How to Troubleshoot a 24-Volt Door Release

Installing door releases increases a door's level of security. Door releases are made to withstand years of frequent use and they are extremely reliable. Troubleshooting a 24-volt door release must be done in a methodical, sequential pattern to more quickly remedy any malfunction.

Voltage tester
Flat head screwdriver
Phillips head screwdriver
Cleaner
Cloth
Chisel or putty knife (for prying/adjusting)

Instructions

- 1
  Confirm correct voltage at strike if the door is not actuating. Examine the strike itself if proper voltage is present at testing. Look for any strike damage that may be responsible for actuation failure. Clean the strike of all dust or debris to remove any current blockage.
- 2
  
  Bad coils mean an unlockable door.
  
  Check the coil resistance. Verify sufficient electric release coil resistance for a short or open circuit. Note that intermittent coils can accept power for less than 60 seconds. Keep in mind that the coil is generally not a serviceable part, but usually a replaceable one.
- 3
  Re-examine the lock and latch for proper clearance and correct engagement if the strike is functioning, but the door will not open. Install a shim to correct the misalignment of the two or replace the lock latch with a shorter one to correct the problem.
- 4
  
  A lock without a fully functional latch is not very secure.
  
  Check for too much back pressure on the door release latch. Apply pressure on the door while watching the electric release and latch closely. Do not let the lock's latch press on the electric release latch. Observe any movement of the lock away from the latch to see if too much pressure is applied on the electric release's latch.
- 5
  Use these steps to relieve any excessive pressure discovered. Try re-centering the electric release in the door jamb, install or adjust the door closer. Check and correct excessive warp in the door itself. Trim, or remove if necessary, the door's weather stripping to accommodate the tight fit and realignment.
- 6
  Examine the strike and magnet face if the door hold is so weak you can jerk it open. Make sure the door hold has a smooth, flat fit. Loosen the strike mounting screw to release some strike stiffness/rigidity, then check and adjust until the lock holds as it should.

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