What each valve does
- Sweep speed: how fast the door closes through most of its swing.
- Latch speed: the last few inches, so the door pushes past the latch and closes fully.
- Backcheck: cushions the door when it's thrown open, so it doesn't hit the wall or rip the closer off.
How to adjust safely
The valves are usually small screws on the end or side of the closer body. Turn a quarter turn at a time and test the door after each change. Turning clockwise usually slows the door, but check the label on your closer. Never back a valve all the way out, since fluid can leak and the closer is ruined.
Accessible entrances often need the door to close slowly enough for someone using a wheelchair or walker to get through, and not to need too much force to open.
When adjustment won't fix it
- The closer leaks oil
- The door slams no matter how the valves are set
- The closer is too small for a large or heavy door
- The arm or mounting is bent or loose
When to call us
Call if the door still slams, won't latch, or needs too much force to open. We adjust or replace the closer and can set it for accessibility requirements.
Questions
How often should a door closer be adjusted?
Whenever the door stops closing well. Seasonal temperature changes can thicken or thin the fluid, so some doors need a small tweak in winter and summer.