The door closer is often installed on the door leaf, which simplifies the opening process. This mechanism takes on a significant part of the effort that is applied by a person; with this principle of operation, there is no need to control the operation of the door leaf. It opens easily and smoothly returns to its original position. However, to close the door, the installation of a door closer is not a prerequisite. It is preferable to install it in places with high traffic, which helps to reduce wear on the door mechanism.
If you are interested in how closers work, you should know that the design is based on a spring, but auxiliary elements are also provided. It accumulates mechanical energy by contracting. When a person releases the sash, the spring straightens. In addition, the closers for the entrance doors work smoothly. This is possible thanks to the hydraulic system.
To ensure that the spring straightens smoothly, an oil shock absorber is used. The design includes a system of special valves, thanks to which the oil flows from chamber to chamber. In this way, the speed of the installed closer is regulated, and at the same time the speed of the web. Due to the sufficient level of viscosity, the silent operation of the mechanism is also ensured.
Internal construction
Device nodes:
- thrust - connects the door and the closer box, with the help of this element, the force that a person applies to the door is transmitted, trying to open it;
- rotary axis;
- a cylindrical piston connected to a spring - the assembly is driven by a gear, which, in turn, depends on the position of the rotary axis;
- oil valves containing a viscous liquid, through which the smooth movement of the structure is ensured;
- adjusting screw - allows you to set the compression power of the spring;
- screw responsible for limiting when opening the sash.
The principle of operation of a door closer is based on the interaction of two main components: a piston with a spring and a valve system. The remaining elements are auxiliary in the circuit and help ensure the correct adjustment of the mechanism. By means of screws, the operation of the door closer is controlled. Without these elements, the sash will close too slowly or, conversely, quickly, and will also create a noise effect. The device of the door closer, in particular the linkage and the body, may be different, on the basis of this, the design is divided into groups.
Types and types of closers
There are 3 main types of such structures:
- top;
- lower, or floor;
- hidden, or mortise.
In the first case, the mechanism is installed at the top of the sash. The second option involves the need to mount the product at the bottom of the door leaf, the drive mechanism is mounted on the floor. The hidden, or internal, mechanism remains invisible when looking at the sash. According to the intended purpose, the devices are divided into:
- to internal;
- on the street.
The first of the options is designed for indoor installation, which allows you to extend its service life. Street analogues are distinguished by a reinforced structure, they are better protected from external factors. In addition, there is a closer for sliding doors and mechanisms for swing doors. The first of the options is equipped with linear traction, while the canvas will move along the wall. The device for swing doors assumes in the design the presence of a thrust that can change position. If the canvas is opened, then the thrust will move in the direction from the bearing walls.
spring Separately, the closer mechanism for pendulum structures should be considered. In this case, it is not possible to use the classic version - for swing doors, because the leaf can move in the opposite direction: forward, backward, repeating the movement of the pendulum. So, you need to use an alternative solution. For this reason, in order to control the movements of the door, a concealed or floor version is provided.
This is a compact design that also works on the basis of hydraulic oil and a cylindrical piston. To regulate the speed of movement of the web, screws are provided that are located in the inner part of this fitting. Adjustment is carried out by means of a hex key. This control method is suitable for lightweight options. The mass of the sash should be in the range from 50 to 90 kg, which will allow you to install 2 such elements. There is a closer for a metal door and a wooden sash.
Street
Often it is required to improve the principle of operation of the web, located not inside the object, but outside, while the outer element must be distinguished by a more powerful design. Given that the entrance doors weigh much more than interior doors and are large in size, when choosing, you need to focus on the parameters of the sash. If this is not done, the device will not perform its function. Additionally, the operating conditions must be taken into account. So, for example, the closer to the entrance door must withstand temperatures in the range of -40 ... + 65 ° С.
floor standing
Such designs are similar in principle to the classic design. However, floor-type devices are somewhat different in design: the lever is attached to a spring and a piston, connected to a roller that performs translational movements, and drives the heart-shaped axis. It is expedient to use the mechanism of this type to control the mobility of pendular doors and leaves, door leaf of the "swing" type.
Install a door closer on a wooden door, products with glass inserts. Despite its small size, it is a versatile option that can withstand significant loads. Moreover, floor devices often perform the function of a rotary mechanism. Scope: public facilities, shopping centers, which have double-leaf doors with glass inserts without a box. It is preferable to mount such mechanisms on the entrance doors.
Hidden door
Devices of this type are represented by two varieties:
- loop closers;
- with sliding bar.
