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How Does a Closer Work?
A door closer—otherwise known as a door check or door spring—is a mechanical device that stores the energy implemented in the opening of the door using a spring. When the door is closed, the spring releases this energy so that the door shuts in a very controlled manner (and, therefore, does not slam).
Door closers are integral to the proper closing of every door. When door closers malfunction due to cylinder cracks or O-ring abrasion, an oil leak may result. These leaks lead to uncontrolled door closing, damage to both the door and the door frame. It’s produce an extreme slipping hazard as well. By detecting door closer leaks early, you can ensure that your business is safe, and that you save both time and money in the long-run!
Why Do Door Closers Leak Oil?
Door closer oil leakage often results from two primary sources including door closer cylinder cracks and o-ring malfunctions. Cylinder cracks are induced via excessive internal pressure within the cylinder due to the over-use of the door closer.
While they may not be visible at first, these cracks grow quickly. They may cause the door closer to leak oil as they develop over time. O-ring malfunctions, the second common source of door closer leakage, may also arise from excessive door usage.
Constant abrasion causes the O-ring seal to wear down, becoming flatter and smoother as a result. A leak may develop when the O-ring is no longer able to effectively seal the oil within the door closer.
Potential Hazards Associated with a Door Closer Leak
When door closers lose their supply of oil due to leakage, they also lose their ability to effectively control the closing of the corresponding door. Not only is the resultant slamming of the door unpleasant for customers and employees, but a free-swinging door is also a safety hazard for anyone in the vicinity. Additionally, uncontrolled closing may induce damage to both the door frame and to the door itself, leading to unnecessary and avoidable costs.
Aside from door slamming and damages to the door frame, fixing a leaking door closer should be a top priority for another reason as well.
When a closer leaks it presents a potential hazard to those entering and exiting a doorway.
A leaking closer may cause a slippery floor
A door closer’s location makes it a perfect opportunity for a safety hazard. When door closers leak, the oil makes the floor extremely slippery and, likewise, passage through the doorway extremely dangerous. Furthermore, the leaking oil may directly hit anyone who passes beneath the door and can also stain personal belongings.
Steps to Take When Your Door Closer Leaks Oil
Door closer leaks are products of natural wear-and-tear. Standard door closers are not made with materials that are durable enough to withstand consistent, intensive usage.
Identifying Leaks Early
Saving yourself—or your business—from having to replace the entire system. Doing so may even prevent an unwanted lawsuit due to an employee’s or customer’s personal injury.
Taking Action
All in all, the oil leaks take time to develop and may not be initially noticeable. It is integral to detect these types of problems early by checking the door closer arm, hinge, and body for any signs of oil draining.
If any leaks are detected, installing a new heavy-duty, cast-iron door closer as soon as possible is the best option to save you and your business both time and money in the long-run.
Service And Support
Our technicians, fix doors on a daily basis, they are knowable and very experienced. We know that when doors start to become hard to open and close, it’s a bad idea to ignore it since it almost always will get worse.
Your door is in good hands when you use our service. Call Door Repair NYC 212-202-0491.
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