Slow closing hinges are a great way to add a touch of sophistication and convenience to your home. They help to prevent doors from slamming shut, which can be a hazard for children and pets. However, over time, slow closing hinges can become loose or misaligned, causing them to close too slowly or too quickly. If you’re experiencing this problem, don’t worry – it’s an easy fix. In this article, we’ll show you how to adjust slow closing hinges in just a few simple steps.
First, you’ll need to identify the type of slow closing hinge you have. There are two main types: surface-mounted and concealed. Surface-mounted hinges are the most common type and are installed on the outside of the door frame. Concealed hinges are hidden inside the door frame and are less visible. Once you’ve identified the type of hinge you have, you can follow the steps below to adjust it.
To adjust surface-mounted slow closing hinges, you’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver. Simply remove the screws that hold the hinge in place and adjust the screw that controls the closing speed. Turn the screw clockwise to slow down the closing speed and counterclockwise to speed it up. Once you’ve made the adjustment, tighten the screws and test the hinge to make sure it’s working properly.
Identifying the Adjustment Screws
Identifying the adjustment screws on slow-closing hinges can be a crucial step in adjusting their functionality. These screws allow you to fine-tune the closing speed and force, ensuring optimal performance for your cabinets and drawers. However, locating these screws can sometimes be challenging due to variations in hinge designs and manufacturers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you pinpoint the adjustment screws on your slow-closing hinges:
Checking the Hinge Arm
The first step is to examine the hinge arm, which is the part of the hinge that attaches to the cabinet door or drawer front. Most slow-closing hinges feature a small, round or oval-shaped hole or slot located on the hinge arm. This hole or slot typically houses the adjustment screw.
Locating the Adjustment Screw
Once you have identified the hole or slot, insert a screwdriver or hex key of the appropriate size. Gently rotate the screwdriver or key until you feel resistance. This resistance indicates that you have engaged the adjustment screw.
Identifying the Different Screws
In some cases, slow-closing hinges may have multiple adjustment screws. Each screw typically serves a specific function:
| Screw | Function |
|---|---|
| Closing Speed Screw | Adjusts the speed at which the door or drawer closes. |
| Closing Force Screw | Adjusts the amount of force required to close the door or drawer. |
| Latch Tension Screw | Adjusts the tension of the latch, affecting how tightly the door or drawer closes. |
Preparing Your Tools
To adjust slow-closing hinges, you’ll need a few basic tools:
1. A Phillips head screwdriver:
This is the most common type of screwdriver used to adjust slow-closing hinges.
2. A flat head screwdriver or Allen wrench (optional):
Depending on the type of slow-closing hinge, you may also need a flat head screwdriver or an Allen wrench to tighten or loosen the hinge screws.
3. A pair of pliers (optional):
In some cases, you may need a pair of pliers to grip the hinge screws if they are rusty or difficult to turn.
4. A step stool or ladder (optional):
If the hinges are located high up on the door, you may need a step stool or ladder to reach them.
5. A flashlight (optional):
If the hinges are located in a dark area, you may need a flashlight to see what you’re doing.
In addition to these tools, you may also need a small amount of lubricating oil or grease to apply to the hinges after adjusting them.
Loosening the Tension Screws
To adjust the closing speed of slow-closing hinges, you’ll need to loosen the tension screws. These screws are usually located at the top and bottom of the hinge cup, and they regulate the amount of friction that is applied to the hinge when it closes.
Using a screwdriver, turn the tension screws counterclockwise to loosen them. Continue turning until the desired closing speed is achieved. Be careful not to over-loosen the screws, as this can cause the hinge to become loose and unstable.
Once the tension screws have been loosened, test the closing speed of the hinge by opening and closing the door. If the door is closing too quickly or too slowly, adjust the tension screws accordingly.
The following table provides a general guide to the adjustment of tension screws:
| Tension Screw Position | Closing Speed |
|---|---|
| Top screw loosened, bottom screw tightened | Fast closing |
| Top screw tightened, bottom screw loosened | Slow closing |
| Both screws loosened | Very slow closing |
| Both screws tightened | Very fast closing |
Tightening the Speed Screws
Typically, slow-closing hinges have two speed screws: one controls the closing speed and one the latching speed. These screws are usually located at the back or bottom of the hinge. To make adjustments, follow these steps:
- Locate the speed screws: Most slow-closing hinges have two screws labeled “S” or “Speed” – one for latching and one for closing.
- Choose a screwdriver: Use a Phillips #2 screwdriver that fits the screw head snugly.
- Tighten or loosen the screws: Turn the closing speed screw clockwise to slow down the closing speed or counterclockwise to speed it up. Adjust the latching speed screw in the same manner.
| Adjustment | Effect |
|---|---|
| Turning the closing speed screw clockwise | Slows down the closing speed |
| Turning the closing speed screw counterclockwise | Speeds up the closing speed |
| Turning the latching speed screw clockwise | Slows down the latching speed |
| Turning the latching speed screw counterclockwise | Speeds up the latching speed |
Note: Adjust the screws gradually, testing the hinge after each adjustment to ensure the desired speed is achieved. Overtightening the screws can damage the hinge or prevent it from closing properly.
