Automatic door closers are devices that automatically close a door after it has been opened. They are commonly used in commercial and public buildings, such as offices, hotels, schools, hospitals, and airports. Automatic door closers are important for safety, security, and energy efficiency reasons. They can prevent fire and smoke from spreading, deter unauthorized access, and reduce heat loss or gain. So, it is essential for one to know how to repair automatic door closers. There are different types of automatic door closers, such as hydraulic, pneumatic, or electromagnetic. Hydraulic door closers use fluid pressure to control the closing speed and force.
Pneumatic door closers use air pressure to achieve the same effect. Electromagnetic door closers use magnets to hold the door open until a signal is received to release it. In this article, we will discuss, how you can repair automatic door closers, the benefits of regular maintenance for automatic door closers, the steps for preventive measures, and the tips for troubleshooting common problems. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your automatic door closers work properly and last longer.
Types of Automatic Door Closers
Devices that close a door automatically after someone opens it or a sensor triggers it are called automatic door closers. Commercial and public buildings, such as offices, schools, hospitals, and airports, often use them to ensure security, safety, and energy efficiency. Before explaining the important steps to repair automatic door closers, it is important to have knowledge about it. There are different types of automatic door closers, each with its features and advantages. Some examples of the most frequent ones are given below:
Overhead Door Closers
Overhead door closers are the most popular and widely used type of automatic door closers. A spring-loaded box and one or two arms make up them, and they are on the top of the door or the door frame. The closing force and speed of the door can be controlled by adjusting the spring tension and the speed valves. Overhead door closers are suitable for doors that experience high levels of traffic and need to close securely and reliably. Installing and maintaining them is also simple. There are three main subtypes of overhead door closers:
Regular arm:
This is the most power-efficient subtype, as it provides the maximum leverage for the spring. The closer is mounted on the pull side of the door, and the arm projects perpendicularly from the door when it is closed.
Parallel arm:
This subtype looks the best, because the arm is hidden under the door when it is shut. The door and the arm are in line, and the closer is on the side that pushes the door.
Top jamb:
This is the most suitable subtype for doors with narrow top rails, such as glass or aluminium doors. The closer is mounted on the face of the door frame, and the arm projects perpendicularly from the door when it is closed.
Concealed Door Closers
Concealed door closers are hidden inside the door or the door frame, making them invisible when the door is closed. They offer a sleek and elegant look to the door, as well as reducing the risk of vandalism or tampering. Concealed door closers are usually hydraulic, meaning they use fluid pressure to control the closing action of the door. They are ideal for interior doors that need to blend in with the décor and have a smooth and quiet operation. There are two main subtypes of concealed door closers:
Mortise:
This subtype is installed in a cavity cut into the edge of the door, and it connects to the door frame with a single arm. Mortise door closers are very durable and can handle heavy doors and frequent use.
Transom:
This subtype is installed in a cavity cut into the top of the door frame, and it connects to the door with a pivot. Transom door closers are very discreet and can handle light to medium doors and moderate use.
Surface-Mounted Door Closers
Surface-mounted door closers are attached to the surface of the door or the door frame, making them visible but easy to install and adjust. They are similar to overhead door closers, but they have a smaller and simpler design. They are also cheaper and more versatile than other types of automatic door closers, as they can fit different door sizes, weights, and styles. Surface-mounted door closers are suitable for residential and light commercial applications, such as apartments, hotels, and shops. There are two main subtypes of surface-mounted door closers:
Slide-track:
This subtype has a sliding arm that moves along a track mounted on the door or the door frame. Slide-track door closers are compact and unobtrusive, and they offer a smooth and controlled closing action.
Cam-action:
This subtype has a curved arm that rotates around a camp mounted on the door or the door frame. Cam-action door closers are efficient and powerful, and they offer a low opening resistance and a high closing force.
Floor-Spring Door Closers
Installers cut a cavity into the floor and place floor-spring door closers there, hiding and securing them. A spindle and a pivot connect them to the door, and they enable the door to open both ways. Glass doors and heavy doors, such as fire doors and entrance doors, often use floor-spring door closers. They are also resistant to weather and corrosion, making them suitable for outdoor applications. There are two main subtypes of floor-spring door closers:
Single action:
This subtype allows the door to swing in one direction only, either inward or outward. Single-action floor-spring door closers are simple and reliable, and they can be used for left-handed or right-handed doors.
Double action:
This subtype allows the door to swing in both directions, inward and outward. Double-action floor-spring door closers are flexible and convenient, and they can be used for doors that need to provide access from both sides.
Benefits of Regular Maintenance for Automatic Door Closers
According to a study by the Door and Hardware Institute, regular maintenance can increase the lifespan of automatic door closers by up to 50%. The study also found that poorly maintained door closers can cause damage to the door, frame, and hardware, resulting in higher repair costs and lower security. Keeping your automatic door closers in good condition has many advantages. Regular maintenance offers some advantages, such as:
- By lubricating, adjusting, and cleaning your door closers regularly, you can prevent wear and tear and prolong their functionality.
- By detecting and fixing minor issues before they become major problems, you can save money on expensive repairs or replacements.
- By maintaining the correct closing speed, force, and alignment of your door closers, you can ensure that they operate smoothly and safely.
Another source that supports the benefits of regular maintenance is this video by the International Door Association. The video demonstrates how to inspect, adjust, and lubricate different types of automatic door closers and explains why these tasks are important for their performance and durability.
