How to Adjust a Manual Door Closer

Locate the closing speed and latch speed adjustment screws on the body of the manual door closer. The screws are usually on either end of the closer body or the front. A step ladder may be required to reach the closer.

Pull the door open and release it to observe both the closing speed and the latch speed. The closing speed is how fast the door reaches within a few inches of the door latch. The latch speed is how long it takes the door to completely close within the framework.

Turn the closing speed adjustment screw counterclockwise with the appropriate screwdriver to increase the door’s closing speed, or clockwise to decrease it. The screw is usually marked with a “C.”

Repeat Step 3 using increments of one half turn until a satisfactory closing rate is achieved. The door should stall approximately three or four inches from the framework latch.

Adjust the door latch speed rate screw by turning it with a screwdriver clockwise to decrease or counterclockwise to increase the latch speed. The screw is usually marked with a “L”, or otherwise identified.

Repeat Step 6 until the door closes completely and quietly.

Open the door to its fullest extent and release it. A properly adjusted door closes smoothly, stalling a few inches from the frame before softly closing and latching within the frame.