How to Adjust the Tension on a Door Closer

Adjusting an Exterior Door Closer

• 1

  Find the tension adjustment screw on the body of the door closer. Many exterior door closers contain both a “latch” adjustment screw and a “sweep” adjustment screw. The “sweep” adjustment controls the rate that the door closes from fully open to a few degrees before latching. The “latch” adjustment controls the rate that the door closes a few degrees before the door latches shut.

• 2

  Insert the Allen wrench into either the “sweep” adjustment screw or the “latch” adjustment screw – depending upon which rate of closure you wish to adjust – and turn the wrench to adjust the screw.

• 3

  Open the door, and then release the door to test the rate of closure. If the door still does not close at the rate you require, repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the door closer is adjusted to your needs.

Adjusting a Storm Door Closer

• 4

  Find the tension adjustment screw on the door closer cylinder.

• 5

  Place the screwdriver into the screw head. Adjust the tension adjustment screw.

• 6

  Open the door, and then release the door to test the rate of closure. If the door still does not close at the rate you require, repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the door closer is adjusted to your needs.