To make a storm door close faster, you typically need to adjust the hydraulic closer mechanism attached to the door and frame. The adjustment involves turning a screw on the end of the closer opposite the door hinge.
Adjusting the Storm Door Closer Speed
Most storm doors use a hydraulic or pneumatic closer that controls the speed at which the door closes. Adjusting this speed is usually a simple process involving a screw located on the end of the closer.
Steps to Increase Closing Speed:
- Locate the Closer: Find the cylindrical tube (the closer) attached to your storm door and its frame. There may be one or two closers; focus on the main closer controlling the swing speed.
- Find the Adjustment Screw: At the end of the closer, opposite the door hinges, you will find a screw. This screw controls the hydraulic fluid flow inside the cylinder, thus regulating the closing speed.
- Select the Right Tool: As seen in instructions for some storm doors, like the Impressions storm door mentioned in the reference, a flathead screwdriver is typically used to turn this screw.
- Make the Adjustment: To make the door close faster, you need to turn the adjustment screw counter-clockwise. The reference notes that turning the screw clockwise makes the door close more slowly. Therefore, the opposite direction (counter-clockwise) increases the speed.
- Turn Incrementally: It's crucial to make small adjustments. Turn the screw a small amount at a time, such as 1/8 of a rotation, as suggested for speed adjustments in door closer manuals. Making large turns can drastically change the speed and potentially damage the mechanism.
- Test the Speed: After each small adjustment, test the door by opening it and letting it close naturally. Observe if the closing speed is closer to your desired rate.
- Repeat if Necessary: Continue making small counter-clockwise turns and testing the door until you achieve the desired closing speed. Be careful not to make it close too quickly, as this can cause the door to slam.
| Adjustment Direction | Effect on Closing Speed |
|---|---|
| Clockwise | Slower |
| Counter-Clockwise | Faster |
Important Considerations:
- Avoid fully unscrewing the adjustment screw, as this can release the hydraulic fluid and render the closer inoperable.
- If the door slams even after turning the screw back clockwise, the closer might be damaged and need replacement.
- Ensure the door is properly lubricated at its hinges and sweep to prevent friction from affecting the closing speed.
Adjusting the closer screw counter-clockwise in small increments is the standard method to increase the closing speed of a storm door.