Adjusting the Latching Speed
The latching speed determines how quickly the door closes after it is open. To adjust the latching speed:
- Open the door completely.
- Locate the screw on the hinge that controls the latching speed. This screw is usually located near the top of the hinge.
- Turn the screw clockwise to increase the latching speed (the door will close more quickly), or turn it counterclockwise to decrease the latching speed (the door will close more slowly).
- Test the door to see if the latching speed is to your liking.
- If the door is not closing quickly enough, check to see if the hinge is properly lubricated. Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the hinge, and then test the door again. If the door is still not closing slowly enough, it may be necessary to replace the hinge.
In the table below, you can find some additional information about adjusting the latching speed:
| Screw Position | Latching Speed |
|---|---|
| Turned Clockwise | Faster |
| Turned Counterclockwise | Slower |
| Neutral Position | Medium Speed |
Balancing the Hinge Movement
Once the hinge is installed, you can adjust the closing speed and force to your preference. Most slow-closing hinges have two adjustment screws, one for closing speed and one for closing force. The closing speed screw is typically located near the top of the hinge, and the closing force screw is typically located near the bottom. To speed up the closing speed, turn the screw clockwise. To slow down the closing speed, turn the screw counterclockwise. To increase the closing force, turn the screw clockwise. To decrease the closing force, turn the screw counterclockwise.
It may take some trial and error to get the perfect adjustment. Start by making small adjustments to the screws and then testing the hinge. If the hinge is closing too quickly, turn the speed screw counterclockwise. If the hinge is not closing with enough force, turn the force screw clockwise.
Here is a table summarizing the adjustments you can make to the hinge:
| Adjustment | Effect |
|---|---|
| Closing speed screw (top) | Adjusts the speed at which the hinge closes |
| Closing force screw (bottom) | Adjusts the force with which the hinge closes |
Testing the Hinge Operation
Before making any adjustments, you need to assess the current operation of the hinge. Test it by opening and closing the door slowly. Observe the movement and speed of the door as it opens and closes. Pay attention to any unusual noises or resistance.
1. Checking the Spring Tension
If the door swings open or closed too quickly, the spring tension may need to be adjusted. Most slow-closing hinges have a screw or knob that controls the spring tension. Tightening the screw will increase the tension, while loosening it will decrease the tension.
2. Inspecting the Hydraulic Mechanism
Some slow-closing hinges use a hydraulic mechanism to control the closing speed. If the door closes too slowly or doesn’t close all the way, the hydraulic mechanism may be faulty. Check for any leaks or damage to the mechanism.
3. Examining the Hinge Pins
If the door feels loose or wobbly, the hinge pins may be worn or damaged. Inspect the hinge pins for any signs of wear or damage. If necessary, you may need to replace the hinge pins.
4. Checking the Door Alignment
The alignment of the door can also affect the operation of the slow-closing hinge. If the door is not aligned properly, it may cause the hinge to bind or malfunction. Check the door alignment by measuring the gaps between the door and the frame.
5. Identifying Obstructions
Any obstructions in the path of the door can interfere with the operation of the slow-closing hinge. Inspect the area around the door for any obstructions, such as objects or debris. Remove any obstructions that may be causing the door to open or close improperly.
6. Testing the Backcheck Feature
Some slow-closing hinges have a backcheck feature that prevents the door from being opened too far. Test the backcheck feature by opening the door to its maximum opening angle. The backcheck mechanism should engage and prevent the door from opening any further.
7. Troubleshooting Unusual Noises
If you hear any unusual noises when operating the door, it may be a sign of a problem. Common noises include squeaking, grinding, or rattling. Identify the source of the noise and determine the cause. It may be necessary to lubricate the hinge, tighten loose screws, or replace worn parts.
| Noise | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Squeaking | Lack of lubrication in the hinge |
| Grinding | Worn or damaged hinge pins |
| Rattling | Loose screws or damaged hinge |
Making Fine Adjustments
Once you’ve made the initial adjustments to your slow-closing hinges, you may want to fine-tune them for perfect operation.
To do this, follow these steps:
1. Determine which screw to adjust.
There are typically two screws on a slow-closing hinge that control the speed of the closing action. One screw will be labeled “speed” or “close,” and the other will be labeled “latch” or “open.”
2. Adjust the screw in small increments.
Use a screwdriver to turn the adjustment screw in small increments, either clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on which way you want to adjust the speed.
3. Test the adjustment.
Close the door slowly and observe the closing action. If the door closes too slowly or too quickly, repeat steps 2-3 until you find the desired speed.
| Adjustment | Result |
|---|---|
| Turn the “speed” screw clockwise | Door closes more slowly |
| Turn the “speed” screw counterclockwise | Door closes more quickly |
| Turn the “latch” screw clockwise | Door closes with more force |
| Turn the “latch” screw counterclockwise | Door closes with less force |
4. Repeat for the other hinges.
If you have multiple slow-closing hinges on the door, repeat steps 1-3 for each hinge until all hinges are properly adjusted.