The first option has already been considered. These are elements that are used as a rotary mechanism and are responsible for opening / closing the sash. If door closers with a sliding rod are considered, then in this case we install the device body on the sash. A sliding rod will be connected to it on one side, and the other side will be attached to the groove, which is cut with a cutter in the door frame.
When planning to install sliding bar concealed door mechanisms, it is important to make sure that there is a gap between the door leaf and the frame that is thick enough for the pull to pass through. There are several nuances of such closer designs:
- small operational resource;
- the need for an accurate calculation of the installation site;
- the ability to withstand small closing and opening forces;
- installation options for concealed door closers are limited;
- narrow scope.
Closing force classification
Closers are divided into several types, different in class of effort, which correlates with the inertia of the door leaf. This parameter is influenced by the following characteristics: the weight of the leaf and the length of the arm, which corresponds to the width of the door. The force class is determined by the EN 1154 standard. Taking into account these parameters, the price category of the mechanisms is formed. Classification based on web width and weight, respectively:
- EN1: 750 mm, 20 kg;
- EN2: 850 mm, 40 kg;
- EN3: 950 mm, 60 kg;
- EN4: 1100 mm, 80 kg;
- EN5: 1250 mm, 100 kg;
- EN6: 1400 mm, 120 kg;
- EN7: 1600 mm, 160 kg.
The first options are designed for installation on light sashes. For this reason, they are often attached to interior canvases. Products of the latest classes are designed for heavy doors.
How to choose
If you need to purchase a door closer, first of all, it is recommended to determine the force class. To do this, you need to know the width of the sash, as well as its weight. Based on these parameters, a product is selected for adjusting the forces. Other Features:
- door design - for hinged, sliding doors, it is advisable to purchase various options for closers;
- features of the device of the mechanism: what parts it consists of (body, traction, etc.), how it works;
- method of mounting door closers: located in the upper, lower part or hidden in the door frame, hinges;
- the subtleties of the door design - in particular, they take into account the possibility of installing a hidden door closer, for which you need to choose a canvas with a sufficient gap between it and the box;
- adjusting the screws that determine the possibility of opening the sash and the intensity of the spring pressure;
- operating conditions, for example, for entrance doors, the recommended temperature regime is -40 ... + 65 ° С;
- additional functions - in particular, we are talking about the possibility of fixing the sash in the open position at a given angle and adjusting the mechanism for closing delay;
- product design, adjustable draft - now you can choose a door closer suitable for the interior;
- the number of opening / closing cycles or the working life of the mechanism;
- protection against vandalism - helps to prevent breakage.
DIY adjustment
If a door closer is selected, take into account the possibility of changing the position of the screws located on the body:
- the opening angle of the canvas is adjustable: from 90 to 180 °;
- the closing speed of the sash changes;
- smooth running is ensured when the set angle is reached.
The screws are turned clockwise or in the opposite direction. If you need to adjust a mechanical door closer, find fasteners on the body, turn the screw 1/4 turn to determine how the sash changes. Based on the changes, adjustments are made in the right direction.
Installation methods
In accordance with the type of construction, the closer mount is attached in different ways:
- on the surface of the door frame;
- in the floor;
- in the groove of the box;
- closers for sliding doors are hidden in hinges or are linear-type devices that are fixed on the door frame (they work on a different principle than analogues for swing doors).
When determining the installation method, it is necessary to take into account the features of the door frame, the thickness of the gap between the box and the leaf. For example, a closer on a plastic door is mounted on the surface of the door frame, connected to the canvas with a rod.
Possible installation options on the door leaf
The closer housing is located in several ways:
- on the canvas, then the thrust will be fixed on the door frame or in the groove, which is also cut out in the box;
- on the door frame, respectively, the free end of the rod is located on the sash.
If you plan to fix the end of the rod in the groove of the door frame, in this case there is only one option for the location of the closer body - on the canvas. The mechanism is always installed on the balcony door in the standard way: the closer body is on the sash, the rod is fixed on the surface of the door frame.
Do-it-yourself installation features
In accordance with the selected opening force of the web, the distance between the hinges and the mechanism body is determined. The closer for a light door must be characterized by the class EN1-EN4. A 1:1 scale template is used for installation. It must be glued to the door leaf with adhesive tape. After that, proceed to drilling holes for fasteners. The lever that performs the function of traction should be divided into 2 elements. After that, one part is installed on the door frame, and the second - on the canvas. Then the elements of the lever are connected and it is adjusted in length.
