How to Adjust the Spring Tensioner on a Door Closer

Closers are typically mounted inside a storm door at either the top or bottom. They determine the speed at which the storm door closes. If the storm door either slams shut or does not have enough speed to latch, adjust the closer's spring tension. You typically do this by adjusting a setscrew at one end of the closer. The setscrew often is quite sensitive, so only adjust it a quarter- or half-turn at a time.

Allen wrench
Phillips screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Open the storm door and let go to determine if the door's closing speed needs to be slowed down or speeded up.
- 2
  Look on the closer's end, attached to the storm door. You will see a either a hex screw or a Phillips screw on the end. Use an Allen wrench or a Phillips screwdriver as appropriate to turn the screw about a half-turn. Turn it either clockwise to increase the closing speed or counterclockwise to decrease the closing speed.
- 3
  Open the storm door and release it so it closes. If the door closes at the desired speed, you are done. If the door still closes either too fast or too slow, turn the screw in the appropriate direction about a quarter of a turn and test again. Repeat as needed until you achieve the closing speed you want.

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