at the same time attract the canvas quite smoothly.
This part is attached directly to the doorway. One end of it is screwed to the frame, and the other is mounted to the edge of the door leaf. The closer the spring is to the hinges, the less effect it provides.
You can use a spring as a material at hand to make a door closer.
This home-made door closer works as follows: when opening the doors, the spring is tensioned and prevents the door from being opened too much. sudden movements. In order to fix the blade in the open position, you need to block the reverse movement of the device. If you don't close the door completely, this small part will do everything for you, pulling it to the frame.
Magnet
A magnet is more of a kind of alternative to a door closer. Making such a mechanism with your own hands is as easy as shelling pears. To do this you will need a screwdriver, self-tapping screws, a chisel, a metal plate with holes and a magnet.
To ensure a tight rebate, it is recommended to install the parts almost flush. You can leave a small protrusion so that the magnet and metal can adhere to each other. First, outline the position of the elements. The magnet is attached to the frame, and the metal plate is attached to the door leaf in such a way that closed position they overlapped each other. Using a chisel, scrape the coating to the required depth. Using self-tapping screws, fix both parts and check their operation.
Using ordinary available materials, you can make a door closer with your own hands. It can be used as a temporary device or you can completely stop with this choice.
I like
33By the nature of its activity, which is the sale of components for metal-plastic windows and doors, I constantly encounter the fact that often seemingly high-quality door closers from world-leading manufacturers in this market segment for some reason refuse to work after just a year, and sometimes they don’t even withstand six months of use. After several visits to clients, it was determined that the main reason for short-term operation is incorrect installation of the door closer or incorrect selection of the door closer based on the weight and width of the door. Therefore, even the installation of a door closer by a door manufacturer does not always guarantee correct and durable operation of the closer due to the low qualifications of the installers. Quite often, in order to save money, closers are purchased and installed by users themselves, and unqualified installation also entails problems in the proper operation of the closer. And for some reason no one bothers to read the installation instructions. In this article I will tell you how to install a closer so that it works according to the European standard EN 1154 , according to which door closers must ensure correct operation for 500 thousand opening-closing cycles.
How to choose the right door closer?
Since the vast majority of installed door closers are top-mounted door closers with a lever rod (pictured in photo 1), then in the text below the main emphasis is placed on such door closers.
When choosing a door closer, the main parameters of the door on which you are going to install the closer are taken into account - its width and weight. The main characteristic of any closer is the closing force (or they also say “closer size”). European standard EN 1154 the efforts that the closer must develop are regulated. Depending on the size and weight of the door, closers can demonstrate different sizes closing force from EN1 to EN7 (Table 1).
Table 1
When choosing a door closer with optimal closing force, they usually focus on the largest parameter. For example: door weight 50 kg (force EN3 ), and the width is 1000 mm (strength EN4 ). In this case, we select a closer with a closing force EN4 . It is not recommended to install a closer that has a closing force several orders of magnitude higher than required. Since the higher the closing force of the door, the more force will have to be applied to open it. Nowadays there are many door closers on the market. different manufacturers, their cost varies from 500 rubles and reaches tens of thousands. As a rule, most closers have a closing force range from 2 to 4. That is, for example, the GEZE TS 2000 V door closer can take the values EN2 , EN3-4 and EN5 . The force is adjusted by shifting the closer relative to the hinges. Second important factor when choosing a closer, it is working temperature range. Temperature change environment has a significant impact on the operation of the door closer. Depending on where the closer is installed, indoors or outdoors, you should pay close attention to its operating temperature range. For example, the same GEZE TS 2000 V guarantees correct operation at temperatures from –30°C. up to + 40°C. This door closer can be installed on both internal and external office doors. The third factor is the presence of adjustments for the closer to ensure comfortable operation of the closer mechanism in different conditions operation. Closers in low and medium price category, as a rule, have two adjustments: 1. Closing speed from 180° to 15°; 2. “Final slam” - implies a slight increase in the speed of door movement in the last 15°. This function is necessary for doors with a latch in order for the lock to engage (Figure 1).