Repair
If there was an overload of the mechanism, which led to wear, some parts are changed. Spare parts for closers are selected according to its type. In case of oil leakage, the condition of the body is assessed, if the defect is small, the gap is closed with a sealant. With a strong deformation, the part is changed. When the metal of the rod breaks, a welding machine is used. Corrosion is eliminated by stripping. The bending of the rod is corrected manually, while restoring the shape of this element. In the same way, the door closer to the glass door, metal or wooden sash is repaired.
A door closer is a special mechanism designed to automatically close operational, fire-prevention, entrance and access control-equipped structures. Often its parts and connections wear out, fail. At the same time, the doors do not close, and they can also move too slowly or, conversely, quickly, with a knock or pop. When the breakdowns are small, specialists adjust the parameters of the device; in case of complex defects, they repair the door closer.
Depending on the type, type of model of the door mechanism, its defect and breakdowns, repairs are carried out either independently, but at the same time they find out the cause of the malfunction, or call the master who installed the mechanism.
Correct, efficient, trouble-free operation, which is a guarantee of the comfort and safety of people, is a property that shows what a door closer should be like. Competent initial installation, adjustment of the parameters of the device, compliance with all operational requirements affect the quality of its work.
Door device malfunctions can be as follows:
- damage or breakage of the rod;
- the appearance of cracks in the elements of the mechanism;
- bending, breaking of the lever;
- sticking of the linkage;
- wear of seals;
- breakage of fasteners.
These defects are caused by the following factors:
- incorrect operation of the mechanism;
- external influences on the door block (shocks, strong wind);
- laying a stone or foreign object to fix the door in the open position.
Damage is corrected by repairing the door closer with your own hands. If the defect cannot be eliminated, then the mechanism is bought.
Door closer device
This device consists of the following mechanisms and parts:
- spring;
- cast aluminum body;
- precision piston;
- control valves;
- toothed gears;
- needle bearing;
- rubber seals;
- fasteners.
The mechanism of the closer is arranged as follows.
The main element of the design is a spring mechanism, which, when compressed, accumulates the energy necessary to close the doors. The compression process occurs by transferring the force of the linkage to the spring. Toothed gears and racks drive the piston, while oil enters the free part of the housing through internal channels. Adjusting the fluid flow rate affects the closing speed.
If the oil does not enter the released body of the device, it leaks due to depressurization, then the door mechanism does not work. The problem can be solved with a repair.
Fluid leakage
Oil leakage occurs due to large fluctuations in ambient temperature. Often the leak appears in the cold season. The density of the oily liquid directly depends on temperature changes.
The second reason for the appearance of oil leakage is the depressurization of the box, which occurs when it is damaged. If the defect is not strong, it is necessary to eliminate it with a simple sealant. If the crack is large or the oil has leaked out in full, the sealant elimination methods will not give a positive result, so the closer is changed.
In cases of weak liquid filling at the factory, it is added to the door device. In this case, synthetic motor oil or shock absorber fluid is chosen. Oil filling is carried out through control valves.
Linkage damage
In case of malfunctions in the operation of the mechanism, special attention is paid to the rod, its condition and damage are checked. At the slightest malfunction, repairs are carried out.
The problem can be fixed by hand. Before repairing a damaged rod, you should read the instructions for the repair and installation of the door closer and act in accordance with it.
Causes of breakdowns
High-quality repair of the door closer is possible only with the correct identification of the causes of defects and damage.
Causes of breakdowns can be:
- adverse, cold weather conditions;
- abrupt opening and closing of doors;
- blocking the movement of the door leaf;
- closer overload.
Factors determining whether a repair is possible
Manufacturers are not interested in affordable repair of door devices. Most of them have an all-alloy body. For such models, repair work is difficult. Damage in the form of worn oil seals or oil leakage cannot be repaired. Therefore, the door closer must be dismantled and replaced.
The main importance in the reliable and efficient operation of the mechanism is the correct adjustment of the door device immediately after its installation.
Troubleshooting
Do-it-yourself door closer repair is easy to do.
In case of defects, the rods carry out the following actions:
- In the presence of rust, anti-corrosion cleaning is done and treated with a special protective lubricant.
- When a small crack or fracture occurs, the welding method is used, after which the welds are ground to a smooth state without slag inclusions, sagging, formations.
- Curvature or bends are carefully aligned with a hammer so that under the action of force the lever does not burst.
