Door closers are an integral element of commercial properties, ensuring doors are always securely shut, reducing energy costs and wear on the door frame. They function by utilizing a hydraulic arm to gently close the door. In this guide, we’ll explore the process of installing commercial door closers, their maintenance, and choosing between ball bearing hinges and regular hinges.
Pre-Installation Phase: Gathering the Tools
Before delving into the installation process, it’s crucial to have the right tools at hand. Here’s what you need to get started:
- Drill
- Drill bits (3.5mm for wood, 5.1mm for metal)
- Marker, pen, or pencil
- Hammer
- Centerpunch
- Cleaning cloth
- Screwdriver
- Socket wrenches
Safety Note: Always wear proper safety gear, including long sleeves, goggles, gloves, etc., to protect yourself from debris.
The Installation Process: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Unpacking and Organizing
Start by unpacking your commercial door closer and laying out all the parts on a flat, clean surface. Organizing from the get-go will save you from potential hiccups later on.
2. Positioning the Door Closer
Grab the template provided and align it with the desired position on the door. This step is key to ensuring a correct fit and marking the drilling points.
3. Marking the Drill Points
Once you’ve positioned the door closer, use your marker, pen, or pencil to mark the points where you’ll drill. Accuracy here is crucial, as even a slightly misaligned hole could compromise the integrity of your commercial door closer.
4. Preparing for Drilling
(Optional) Utilize the center punch at this stage to mark your drilling points, creating guidelines for the pilot holes you’ll drill next.
5. Drilling Pilot Holes
Using the correct drill bit (3.5mm for wood, 5.1mm for metal), drill pilot holes at each marked point. Feather or pulse the drill to control debris.
6. Clearing the Workspace
Use your cleaning cloth to brush off excess debris from your workspace. This prevents debris from interfering with your screws and traps moisture, avoiding potential rust issues.
7. Fixing the Door Closer
Align the door closer with the holes and drill the screws through each hole. Avoid over-tightening the screws to prevent stripping.
8. Testing the Installation
Once the door closer is firmly installed, test it by allowing the door to close on its own. If the closing speed is satisfactory, your installation is successful. If not, you can adjust the latch and closing speed by rotating their respective screws.
Adjusting Door Closer Speed
Commercial door closers come with two speed adjustment valves: SWEEP and LATCH. Here’s how to adjust them:
SWEEP Speed Adjustment
- Turn the valve clockwise to slow the closing speed.
- Turn the valve counter-clockwise to increase the closing speed.
LATCH Speed Adjustment
- Turn the screw clockwise to slow down the latching speed.
- Turn the screw counter-clockwise to increase the latching speed.
Post-Installation: Maintaining Your Commercial Door Closer
Just like any metal tool or device, commercial door closers require proper maintenance. Here are a few tips to ensure the longevity of your door closer:
- Lubricate the door closer sparingly. Too much lubrication can lead to dripping or coagulation.
- Avoid forcing the door to close. This can stress the components and lead to damage.
- Commercial door closers typically have a lifespan of approximately seven years. Avoid overworking them to prevent breakage and possible injury.
Wrapping Up
Installing commercial door closers isn’t a daunting task if you have the right tools and follow the correct procedures. Remember, maintenance is equally important to ensure the longevity of your door closer. And lastly, when weighing between ball bearing hinges and regular hinges, consider the usage, maintenance, and durability aspects before making a decision.
Remember, a well-installed and maintained commercial door closer does more than just close a door; it enhances security, energy efficiency, and overall usability of your commercial space.