Retightening the Tension Screws
The tension screws on a slow-closing hinge control the speed at which the door closes. Over time, these screws can loosen, causing the door to close too quickly or too slowly. Retightening the screws is a simple task that can be done in a few minutes.
To retighten the tension screws, you will need a screwdriver that fits the screws. Find the screws on the hinge and turn them clockwise to tighten them. Turn the screws slowly until the door closes at the desired speed. If the door is still closing too quickly, turn the screws another quarter turn. If the door is closing too slowly, turn the screws counterclockwise to loosen them.
Use a screwdriver that fits the tension screws
The first step is to find the right screwdriver for the job. The tension screws on slow-closing hinges are typically Phillips head screws, so you will need a Phillips head screwdriver that fits the screws snugly. If you use a screwdriver that is too small, you may strip the screws.
Locate the tension screws
Once you have the right screwdriver, locate the tension screws on the hinge. The tension screws are usually located on the side of the hinge that is attached to the door. There may be one or two tension screws, depending on the type of hinge.
Turn the tension screws clockwise to tighten them
To tighten the tension screws, turn them clockwise with the screwdriver. Turn the screws slowly, one quarter turn at a time. As you tighten the screws, the door will start to close more slowly. Continue turning the screws until the door closes at the desired speed.
Turn the tension screws counterclockwise to loosen them
If the door is closing too slowly, you can loosen the tension screws by turning them counterclockwise. Turn the screws slowly, one quarter turn at a time. As you loosen the screws, the door will start to close more quickly. Continue turning the screws until the door closes at the desired speed.
Test the door
Once you have adjusted the tension screws, test the door to make sure it is closing at the desired speed. If the door is still not closing correctly, you may need to adjust the screws again.
| Screw Size | Screwdriver Type |
|---|---|
| PH1 | Phillips head #1 |
| PH2 | Phillips head #2 |
| PH3 | Phillips head #3 |
Inspecting for Proper Function
1. Open the door and observe the movement of the hinges. The door should open smoothly and close slowly and quietly, without any noticeable resistance or jamming.
2. Check the tension of the adjustment screw. The screw should be tightened just enough to provide the desired resistance. If the screw is too loose, the door will close too quickly; if it is too tight, the door will close too slowly or not at all.
3. Test the door’s closing speed. The door should close gradually, taking a few seconds to reach the closed position. If the door closes too quickly, adjust the tension screw to reduce the resistance.
4. Inspect the hinge pins for wear or damage. Loose or worn pins can cause the door to sag or bind, which can affect its closing speed. Replace any damaged pins as needed.
5. Check the door frame for any obstructions or misalignment. Obstructions, such as paint buildup or warping, can prevent the door from closing properly. Reposition the door or adjust the frame as necessary.
6. Inspect the door jamb for any contact with the hinge leaves. The hinge leaves should clear the door jamb by a small amount to prevent the door from binding. Adjust the position of the hinges or the door jamb if necessary.
7. Check the door’s alignment with the frame. The door should be centered in the frame and open and close evenly on both sides. Adjust the hinges as needed to achieve proper alignment.
8. Inspect the door’s latch and strike plate. The latch should engage with the strike plate smoothly and securely. If the latch does not engage properly, adjust the position of the strike plate or the latch as needed.
9. Check the door’s weatherstripping. Weatherstripping can wear out or become damaged over time, allowing air and moisture to leak into the room. Replace any damaged weatherstripping to ensure a tight seal.
10. Perform a final check of the door’s operation. Open and close the door several times to make sure it moves smoothly and closes properly. If any adjustments are needed, make them before proceeding to the next step.
How To Adjust Slow Closing Hinges
Slow closing hinges are a great way to add a touch of sophistication to your home. They can also help to prevent your doors from slamming shut, which can be a safety hazard for children and pets. If you’re finding that your slow closing hinges are not working properly, it’s likely that they just need to be adjusted.
Here are the steps on how to adjust slow closing hinges:
- Locate the adjustment screws on the hinge.
- Use a screwdriver to turn the adjustment screws clockwise to tighten them or counterclockwise to loosen them.
- Turn the screws until the hinge is closing at the desired speed.
- Test the hinge by opening and closing the door several times.
- If the hinge is still not closing properly, repeat steps 2-4 until it is working correctly.
People Also Ask
How do you adjust slow closing cabinet hinges?
To adjust slow closing cabinet hinges, follow the steps outlined above. The adjustment screws are typically located on the top and bottom of the hinge.
How do I increase the tension on slow closing hinges?
To increase the tension on slow closing hinges, turn the adjustment screws clockwise.
How do I decrease the tension on slow closing hinges?
To decrease the tension on slow closing hinges, turn the adjustment screws counterclockwise.