Rice. 1
There are door closers with wider functionality; they contain additional adjustments to solve additional problems:
- Back Check- opening damping or wind brake, which protects the door from hitting the wall during sudden opening or gusts of wind. At the same time, some models implement the function of adjusting the response angle;
- Delay Action- closing delay, allows you to delay the closing of the door for a short period of time, which is very convenient when carrying small loads;
- Hold Open- this is the ability to lock the doors in the open position. Thanks to this feature, there is no need to hold the door, and no damage is caused to the closer.
How to install a door closer?
So, the closer has been selected. Now you need to install it. Next, let's look at the installation using the GEZE TS 2000 V door closer as an example (photo 2). As a rule, all door closers are equipped with wiring diagram or installation instructions. The scale of the paper template is 1:1, that is, life-size, designed for easy and quick installation door closer without using measuring tool(photo 3).
Photo 2
Photo 3
1) To install the door closer, first of all, you need to decide on which side of the door the mechanism will be located. This will determine how to mount the closer, on the door leaf or on the door frame (Fig. 2).
Rice. 2
2) Using tape, the template is based on the door leaf (or frame) relative to the axis of the hinges and then markings are made mounting holes Holes are drilled under the closer body and rod and according to the marks. c) Then we determine the required closing force based on the weight and dimensions of the door and fasten the closer body in one of three positions (Fig. 3).
Rice. 3
4) This closer has a telescopic rod, which has two moving parts: one extends from the other and is fixed with a special screw. Therefore, we loosen the adjusting bolt of the rod and install the second non-adjustable part of the rod on the closer body (the rod is secured with a 6 mm hexagon bolt). We attach the rod at an angle of 80° to the surface of the door as shown on the template. Then we set the angle to 90°, slightly pushing the adjustable part of the rod, and tighten the fixing screw when the door is in the closed position and the lever is folded in the knee. This way the closer will work with a slam if the door has a latch. Or we push the rod until the adjustable part of the rod is at 90° degrees to the surface of the door, if the door is without a latch, for a softer closing without slamming. Important!!! The door closer transmits a lot of force to the door and operates in conditions of constant vibration, so the closer and rod must be firmly and securely mounted.
5) After installing the closer, we adjust it. Using the adjusting screws, we set the optimal speed of closing the door and closing the door for reliable operation of the latch. There is no need to turn the screws a full turn, since changes in the closing speed can already be felt when turning the screw just a quarter of a turn (see Fig. 1.). If the installation of the closer is difficult, for example, when the width of the closer body is greater than the width of the door frame, or when the closer is installed on a door leaf with an overlay, where the mounting screws can interfere with the correct functioning of closing the door, use a special adapter - a mounting plate, which is purchased separately (photo 4).
Photo 4
The mounting board is installed using the same template (photo 3) on self-tapping screws, and the closer body is fixed directly to the board using screws.
And in the end, I would like to list a few useful tips that will extend the life of the door closer:
- do not support the doors with foreign objects (stones, bricks, wedges, etc.), it is better to disconnect the rod from the closer if you need the door to be open for a long time (for convenience, many closers are equipped with detachable rods);
- adjust the door closing every six months (at the beginning of winter and at the beginning of summer);
- Once a year it is necessary to replace the grease in the joint connecting the two halves of the closer rod. Feedback To the author
If it didn't remain open, they installed a closer. Previously, a stretched thick spring was responsible for this action. The disadvantage was the sudden slamming of the sash. Modern products smoothly close the leaf and ensure its tight fit to the door frame. The design of the mechanism is simple. However, the specifics of installing door closers different models different.
To select and install a door closer, you need to take into account the design of the product. By installation location The following models are distinguished:
- Invoices install from above door block. The elements are fastened to the canvas, frame, wall or additional structures.
- Models floor type is more often used for glass sashes. The product is attached from below to the canvas and the floor.
