What is the common problem of door closer?

Door closers are hydraulic devices designed to automatically close doors smoothly after they have been opened. They play an important role in maintaining security, protecting from noise and drafts, and complying with fire codes. However, as with any frequently used mechanical device, door closers can develop problems over time that prevent them from functioning properly.

In this article, we will examine some of the most common issues that arise with door closers and their potential causes and solutions. Understanding typical door closer problems can help building owners, managers and maintenance staff quickly diagnose and resolve them to keep doors working safely and effectively.

1. The door slams shut

One of the most noticeable and disruptive door closer problems is when the door starts slamming loudly instead of closing smoothly. There are a few potential reasons this occurs:

• The closer spring has become too tight or strong. Door closer springs are designed to weaken over time as the mechanism wears down. If a newer replacement spring was installed, it could be too powerful for the door.
• The swing speed hasn’t been properly adjusted. Door closer speed is controlled by adjustable valves that regulate air or fluid in the mechanism. If these are set too fast, the door will slam.
• Hydraulic fluid is low. Insufficient hydraulic fluid in the closer cylinder can prevent the speed from being dampened properly.

To fix a door that slams, try adjusting the swing speed control valves to a slower setting. Most closers have separate valves for closing (sweep) and latching speed. If adjusting the speed doesn’t resolve the issue, the closer spring may need to be replaced with one that has an appropriate strength rating for the door. Low hydraulic fluid levels can be addressed by adding more fluid.

2. The door closes too slowly

On the other end of the spectrum, a door closer that doesn’t fully close the door or allows it to slowly drift open has almost the opposite problem. Again, there are a few possible causes:

• The closer spring has become too weak. Springs wear out over time and can get too loose to pull the door closed effectively.
• Speed adjustment valves are set too slow. Turning the closing sweep and/or latching valves to a faster setting can help.
• Linkage is disconnected or broken. Damage to the closer’s arm or shoe can prevent normal operation.
• Hydraulic fluid is obstructed or leaking. Blockages or leaks in hydraulic lines and seals reduces the closer’s power.

Replacing an old, worn out spring with a new one is the best solution for a closer arm that moves too slowly due to spring fatigue. For hydraulic issues, inspect fluid levels and all hoses, cylinders and seals. Repair any leaks and bleed air bubbles out of the system. Fastening hardware should also be checked for damage.

3. The door closes from too far away

Ideally, a door closer should start acting when the door is in its final few degrees of swing so that it latches without slamming. But closers with improperly adjusted sweep valves may initiate closing too soon. As someone passes through the doorway, the door can start forcing itself closed prematurely.

• Sweep valve needs adjustment. Turning this valve to a slower setting delays when the closer engages during door swing.
• Incorrect closer size or strength. An overpowered closer installed on a light door can cause premature closing.

Adjusting sweep valves incrementally can help resolve this issue in many cases. If the closer type or strength seems inappropriate for the door, replacing it with a different model may be required. Consulting with the door manufacturer for sizing recommendations is wise.

4. The door does not fully close or latch

A door that doesn’t completely close into its frame and latch presents security risks, fire code issues and accessibility problems. The culprit is often:

• Latching speed needs adjustment. Latch speed controls the final few inches of closure when the door seals. This valve can be increased to provide a firm closure.
• Improper installation height. Closers should be mounted at the correct height specified by codes and the manufacturer to enable proper function.
• Floor or hinges are sagging. If the door or frame is sagging downward, the latch may not line up with the strike plate. Door repairs may be needed.

Start troubleshooting with adjusting latch valve speed. The door should close smoothly but with compression at the end to engage the latch firmly. If height and alignment seem off, the entire frame and door may need realignment to restore function.

5. Excessive opening force is required

Doors equipped with closers naturally require more force to open and restrain against slamming closed. But an excessively difficult door can present major accessibility issues. Possible reasons include:

• Closer spring is too tight. Fatigue or replacement with an overpowered spring makes the door harder to open.
• Hydraulic fluid is obstructed. Blockages in fluid lines and seals reduces closer efficiency.
• Incorrect closer type. Certain heavier duty closers are made for specialized applications.
• Arm is binding. Damage or misalignment of the closer arm as it moves can increase friction and resistance.