In case of violations of the speed of movement of the doors, the device is adjusted.
How to repair
To repair breakdowns in the closer device, the following tools are needed:
- screwdriver;
- keys;
- pliers;
- screwdriver.
If complex defects are identified, a hammer and a welding machine are required to correct them.
The repair procedure is as follows:
- Carefully inspect the body of the closer. There must be no leakage in the housing filled with oil.
- Check the security of the fixing screws. If the part is in a tight or loose state, tighten it to the required level.
- Inspect the door block, the place of attachment and contact with the box for cracks, dents, which lead to a distortion of the structure.
- Check the operation of the closer levers.
- Adjust the speed of closing and opening doors, closing, maximum opening angle.
- Repair the part if damage is found.
- After the procedure, install the closer in place.
If the defect cannot be corrected independently, this situation is solved by replacing the door closer.
Adjustment
Adjustment is a mandatory measure not only during the operation of the mechanism, but also for prevention. The procedure is performed at least 2 times a year, with seasonal temperature fluctuations this is done more often.
The adjustment of the device consists in adjusting the closing speed of the door block with the help of adjusting screws, pressing it against the box, and smooth slowing down when the doors are completely closed.
Repair of door closers is a simple technological process, the implementation of which is most often within the power of even a novice master.
Sections of the article:
In the relatively recent past, to ensure independent tight closing of the front door or gate, such simple mechanisms as a spring, a counterweight with a cable and a system of blocks, rubber bands or their analogues from rubber tires were used. Today, in order for the door to close itself tightly, closers of various sizes, colors and shapes are used. What closers for entrance doors are presented on the shelves in specialized departments of stores, what you should pay attention to when buying and how to install them - read on.
Types of closers
The closer is considered to be a mechanical device that is able to accumulate potential energy when the door leaf is opened. The consumption of the accumulated energy then goes to a tight, almost silent closing of the door. The basis of the mechanism, which is responsible for its main function, is a powerful spring inside the case, the transfer of force to which and back occurs in two scenarios:
Closers with a hydraulic circuit inside, transmitting forces through the rack, work in such a way that when the door leaf is opened, the gear on the lever axle turns and transmits translational motion through the rack to the piston, which then causes the spring to compress. After the opening is completed, the compressed spring tends to return to its original relaxed state, pushing the piston in the opposite direction. The movement of the piston provokes the rotation of the gear, which returns the force to the lever axis of the closer, after which the door smoothly and tightly enters the box. The smooth operation of the closer is carried out due to the hydraulic system in the form of cavities and channels throughout the entire body of the mechanism, through which oil flows.
Closers with cam mechanism. Inside the device, on the lever axis, there is a cam in the form of a complex eccentric resembling a core. Rollers support the cam mechanism on both sides. Opening the door leaf provokes compression of the spring by the protruding part of the cam. The desire of the spring to take its original position leads to the turning of the cam in the opposite direction and the smooth closing of the door. A similar principle of operation is used when placing hidden mechanisms or in closers with a channel arrangement of thrust.
Advantages and disadvantages of installing closers
When installing a door closer on the front door, you will receive the following benefits:
- Increase the life of the door leaf and fittings, as smooth slamming protects the door from damage by impacts when opening / closing and minimizes the load on the fittings;
- The tight entry of the door leaf into the frame protects the room from cold wind, drafts and extraneous noise from outside;
- The mechanized device does not require an electrical connection;
- The adjusted closing speed allows you to make the operation of the door safe, which is important for families with small children or elderly members who may enter the room for a long time or not hold the sash when opening;
- The disadvantages include possible difficulties in installing and adjusting the closer, as well as the significant cost of high-quality products equipped with additional functions.
Place of installation of the door closer
The most common are overhead door closers, which are installed in the upper part on the inside or outside of the leaf, depending on the type of opening. Less common are mortise products for entrance doors that are hidden inside the floor, door leaf or frame. Such mechanisms are used when it is impossible to install in the standard position or for aesthetic reasons, for example, on glass door leaves.
Overhead closing mechanisms according to design features are divided into two types:
Closers equipped with a lever arm of two knees. The advantages are ease of installation, reliability of the mechanism, a sufficiently high level of force transfer, the possibility of several control options. A significant drawback is the lever protruding beyond the level of the facade perpendicular to the body of the closer, the probability of which to be damaged from the actions of violators is quite high. In addition, the linkage requires effort when opening the door leaf, which is not very convenient for children and people of age.