- Hidden closers are hidden inside the door block. Installation is very difficult, maintenance is inconvenient.
Models vary transfer of force from the working spring to the lever mechanism:
- Products with knee, lever or articulated rod. The device is the same, it just has three names. A design feature is a metal lever perpendicular to the door leaf. The mechanism works reliably, but requires a lot of effort when opening the door, and also looks ugly on the door block.
- Models sliding type the operating lever is constantly parallel to the blade. Appearance not spoiled by a protruding knee. The door opens smoothly with less effort.
Door closers differ internal device:
- Cam more often used in systems hidden installation or models with channel traction. The heart-shaped cam is located on the lever axis and is pressed on both sides by rollers. When the sash opens, the cam compresses the working spring. When the blade begins to close, the spring returns to its original position. At the same time, the cam rotates in the opposite side, which creates a smooth closing of the sash. The cam mechanism is adjusted using an eccentric.
- Toothed or hydraulic The mechanism has a rack and pinion transmission of working force. A toothed gear is installed on the lever axis. When the sash opens, the gear begins to rotate. The teeth push the rack, driving the piston, which compresses the working spring. As the sash closes, the tension releases. The spring expands, pushes the piston, and the entire mechanism operates in reverse order. Smooth opening is ensured by the channels through which engine oil flows inside. The mechanism is adjusted by screws that change the diameter of the entrance of each channel.
Hydraulic ones are usually equipped with a lever arm and are the most popular models.
Where to put it?
In the building, the automatic closer is installed on the entrance doors from the side of the room. The mechanism body must be protected from the aggressive effects of adverse weather conditions. There are models open installation, not afraid of frost and rain, but it is also better to place them on the side of the room. If necessary, you can install a closer on the wicket or gate.
What to consider when choosing?
When choosing a model for installing a door closer, the width and weight of the sash are taken into account. All products are classified according to the EN 1154 standard. An incorrectly selected model will quickly fail or create certain difficulties in closing the door. Closers are divided into seven gradations with the designation EN 1 – EN 7. Each class is designed for a certain weight and width of the sash.
The width and weight of the door do not always coincide with the data indicated in the standard classification. The product is selected according to the maximum indicator. You can install an automatic closer, where the permissible maximum and minimum limits are indicated in the characteristics. The manufacturer indicates the force range, for example, EN 2–EN 4.
For outdoor installation choose special street models. If the product is intended for internal use, in cold weather the viscosity of the oil will change, hydraulic system will stop working normally, which will create certain difficulties with opening the door.
The standard functions of all door closers include adjusting the speed and force of movement of the sash in the sector of 180–15° and 15–0°. Models with additional functions allow:
- set a pause for closing the door;
- prevent sudden opening;
- adjust the clap force;
- fix the door leaf in the open state.
How to properly install a door closer?
The entire process of installing a door closer with your own hands consists of three steps. First, the installation diagram is determined, and it depends on door opening directions:
- If the sash opens towards the closer, the lever is attached to the door frame, and the mechanism body is attached to the door.
- When opening back, the lever is fixed to the sash, and the body to the frame.
For any installation scheme, the adjusting bolts point towards the canopies.
The second step is to study the instructions. Inside the product packaging you need to find a diagram for installing the closer, drawn on a scale of 1:1. Sample apply to the door and mark the exact attachment points.
The third step involves installation, consisting of the following actions:
- Using the applied template markings, the mechanism body is first attached. Then proceed to install the lever. If the product was sold assembled, the hinge is temporarily disconnected.
- An elbow is installed on the axle. Fixation occurs with a nut. When installing the knee and lever, their location is taken into account, which depends on the purpose of the closer. To close the door smoothly, the knee is placed perpendicular to the sash, and the lever is placed at an angle. The joining of elements is carried out with the blade in a closed position. If the purpose of installing the mechanism is the closing function, then the lever is placed perpendicular to the sash. Then adjust the length of the knee.
