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How To Replace A Door Closer
A door closer provides a safe means for pedestrians to enter or exit your building. A defective door closer is not only a safety concern, but a large hinderance to pedestrians trying to gain access to your building. In this article we go over step by step how to replace any surface mounted commercial door closer.
Step 1: Identify Door Closer Body Type
Surface mount door closers are the most popular door closer types for commercial doors. Although there are hundreds of door closer brands and models to choose from, don't be overwhelmed, as there are really only 2 main door closer body types as illustrated below: the standard duty door closer body and the heavy duty door closer body. If the door closer has a plastic cover over the door closer body be sure to remove it so you are able to identify the door closer body type.
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Step 2: Measure Vertical and Horizontal Hole Pattern
The illustration below shows the vertical and horizontal measurements needed. Each measurement is from the center to center of each mounting hole, not the end of the door closer body. Measure both the vertical and horizontal hole pattern.
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Step 3: Match The Hole Pattern
Once the hole pattern measurements have been taken they can be matched up with the new door closer model. The link below is for a DC USA Approved ADA Compliant Universal Door Closer. If you are in need of a replacement door closer, click the product below and choose the matched hole pattern.
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Other Considerations
Door Closer Finish
Commercial door closers come in two main finishes: aluminum (silver) and dark bronze. When replacing your existing door closer you will want to make sure to match the door closer finish in order to maintain the same aesthetics.
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Door Closer Hold Open Function
Some door closers have a hold open arm which is an arm that can be adjusted to hold the door open. Did the original door closer have a hold open door closer arm? If it did and you liked that function, be sure to choose a hold open arm for the new door closer replacement. If the original door closer did not have the hold open function, you can choose to upgrade and add the hold open arm to your new replacement door closer.
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Backcheck Function
Backcheck is an opening speed adjustment for the last 15 degrees of the door opening cycle. When adjusted properly it slows the door speed down as it approaches the full open position. This is a great feature to have to save the door closer from any damage when the wind catches the door or when somebody tries to swing the door open too hard. If the original door closer did not have backcheck, you may want to consider upgrading and adding this feature to the new door closer replacement as it is a great investment to increase the door closer's life span.
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Door Closer Manufacturer Hole Patterns
Below is a list of the vertical and horizontal hole patterns for common door closer manufacturers. The information below can be used to quickly identify the door closer's vertical and horizontal hole pattern if the brand and model is known.
3/4" Vertical CTC Holes x 9-1/16" Horizontal CTC Holes
2-1/4" Vertical CTC Holes x 5" Horizontal CTC Holes
3/4" Vertical CTC Holes x 12" Horizontal CTC Holes
2-3/8" Vertical CTC Holes x 6-3/4" Horizontal CTC Holes
1" Vertical CTC Holes x 7-1/2" Horizontal CTC Holes
2-1/8" Vertical CTC Holes x 5" Horizontal CTC Holes
3/4" Vertical CTC Holes x 10-1/4" Horizontal CTC Holes
1" Vertical CTC Holes x 11-1/8" Horizontal CTC Holes
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