Closers equipped with a closed sliding channel inside the box, along which the free edge of the hinge with a roller at the end moves. The advantages are high decorative qualities due to the absence of protruding parts, the minimum likelihood of vandalism damage, the possibility of additionally equipping the mechanism with an opening limiter inside the channel, installation in doors close to the wall. Disadvantages: the minimum number of adjustments and additional equipment, higher cost compared to lever ones.
Closer classification
In accordance with the global standardization EN1154, door closers are divided into seven classes EN1-EN7, depending on the closing force that they are able to create. To understand which closer is suitable for a particular door, you need to know the width and weight of the door leaf. If two mandatory parameters do not correspond to one class, a device of a higher classification is selected. For example, the width of the door leaf in mm corresponds to EN3 class, and the weight is EN5, it is recommended to install a class 5 door closer, as a weaker force of class 3 will not cope with the load.
Self-closing mechanisms are on sale, which belong both to one class (the marking indicates one digital value, for example, EN1), and to several (the numerical value is indicated in the marking through a hyphen, for example, EN1-3). The second option is more practical and convenient, since it is possible to adjust the closing speed of the sash depending on weather conditions, but compared to mechanisms of the same class, such devices are much more expensive.
What to look for when buying
How to choose a closer for the front door? First of all, you need to pay attention to a number of important indicators:
- Closing speed does not have a clear digital indicator and is selected by visual observation. For private houses, it is recommended to purchase a door closer with a minimum speed;
- The slamming speed is required for door panels equipped with latch locking mechanisms;
- Opening brake. This indicator is used for installation on doors leading to rooms with high traffic of people, it allows you to apply less effort when opening the door leaf;
- Closing braking is relevant for use in retail premises, as it allows the buyer to calmly leave the hall with packages. A similar indicator will not be superfluous for families with children and the elderly who have difficulty passing the doorway. A significant drawback of the device is irrational use in the cold season, since a long-term open opening will quickly cool the room;
- The presence of a sash latch allows you to fix the door in the open position, which is convenient for long-term ventilation in the summer or the removal of furniture from the house.
It is also worth considering the resistance of the mechanism to temperature extremes: in regions with cold winters, it is recommended to give preference to frost-resistant models that work properly down to a temperature of -40C.
Installation
To install the closer, you will need a minimum set of tools: a drill with a drill corresponding to the size of the fastener, a screwdriver, a simple pencil and a tape measure or ruler. Most manufacturers equip the mechanism with instructions with templates that clearly show how to install the closer. Schematic representations of the components of the door closer in full size on the template and mounting holes for each element greatly facilitate the marking and further installation of the mechanism on the front door. The template is printed on both sides of the sheet with the type of opening the door towards itself or from itself.
Two red perpendicular lines on the template allow you to set it correctly. The vertical red line is combined in the axial line of the door hinges, the horizontal one - with the upper border of the leaf. It is recommended to mark the center line of the loops with a simple pencil.
Further, with the help of a drill through the template, mounting holes corresponding to the selected class are marked. Complete with a closer, there are usually two types of hardware: for metal-plastic or wooden surfaces. Depending on the material of the door leaf, a drill bit for a drill is also selected, with which recesses for fasteners marked according to the template are drilled. After that, the installation of a self-closing mechanism begins.
Please note that the door closer is installed disassembled, that is, the levers and the housing are separately. When buying an assembled mechanism, it is strongly recommended to disassemble it before installation: first, the fixing washer is unscrewed, then the screw connecting the levers and the housing is removed.
The installation of a door closer that opens in a position towards itself begins with fixing the body frame to the door leaf with self-tapping screws, into which the rod is then mounted. In the lower body part there is a special recess into which a lever is inserted, which is tightened with a screw. This is followed by a fairly simple connection of the lever and the rod by pressing down with your fingers until a slight click is formed. The connection difference lies in the location of the rod on the front door.
If elementary soft closing is required, the rod is slightly reduced in length and installed perpendicular to the door. If there is a latching mechanism in the sash, solidarity reinforcement is required to overcome its resistance. In this case, the rod is extended and fixed in a position perpendicular to the door.
Adjustment
After installing the door closer, it remains to adjust the speed of closing the door. Depending on the model, closers differ in design and location of the screw for adjusting the speed. Detailed information is usually contained in the passport or product installation instructions. But the principle of operation of regulation in various models of the door closer is similar:
- Turning the screw clockwise increases the speed of closing the door;
- Turning the screw counterclockwise slows down the closing speed.
