Storm door closers are essential components of modern home entry systems, ensuring that doors close properly and remain secure. For those looking to install an Emco storm door closer, understanding the correct installation process, positioning, and adjustment techniques is crucial to achieving optimal performance. This guide draws from reliable technical documentation and installation best practices to provide a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of the process. It also covers key considerations such as selecting the right closer for the door type, adjusting the close rate, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Overview of Storm Door Closers
Storm door closers are hydraulic mechanisms designed to regulate the speed at which a door closes. These devices prevent doors from slamming or swinging open due to wind or other environmental factors. In homes with storm doors or screen doors, closers serve a dual purpose: they enhance convenience and protect the structural integrity of the door and its surrounding frame.
According to the available documentation, storm door closers are especially important in high-wind areas or for heavier doors, where a single closer may not provide sufficient control. The ideal installation often involves using one or two closers, depending on the door’s weight and the local climate. For U.S. homeowners, selecting a high-quality closer from trusted manufacturers such as Emco ensures durability and long-term performance.
Key Components and Installation Steps
Before beginning the installation, it is important to understand the key components of a storm door closer and their roles in the system. A typical closer includes:
- Jamb bracket: This is the mounting bracket that attaches to the door jamb (the frame surrounding the door).
- Door arm: The arm connects to the door and transfers the closing force.
- Hydraulic cylinder: This component controls the closing speed and tension.
- Adjustment screw: Used to fine-tune the close rate of the door.
- Locking mechanism (optional): Some closers come with a locking feature that allows the door to remain open when needed.
The installation process involves several critical steps, including determining the location of the closer, marking and drilling the jamb, attaching the bracket, and adjusting the closer to the desired tension.
Step 1: Determine the Installation Location
The first step in the installation process is to decide where to mount the closer. Most storm door closers can be installed either at the top or bottom of the door, depending on the type of closer being used.
- If the closer includes a "step-on" locking mechanism, it should be mounted at the bottom of the door. This allows for easy access to the locking feature.
- If the closer uses a manual locking tab, it is typically better to mount it at the top of the door for accessibility and visibility.
In some cases, especially with heavier doors or in areas prone to high winds, it is recommended to install two closers—one at the top and one at the bottom. This ensures balanced tension and improved control over the door’s movement.
Step 2: Position the Jamb Bracket
Once the location has been determined, the next step is to position the jamb bracket correctly. The bracket must be aligned with the center of the door rail, which is the horizontal piece of wood at the top or bottom of the door. It should also be set 1/4 inch back from the front edge of the jamb (the side closest to the door).
Additionally, the rounded bulb at the end of the closer should be pointing toward the door to ensure proper alignment. This positioning allows the closer to apply force in the correct direction, facilitating smooth and controlled door movement.
Step 3: Mark, Drill, and Attach the Bracket
After positioning the bracket, the next step is to mark the screw holes on the jamb. A pencil can be used to make these marks. Once the marks are in place, the closer should be swung out of the way, and the screw holes should be pre-drilled. This step ensures that the screws can be inserted smoothly without causing any damage to the jamb.
Once the pre-drilling is complete, the closer is moved back into place, and the bracket is attached using the two supplied screws. Some closers may include a temporary plastic spacer tab that maintains tension during installation. If this is the case, the tab can be removed after the closer is in place.
Step 4: Adjust the Close Rate
One of the most important aspects of installing a storm door closer is adjusting the close rate—the speed at which the door closes automatically. This adjustment is made using the adjustment screw located at the end of the door closer arm.
- Clockwise turns of the screw typically increase tension, which slows down the closing speed.
- Counter-clockwise turns reduce tension, allowing the door to close more quickly.
It is important to test the closing speed multiple times after making adjustments to ensure that it functions properly in all conditions. For example, the air pressure between the main door and the storm door can affect how the closer performs, so it is a good idea to test the door with both the main door open and closed.
Step 5: Final Checks and Testing
After the closer is installed and adjusted, a final inspection should be conducted to ensure that everything is functioning correctly. The closer should be securely attached to the jamb and door arm, and the door should close smoothly without any resistance or sticking.
Testing the door under different conditions—such as with wind or when the main door is open—can help identify any issues that may need to be addressed. If the door still swings open or closes too quickly, further adjustments to the close rate may be necessary.
Choosing the Right Storm Door Closer
Selecting the appropriate closer for a specific door is an important decision that can affect both performance and longevity. The available documentation highlights several reputable manufacturers, including Wright Products, Andersen, and Emco, each offering different levels of quality and functionality.
- Light-to-medium duty closers from Wright Products are ideal for lighter doors and are typically available for $20 or less. These can be used individually for lighter doors or in pairs for heavier ones.
- Higher quality closers from companies like Emco and Andersen often include advanced features such as "step-on" locking mechanisms, which offer a more secure and convenient way to keep the door open when needed.
When choosing a closer, it is also important to consider the color and finish to ensure that it blends in with the door and surrounding area. This is especially important for doors that are frequently visible, such as front or side entrances.
Common Installation Tips and Troubleshooting
While the installation process for storm door closers is generally straightforward, there are a few common issues that homeowners may encounter. These include improper alignment, incorrect tension settings, and damage to the door or frame during installation.
- Improper alignment can cause the closer to apply uneven force, leading to the door closing too quickly or not at all. To avoid this, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for positioning and bracket placement.
- Incorrect tension settings can also be a problem, especially if the door is too heavy or too light for the closer. If the door closes too quickly, the tension should be increased by turning the adjustment screw clockwise. If it closes too slowly, the tension should be reduced by turning the screw counter-clockwise.
- Damage to the door or frame can occur if the screws are not properly pre-drilled or if excessive force is applied during installation. To prevent this, it is recommended to use a screwdriver that is appropriate for the type of screws being used and to avoid over-tightening them.
If a newly installed closer is not functioning as expected, it is a good idea to double-check the installation steps and make any necessary adjustments. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the closer and start the process over to ensure that everything is correctly aligned and functioning properly.
Conclusion
Storm door closers are an essential component of any home with a storm or screen door. Proper installation and adjustment of these devices ensure that doors close smoothly and remain secure, even in high-wind conditions. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide, U.S. homeowners can confidently install an Emco storm door closer and enjoy improved door performance for years to come.
Key takeaways from this guide include:
- Selecting the right closer based on door weight and local climate conditions.
- Following precise positioning and bracket placement guidelines.
- Adjusting the close rate to achieve the desired speed and tension.
- Testing the closer under different conditions to ensure optimal performance.
By adhering to these best practices, homeowners can ensure that their storm door closers function efficiently and provide long-term protection for their home’s entry points.