Try adjusting the closer’s spring tension and lubricating pivot points before assuming the entire closer needs replacement. The model also needs to match the door type—light, medium or heavy duty rated. Bosses and soffits that obstruct free arm movement can worsen binding issues.

6. The door drifts open slowly after unlatching

Fire and security codes require doors to latch and remain fully closed. So if a door is found drifting back open after closing and unlatching, the closer needs adjustment. Potential factors are:

• Weak closer spring. Springs naturally weaken over time eventually allowing doors to drift.
• Broken or damaged latch. Faulty latch components prevent the door from staying secure after closure.
• Alignment problems. Doors that are sagging or misaligned sometimes unlatch themselves with movement.

Try increasing closer spring tension in small increments to prevent slow drift. Severely weakened springs likely need full replacement. The latch and strike plate should align, meet and engage smoothly with the door fully closed. Fixing any door sag or misalignment is key.

7. Excessive closer noise when operating

Some mechanical noise is inevitable from the closing arm and pistons moving within a door closer body. But loud squeaking, scraping or knocking noises indicate a need for lubrication or repair. Specific issues include:

• Dry pivot joints. Closer arms operate on pins that need regular lubrication.
• Loose components. Fasteners in the mechanism may have become loose over time.
• Obstructed or binding arm. Bumping or scraping against the door frame or hardware as the arm operates.
• Damaged hydraulic pistons. Excessively worn cylinders or fluid leaks causes noisy function.

Lubricating closer arm pivot points is the easiest first step, using a silicone spray made for door closers. Tightening any loose screws or bolts may help resolve additional rattling noises between components. Check for any obstructions the arm may be hitting along its swing. If excessive piston wear and leakage is found, closer replacement is recommended.

8. Closer leaks hydraulic fluid

Door closer bodies contain hydraulic oil under pressure to control door swing speeds. Seal wear after years of use can allow this fluid to leak out, starving the mechanism of needed lubrication and power. Warning signs include:

• Visible dripping of fluid around the closer body
• Lower hydraulic pressure and slower door speeds
• Visible loss of fluid through the filler valve

Unfortunately, closers with chronic fluid leaks or seal issues typically need full replacement. The damaged internal seals cannot be repaired cost effectively. Prior to replacing the unit, inspect whether fluid level was simply low. Topping it off may resolve temporary issues. But recurring leakage means seals are faulty.

9. Closer is difficult or impossible to adjust

If attempting to make adjustments to door closer speed, force or backcheck valves has little effect on performance, it likely indicates:

• Broken valve. Internal closer valves can get damaged and cease functioning.
• Bad valve installation. Improperly installed replacements may not regulate properly.
• Blocked fluid lines. Obstructions related to seal damage prevents valves from working.

Again, closers with non-functioning internal valves usually require complete replacement. Installations should always be done according to manufacturer specifications to avoid issues. Hydraulic system obstructions can potentially be cleared by a qualified technician in some cases to restore adjustability.

10. Arm binds or doesn’t stay on shaft

The closer arm attaches over a pivot shaft on the body mechanism. If this connection gets compromised, the closer cannot operate. Binding or loose arms are caused by:

• Dry or damaged bushing. Nylon bushings keep the arm moving smoothly on the shaft.
• Loose set screw. The set screw clamps the arm in alignment on the shaft.
• Misaligned or bent arm. Forces on the arm can damage alignment and pivot function.

Lubricating and potentially replacing worn nylon bushings may help arms pivot easily. Tightening or realigning the set screw provides needed grip. Severely misaligned arms should be replaced. Light bending may be fixable by an experienced technician.

Conclusion

Door closers perform a vital role in commercial facilities but require periodic maintenance and adjustment to overcome common issues like slamming, leakage and slow speed. Getting to the root causes of closer problems relies on understanding components like hydraulic valves, closing springs and pivot joints. In many cases, remedies involve adjusting settings, replacing worn parts and lubricating hinges. But closers with chronic issues related to fluid leakage, arm binding or broken valves may simply need replacement. With some diligence about inspecting and maintaining closer hardware, building owners can keep doors working their best.