When adjusting, it is not recommended to turn the screw several turns at once, since there is a high probability of an imbalance in the closer, which is quite difficult to adjust back. In addition, a few sharp turns of the adjusting screw can cause damage to the mechanism, such as oil leaking from the inside. Most often, a ¼ turn is enough to achieve the required speed.
In order for the door closer to perform its function well for many years, it is strongly not recommended to press the door or slow it down with foreign objects when closing, as this can damage the internal parts of the mechanism. In addition, it is recommended to change the lubricant in the hinge at least once every 2 years when installing door closers for indoor doors and annually when installing the mechanism from the outdoor part of the door. It is recommended to adjust the outdoor closer once every six months to reduce the effects of temperature changes.
An open door is the cause of drafts and heat loss in the room, so it is extremely important to take care of its timely closing. If you can put a simple spring on a swinging canvas, then this option is not suitable for coupe-type structures. The way out of the situation can be a closer for a sliding door, which will ensure smooth closing of the sash and allow you to maintain a comfortable microclimate of the interior space.
How a sliding door closer works
Closers for compartment doors are mechanical devices that prevent a sharp collision of door leaves. Structurally, the product is a metal case, which houses the damper, lever and piston system. On its outer surface there is a special adapter that has an auxiliary effect on the operation of the closer.
When the sash is closed, the adapter presses on the lever, which causes the damper to actuate. As a result, the door slows down, and when the damper reaches its end position, the leaf stops completely. The damping of the sliding door closer contributes to the repayment of the applied force, so the leaf closes without a characteristic knock and force impact.
Installation of a sliding door closer can be carried out with an argument both in one direction and in both directions. As a rule, devices are designed for door structures weighing 60–100 kg, made of laminated panels, PVC, veneer, glass, aluminum profiles, solid wood. Most often they are mounted in rooms with high traffic, where the constant opening and closing of the leaf leads to a rapid loss of performance of the entire door system.
Types of closers
The range of closers for compartment doors is not as wide as for conventional swing systems, but it is quite enough to choose exactly the option that suits best. Devices differ in the installation method, mechanism design, location on the door, as well as in design, color and price category.
According to the installation method
Depending on the installation method, there are two types of sliding door closers:
- Overhead - mounted on the outer surface of the door leaf, while most of their components are open to access.
- Built-in - installed in the door profile, door frame or in the floor. In most cases, such products require the creation of a cutout in the structure using a cutter, where the body with the mechanism is inserted.
By location
Different types of closers for compartment doors can be located in different places of the door system. Based on where the products are mounted, they are divided into two categories:
- Upper - for placement at the top of the door structure.
- Lower - mounted at the bottom of the door.
According to the principle of work
The functioning of all devices is based on a spring structure, however, the principle of their operation may vary slightly depending on the structural features of the mechanism. In this regard, the following sliding door closers are distinguished:
- On a standard sliding rod - the lever moves simultaneously with the sash along a special groove.
- "Knee" - the lever has a folding structure and consists of two axes that bend like a knee when the sash turns.
- On the cam - the design has a cam, which, when rotated, exerts pressure on the spring.
- Toothed - products are equipped with a rack and pinion mechanism acting on a spring.
Consumers are offered a wide range of additional devices that allow for the full operation and smooth running of the sliding door. In particular, the catalog of the TBM-Market online store presents high-quality universal rollers with a closer, designed to move the web in two directions.
Benefits of using closers
The benefits of installing a sliding door closer are undeniable. The device contributes to the soft silent operation of the blade and provides many advantages in use:
- Protects the door from shock when closing. Strong pops often lead to mechanical damage to the canvas and disrupt the comfort of living. If you put such a device, then you don’t have to worry that due to the high application of force, the door will prematurely fail or interfere with the peace of neighbors and households.
- Ensures the safety of the door leaf during operation. If the mechanism is correctly adjusted, the door closes softly and smoothly, so that no one pinches their fingers or clothes.
- Reduces heat loss in the room. The automatic closing of the sash helps to retain heat in the cold season and prevents the penetration of drafts. In the process of operation, closers for compartment doors tightly press the door leaves to the frame, providing good sealing of the room.
- Allows you to adjust the speed of the movement of the sash. Many models have auxiliary functions such as adjustable speed and selective closing force, which allows you to adjust their operation depending on the season. In particular, in winter they will close faster, minimizing potential heat loss.
