New fire door closer very heavy

[Gary111]

Hi, I've just fitted a new fire door closer, the instructions weren't clear.
It's very heavy to open
Can anyone see any obvious errors please ?
Also what affect does the bar length adjustment have ?
Thanks

 

[Swwils]

Normally these come with a template that you stick to the door and use.

Did this unit not come with this? I am surprised the included instructions were not clear.

Is it one of these units

?

Once it's in position properly you can adjust the latch and speed.

 

[HERTS P&D]

Did you adjust the 'latch' and 'closing speed'?

Andy

 

[Gary111]

Thanks, on my instructions it said to tension it, but in the video they dont do that so I think that's the problem

 

[foxhole]

One arm should be at 90 degrees to frame when installed, looks like you have adjusted return too short.

 

[Deleted member 174758]

The arm which comes off the closer body is the one which should be at 90° to the face of the door. Closer does look a bit near to the edge of the door to my eye, but maybe not. What weight/composition is the door, please?

 

[Gary111]

I'm not sure of composition of door, but as it's a fire door its heavy.
Do you mean it looks a bit close to the hinge side ?
Thanks

 

[foxhole]

The closer should also be matched to the door weight.

 

[Deleted member 174758]

Do you mean it looks a bit close to the hinge side ?

Yes. But as already stated, the closer power must match the door weight. Does it?

 

[Gary111]

Thanks, yes it does

 

[Gary111]

I've had another look at it, if I move it closer to the frame should that reduce the leverage it has on the door ?

one the plans there are 2 different positions to have the closer from the hinge, one is 120 degree installation , which is nearee the hinge, and one is 180 degree.

I've fitted it around 1cm past where it should be for 180 degree, which I guess is giving it too much leverage ?

 

[Deleted member 174758]

Have you adjusted the closing and latching speeds correctly?

 

[Gary111]

Yes thanks

 

[Deleted member 174758]

I am now left trying to figure out what you actually mean by it is "very heavy" to open. The thing is that for a fire door closer to work properly it is required to exert a closing pressure of at least 25kgf to meet the regs, unless it is for use in a school environment (I.e where there are many small children) or on a disabled access door where the regs are different

 

[Gary111]

Thanks, I'm comparing it to the other door I have with a closer fitted.
Obviously i have no way of measuring the force, just the feeling that its heavier, going to speak to the manufacturer today
Thanks for your help