A door closer is a mechanical or hydraulic device that pulls a door shut after someone opens it. It manages two speeds. The “sweep” controls how fast the door swings toward the frame. The “latch”, also called the “check”, controls the final pull into the frame. Door technicians adjust both speeds independently on most models.
Door closers are available in three mounting styles:
- A surface-mounted closer bolts to the door or frame in plain view.
- Concealed overhead models tuck inside the frame or transom.
- The floor spring, or in-ground closer, sits down in the floor beneath the door.
You will find closers on manual doors, swing-style automatic doors, and low-energy operators. Which style of closer is best? That depends on the door and its uses. The right closer depends on door weight, traffic volume, and how people use the opening. An experienced door technician can assess the door and recommend the best options for your use case. This is another reason why hiring experienced, specialized technicians will help you save time and money in the long-term.
When a closer fails, the door can usually show some clues as to why it failed Here are a couple common causes we see in the field:
- Hydraulic Fluid Loss: a manual door that won’t stay shut has often lost hydraulic fluid. Look for a small oil puddle on the hinge side.
- Automatic Door Causes: An automatic door that won’t stay shut is usually caused by one of three problems:
- A broken spring,
- trapped air pressure, or
- a stuck sensor can.