Criterias of choice
When planning the purchase of a sliding door closer, it is advisable to pay attention to its technical characteristics, which can be found in the attached instructions. Products with incorrectly selected parameters can lead to premature wear of door fittings and significantly reduce the functionality of the leaf, therefore, when choosing a device, it is recommended to consider the following criteria:
- The type of traction mechanism installed in the housing - as mentioned above, modern manufacturers introduce closers with several types of mechanisms to the market, which largely determines the place of their installation. In particular, devices with standard traction are mounted directly on the canvas, and devices called "knee" are mounted on the door frame.
- Door dimensions - the wider and more massive the door leaf, the more powerful the door closer should be chosen for compartment doors.
- Temperature conditions - many products function smoothly in the range of -40 ... + 70 ° C, but some models lose their technical properties at low temperatures. For this reason, when buying a mechanism for unheated premises, it is necessary to take into account the conditions of its operation.
- Installation method - for glass doors it is advisable to buy devices with a floor mounting method, for all others, both floor and top are suitable.
- Design - To ensure that sliding door closers fit perfectly into the overall interior design, it is best to give preference to kits that match the color palette of the door structure.
- Maintainability - in case of failure of the structure, it should be easily replaced with a new one. In the catalog of the company "TBM-Market" you can find universal sets of rollers with a closer, suitable for all types of compartments. Our qualified staff will help with the purchase and arrange its delivery in Moscow and the region.
Door closer installation
The usual waybill is easier to install, while the hidden one requires professional skills, dexterity and special tools. In general, for the installation of any product, it is necessary to prepare a tape measure, level, drill and screwdriver. Before proceeding with the installation, you should mark the holes for the fasteners, which are determined from the lower height of the doorway. Further installation involves the following steps:
- In the marked places, holes are drilled with a drill (if a hidden door closer is installed, then cuts are made under the body).
- Before installing the door closer for compartment doors, pull its carriage (bring it to the erected state).
- Using a screwdriver, screw the body of the product to the end of the blade.
- Similarly, a hook is attached to the upper guide.
- Perform device adjustments. There are two screws on the body that are responsible for the speed and force of closing the sash. They are carefully rotated until the required operating parameters of the door are reached.
If the mechanism is installed correctly, the sliding door closer will last a long time and reliably protect the premises from drafts and extraneous noise. Its use will ensure smooth closing of the canvas and will make the operation of the compartment more comfortable and easier.
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Doors meet us in any institution, whether it is an entrance to an entrance, an apartment, a room, administrative buildings or technical premises. Sometimes they give in to us easily and silently, quickly open and close, then we seem to not notice them, without being distracted by the need for additional efforts. But in case of any malfunction, the discomfort of opening the door becomes very noticeable and only adjusting the door closer can help. With your own hands, you can not only adjust, but also install the mounting mechanism, so feel free to take on this procedure.
The door closer is adjusted manually, without the use of additional equipment. You may need, perhaps, a screwdriver. Most often, the screws that secure the device to the plane and frame require a straight-slotted screwdriver.
Features of the design of the device and the progress of the adjustment
Adjustment of the door closer is impossible without a clear understanding of the principle of operation of the mechanism. A closer is a spring combined with rollers and pistons, or with a gear mounted on a rail. When the door opens or closes, the mechanism comes into action, collecting or, conversely, opening the spring. In this case, the vacant cavity is filled with oil. The combination of hydraulics and mechanics gives a reliable and simple device that does not require additional care, except for careful handling.
Preparatory stage
If your door slams shut with a deafening thud from a draft, pinches children's fingers as soon as they weaken the force holding the door, it is difficult to open, as if stuck in one of the stages, it's time to adjust the door closer. 
Like any job, adjusting the door closer begins with the preparation of the necessary materials. You will need: a screwdriver, original instructions, photo examples of repairing and adjusting the device, a chair that you can stand on if your height does not allow you to comfortably reach the top mount.
First you need to open the box. This is a rectangular box. Removing the top cover is usually not difficult, it is fixed by the snap-in principle. The principle of the cabinet construction is the same in any kind of door closer, so even if your system looks like an impregnable metal plate, most likely there are invisible seams somewhere, and it's all about skillful design.
How to adjust the door closer, tell the principle of its operation.
Perhaps your device only has two valves. In this case, their adjustment will be enough. Tighter or looser, it's up to you. If the door is difficult to give in, you need to loosen the fixation, because it is inconvenient, the door can be difficult to give in to children, press a pet, create an additional load when bringing in and taking out goods. If the door is loose and closes and opens easily and quickly, there is a risk of getting hit by the door.