Steps for Preventive Measures for Automatic Door Closers
To avoid or minimize the need for repairs, you should perform some preventive measures for your automatic door closers. This table represents some essential steps to follow:
| Steps | Description |
| 1. Check the door alignment and hinges | Make sure the door is swinging freely and properly, and the hinges are in good condition. If the door is out of square with the frame, it could cause the closer to malfunction or wear out faster. |
| 2. Adjust the closing and latch speed | Use the controls on the door closer to regulate how quickly the door closes and latches. This can prevent abrupt slamming, which could damage the door or injure the users. |
| 3. Lubricate the moving parts | Apply lubricant to the arm, pinion, and piston of the door closer to reduce friction and noise. This can also extend the life of the door closer and ensure smooth operation. |
| 4. Weather strip and seal the door | Install weather stripping and seals around the door to prevent air leakage and drafts. This can improve the energy efficiency of the building and reduce the strain on the door closer. |
| 5. Conduct regular maintenance and inspections | Hire a certified professional to perform routine checks and repairs on the door closer and other components of the entrance ecosystem. This can ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations and identify any potential issues before they become serious. |
Lubrication:
You should lubricate your door closers at least once a year, or more often if they are exposed to harsh weather or heavy usage. Lubrication can prevent friction, corrosion, and noise, and improve the closing speed and force. You should use the recommended lubricant for your type of door closer, and apply it to the hinges, pivots, arm, and cylinder.
Alignment:
You should check the alignment of your door closers regularly and adjust them if they are out of place. Alignment can affect the closing speed, force, and angle of your door closers and prevent damage to the door, frame, and hardware. You should use a level and a ruler to measure the alignment of your door closers and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust them.
Adjustment:
You should adjust the closing speed and force of your door closers according to your needs and preferences. Adjustment can ensure that your door closers close smoothly and securely, and prevent slamming, bouncing, or sticking. You should use a screwdriver or a wrench to adjust the valves or screws on your door closers and test them until you achieve the desired result.
Weather sealing:
You should weather-seal your door closers to protect them from moisture, dust, and temperature changes. Weather sealing can prevent rust, leakage, and malfunction, and improve the energy efficiency of your door closers. You should use the appropriate weather stripping, caulking, or gasket for your type of door closer, and apply it to the gaps and cracks around the door and frame.
To perform these steps, you will need some tools and materials, such as lubricant, level, ruler, screwdriver, wrench, weather stripping, caulking, or gasket. You should also follow the safety precautions and wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing.
Tips for Troubleshooting Common Problems with Automatic Door Closers
Despite your best efforts, you may encounter some common problems with your automatic door closers. Here are some tips that you can follow when you are going to repair automatic door closers. These include:
Squeaking:
This is a sign that your door closers need lubrication, or that there is dirt or debris in the hinges, pivots, arm, or cylinder. To fix this problem, you should clean and lubricate your door closers and check for any loose or damaged parts.
Slamming:
This is a sign that your door closers are closing too fast or too hard, or that there is air or fluid leakage in the cylinder. To fix this problem, you should adjust the closing speed and force of your door closers. One should check for any leaks or cracks in the cylinder or seals.
Sticking:
This is a sign that your door closers are closing too slowly or too soft, or that there is friction or obstruction in the hinges, pivots, arm, or cylinder. To fix this problem, you should adjust the closing speed and force of your door closers and check for any dirt, debris, or damage in the hinges, pivots, arm, or cylinder.
Leaking:
This is a sign that your door closers have a broken or worn seal, or that there is too much pressure or temperature in the cylinder. To fix this problem, you should replace the seal, and check the pressure and temperature of the cylinder.
To diagnose these problems, you should observe the behaviour and appearance of your door closers. Additionally, one should listen for any unusual sounds or smells. You should also consult the manual or the label of your door closers and look for any error codes or indicators. Some of the warnings or cautions that you should heed are:
Seek professional help:
If you are not confident or experienced in maintaining or repairing your door closers, or if the problem is beyond your ability or knowledge. You can contact a qualified door closer technician patriot locksmith a reputable door closer company for assistance. Because the professionals are familiar with these problems and can suggest a perfect solution to repair automatic door closers.
Replace the door closer:
If it is too old, damaged, or incompatible with your door, frame, or hardware. You can choose a new door closer that suits your needs and preferences and meets the standards and regulations of your building and location.
Avoid doing:
Anything that could void the warranty or violate the code of your door closers, such as using the wrong lubricant, tools, or parts, or modifying the settings or features of your door closers.
Video Guidance:
Here is a video guidance for you to make it easy to repair automatic door closers:
Conclusion
In conclusion, automatic door closers are devices that automatically close a door after it has been opened. They are important for safety, security, and energy efficiency reasons. There are different types of automatic door closers, such as hydraulic, pneumatic, or electromagnetic. To maintain and repair your automatic door closers, you should perform some preventive measures, such as lubrication, alignment, adjustment, and weather sealing. You should also troubleshoot some common problems, such as squeaking, slamming, sticking, or leaking. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your automatic door closers work properly and last longer.
If you want to learn more about automatic door closers, you can read this article. Here we provide more information and tips on how to choose, install, and use automatic door closers. If you need any help with your automatic door closer repair, you can contact patriot locksmith today for a free quote. They are a professional and reliable door closer company with an experienced team that can handle any type of door closer issue. They have the experience, skills, and equipment to provide you with the best service and results.