To adjust the closing speed of your storm door, you typically locate the adjustment screw on the door closer cylinder and turn it.
Adjusting the screw on a storm door closer is a common way to control how quickly or slowly the door shuts. This screw regulates the flow of hydraulic fluid or air inside the cylinder, which in turn affects the piston's movement and thus the door's speed.
Locating the Adjustment Screw
The adjustment screw is usually found at the end of the door closer cylinder that is furthest from the door hinge. It might be a flat-head or Phillips-head screw, or sometimes a hex screw. Some closers may have two screws controlling different phases of the closing (main speed and latching speed), but most standard storm door closers have just one main adjustment screw.
How Turning the Screw Affects Speed
The direction you turn the screw directly impacts the door's closing speed:
- Tightening the screw: Turning the screw clockwise restricts the flow of fluid. As indicated by informational content regarding door closers, tightening the closer will make it close slower.
- Loosening the screw: Turning the screw counter-clockwise increases the flow of fluid, allowing the door to close faster.
It's important to make small adjustments (a quarter or half turn at a time) and test the door's speed after each adjustment until you achieve the desired closing rate.
Steps for Adjusting Your Storm Door Closer
Follow these simple steps to adjust the speed:
- Locate the Adjustment Screw: Find the screw at the end of the closer cylinder, away from the hinges.
- Identify Screw Type: Determine if you need a flat-head, Phillips, or hex screwdriver.
- Make Small Adjustments:
- To slow the door down, turn the screw clockwise.
- To speed the door up, turn the screw counter-clockwise.
- Test the Door: Open the door fully and let it close naturally to observe the speed.
- Repeat if Necessary: Continue making small adjustments and testing until the door closes at the desired speed without slamming or closing too slowly.
| Adjustment Direction | Effect on Speed |
|---|---|
| Tighten (Clockwise) | Slower |
| Loosen (Counter-clockwise) | Faster |
Proper adjustment ensures the door closes securely every time while preventing it from slamming shut, which can damage the door or frame.