- After attaching the two halves of the mechanism, they are connected with a hinge.
Supplied included fasteners, allowing you to install the closer on plastic door or from any other material. There are usually differences between self-tapping screws, for example, for wood and metal.
On non-standard doors it is not always possible to install the mechanism according to the template. For such cases, auxiliary elements are used:
- in a deep opening, the lever or mechanism body is fixed to the door frame through a mounting bracket;
- in order not to damage the pattern on the door or high-mounted glass, attach the mechanism to an additional mounting plate;
- if the thickness of the sash protrudes beyond the boundaries of the frame or the frame is too narrow, the alignment of both parts of the mechanism is performed using mounting plates.
Auxiliary installation elements may be included with the product, but usually corners and plates are purchased separately.
Adjustment
After installing the door closer, adjustments are made; at this time, the knee lever should be positioned at an angle of 90° relative to the door leaf. The automatic door closer is adjusted using screws located on the mechanism body. After each turning with a screwdriver in the directions indicated by the arrows, the speed of the sash is tested.
The closing mode is adjusted in two door opening zones: 180–15° and 15–0°. The screws cannot be completely unscrewed. Depressurization of the housing may occur followed by oil leakage.
Operation and care
The automatic closer does not limit the opening of the sash. To prevent the mechanism from breaking, install a stop that prevents the door from swinging open too much. For models with a slider lever, the limiter is mounted in the guide channel.
Blocking the door open with various supports or manual force to quickly close the door wears out the mechanism, and sometimes even breaks parts. At outdoor installation The closer body is protected by a visor from precipitation and sun. To extend service life, all moving parts are lubricated.
If the doors have no defects and the conditions of use are met, the closer will serve the time guaranteed by the manufacturer.
The oldest door mechanism that completed the slamming of a door was a cobblestone tied to the jamb with a string. Then humanity, not wanting to bother themselves, replaced the cobblestone with a spring, the ends of which were attached to the box and to the canvas. The spring, imparting impulse not only to the door, but also to the not-so-nimble backs, still serves as the main element in most modifications of door closers. Only its operation became smooth and controlled due to the introduction of special devices. Because home handyman you need to know how to install an improved mechanism, and how to adjust the door closer, if you decide to equip your property with automation for lazy users yourself.
Video instructions for home craftsmen
Types of closers and installation methods
Installing a soft closing door mechanical device reduces the load on the fittings, protects the hinges and the structure itself from premature wear. You can equip it with both the entrance and interior door, and a door between the house and the bathhouse extension or garage.
Differences in the installation method determined the classification of closers, which are divided into:
- overhead mechanisms installed on a box beam or on a canvas, or in door hinges instead of a rod;
- floor structures, the laying of which is carried out during the installation of the floor covering and is usually designed in advance;
- hidden devices located either in the box if its power is sufficient, or in the canvas. To equip this type of mechanism, cavities must be milled, which should not be undertaken without experience.
The simplest and most accessible for an inexperienced performer would be the overhead installation of a door closer, the process of which in most cases is described in detail by the manufacturer. Caring manufacturers now add to their products not only detailed description, but also a template that exactly follows the contour of the mechanism with clear markings of points for fastening. Almost all actions are carried out according to the standard algorithm, but there are nuances that should not be forgotten.
Attention. Before equipping the door with the device, it must be repaired and the fittings adjusted. The canvas should not “shuffle” along the floor or hang crookedly on its hinges. The movement of the loops should not be heavy.
Construction installation options
Mechanisms with levers or sliding channels can be attached both from the inside and outside of the interior door structure. Only on outer side entrance doors It is not advisable to install the device due to negative influence characteristic changes in atmospheric temperature.
The fact is that the smooth movement of the spring controlling the lever ensures the variable flow of machine oil from one cavity to another. And in cold weather it becomes more viscous and thick, and in hot weather it becomes more liquid. Therefore, due to temperature fluctuations, the operation of the device will have to be adjusted more often than specified by the manufacturer, which ultimately reduces the operating life of the system.