Door closer device. Adjustment of door closers should alternate with testing the result. To do this, the door will need to be opened wide and closed, at the beginning with some effort, and then - releasing. The ideal speed will be a slow, even closing, at the last stage of which the latch quickly slams shut. If we are talking about the entrance door, for security reasons, you can increase the closing speed so that no one can enter the house by following the tenant.
Working with screws
With a rough idea of what result you want to achieve, you are ready to learn how to adjust the door closer. On the instructions supplied by the manufacturer, two screws are usually indicated, which are responsible for the speed of closing the door. 
They are numbered 1 and 2, so you can easily identify them on the door closer. They can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise. It is important to remember that turning more than two turns of any of the screws can lead to breakage. The first such screw (or valve) is responsible for opening the door from 15 to 180 degrees, the second acts as a closer, that is, it regulates the speed of the door in the range from 0 to 15 degrees and ensures reliable closing with a latch or combination lock. The rotation of each of these nuts-screws is reflected in the properties of the door.
In some models of door closer adjustment, there may be more filigree. This happens if the closer setting allows the door to delimit the opening angles more carefully.
Additional functions
The wind brake, referred to as BC (Back check), prevents the door from hitting when turning 180 degrees. He is responsible for adjusting the door closer at the stage from 70 to 180 degrees, slowing down the closing speed.
The delayed closing function DA (Delay action) prevents the strong pressure of the door in the area from 180 to 70 degrees, allowing a person to calmly pass through the door after opening it without making additional efforts.
Additional functions. The Hold Open function allows you to lock the door in the open position. To do this, it will only be necessary to open it wide open. To close the door, you will only need to forcefully pull it towards you.
For the first two functions, there are separate screws that look like the main ones. You can set up the advanced door closer with the same screwdriver that is used for a conventional device.
Most often, the closing retarder is located next to the two main valves, and the aircraft separately, on the same plane.
Before adjusting the door closer, you can watch a video, but even a child can handle this work. Turning clockwise increases the closing speed, counterclockwise decreases it. This rule applies to all screws available on the door closer, both in the "sliding" and in the "lever" system. 
The adjusted position of all valves will lead to a perfect operation of the door. The reliability that the door closer will have can be guaranteed by adjustment for several months in advance. The subtlety is that in winter and summer there are different temperature conditions of operation, and the oil inside the mechanism can affect the speed of spring compression in different ways. In view of this, it is better to tighten the screws at least twice a year, after winter and after summer. If the characteristics of closing the door change after the winter, you should not be upset, this is normal, the main thing is to return the actual properties of the door to the proper level in time.
How to adjust the door closer is described in detail in the video presented in our article. It describes the process of work in stages, thanks to which even a person who is far from construction and crafts will be able to correct such details in his home.
Ease of action
There are a number of useful tips on how to save the mechanism and not adjust the door closer in the future. First of all, you do not need to load the mechanism - do not let children ride on the door, do not hang heavy objects on it. Secondly, do not press hard on it when opening it. Thirdly, choose a door closer that matches the parameters of your door.
Our article, as well as photo and video materials, can suggest how to adjust the door closer with your own hands. Strength is not needed here, skill is enough, so both a woman and a teenager can cope with such work. If you don't know how to adjust your or public front door closer, don't be discouraged, just imagine if you would like to close faster from the widest position, or just slam at the palm of your hand. In a couple of seconds, you can understand how to increase the resistance of the door and how to weaken it. Any door closer is easily adjustable and can only be broken if the tension force exceeds its technical capabilities. In this case, you will see an oil leak, and this will mean that the device will have to be changed. After completing the work, do not forget to replace the cover and check the operation of the door again.
What to do if nothing works?
It happens that the door closer is adjusted with good informational preparation, the instruction is at hand, but still the result cannot be achieved.
The range of modern closers is very diverse. In this case, the point is the wrong choice of this part, especially for heavy metal entrance doors. Most likely, the European standard index does not match the weight or width of the door, the mounting bracket is incorrectly attached, or the holes for the self-tapping screws that hold the closer are displaced.
In this case, the question of how to adjust the door closer is not correct, since you need to change the doors of the intercom, or, more likely, remove the door closer and insert a new, more powerful one. You should also pay attention to the lever, it should be perpendicular to the plane of the door. If it is misaligned, one of the closer links may need to be moved. When purchasing door closers, be aware that adjustment is easy, especially if the instructions are not lost.