You can choose one of three common installation schemes:
- The standard installation predetermines the fixation of the main working body on the canvas. With this arrangement, the lever is attached to the lintel of the door frame.
- The upper diagram dictates the fastening of the mechanism to the ceiling - the upper box beam, and the lever shoe is screwed to the door leaf.
- The parallel arrangement is similar standard version, but the lever is not attached perpendicularly, but parallelly using a mounting bracket.
The installation diagram of the door closer depends on the location of the hinges. That is, from the direction of movement of the canvas when opening/closing. If the door is opened “pull”, then the device is mounted as standard on the door leaf, and the lever is attached to the box beam. The “on my own” option obviously presupposes top mount devices to the ceiling with fixation of the lever on the canvas.
There are also non-standard cases, such as, for example, insufficient door clearance. But cunning developers found a way out of structurally difficult situations by offering mounting angles and plates to home and professional craftsmen.
Installation of a door closer in such cases is carried out according to parallel circuit in two ways:
- the lever is secured in parallel, placing its shoe on the mounting angle fixed on the box;
- The main body of the closer is attached to the box beam using a mounting plate.
Briefly about door closers with sliding rod
Sliding rod devices are attractive due to their optimized design, which practically does not interfere with the interior decor. Among the advantages is the ability to upgrade the device with an electromagnetic clamp or fire alarm. Such closers operate with great force, and there is no way to control their operation, but equipping them with an elastic limiter insert will allow you to set the required opening angle of the sash. Most modifications are installed according to schemes similar to the perpendicular option described above. But universal models with a sliding channel rod can be mounted on both sides.
Attention. Installation of duct (slider) closers on the opposite side of the door hinges dictates that the device be equipped with a door leaf opening angle limiter. It can be replaced by a specialized stopper built into the slider.
Door closer installation algorithm
After carefully selecting the correct location and determining the layout, further actions are performed in an almost identical sequence:
- We apply the included template and glue it with tape to the installation site;
- through the “kern” points designated by the manufacturer for the locations of future holes for fasteners, there should be 2 for the lever and 4 for the device;
- It is advisable to drill the mounting holes in advance;
- First we attach the lever, followed by the body;
- After fixing the device and the lever, install the second half of the rod on the axis of the closer and make adjustments to the length. The lever must be strictly perpendicular to the closed door leaf.
Attention. The adjusting screws should be directed towards the hinge beam of the box.
Fasteners in complete set supplied by the manufacturer, there is no need to buy or exchange it for other hardware. It is important not to deviate one iota from the instructions, and success is guaranteed.
Adjusting the operation of the structure
After connecting the rod and the main working body into a single mechanism, it remains to find out how to adjust the door closer. This procedure is usually accomplished by adjusting two adjusting screws. Two screws are needed to set the speed of the web in two modes:
- by positioning the first screw we will set the closing speed in the range of 180-15º;
- with the second screw we “program” the speed in the range of 15-0º.
The required speed is set by turning the screws along and against the thread. You probably won't have to make more than one turn.
Attention. Don't adjust the speed of the blade too hard. Two turns will lead to a violation of the seal, the screw falling out and leaking oil.
If the door is equipped with closers with additional functions, such as:
- BC (abbreviation BackCheck) - a damper that resists too sudden forces in the range of 70-110º;
- FOP (from Hold-Open) – retains the blade in the open position;
- DC (abbreviated Delayed Closing) – prolonged moment of movement in the zone of 110-70º,
Having made sure that the speed characteristics correspond to the desires, and the movement ends with the required “after clap” or “pressure”, we close the axis of the closer with a decorative cap.
Now the work can be considered complete and you can start using the automatically closing door. The closing mechanism will function properly if children do not swing on the doors, if normal operation the closer will not be disturbed by supporting devices and unreasonable hands, always trying to slam or slow down. If you follow the operating instructions, the device will last a long time.