The Best Door Closers
Prime-Line KC10HD Safety Spring Door Closer
This easy to install option helps turn hinged doors into self-closing doors and can be used on doors up to 150 pounds. It can be stalled on both left- and right-handed doors, and it’s simple to adjust the closing force and speed. This opener works in a pushing-closed manner for closing the door, and it does not have a hold open feature. The closer and plastic slide plate are both surface mounted, so this is a relatively easy DIY installation project with a few household tools.
The closer features a white painted finish which works well with most door styles. Take note that this closer is for indoor use only and could rust if used outdoors, so if you need a closer for an external door, we recommend looking at other options.
Pros
- Straightforward installation
- Easy to find the closing speed that works for your door and situation
Cons
- Can’t be used on exterior screen or storm doors
Key Features
- For use on doors up to 150 pounds
- Works with left- or right-handed doors
- Adjustable closing force and speed
- Indoor use only
- White finish
Specifications
- Brand: Prime-Line
- Product Weight: 14.1 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 9.25 x 6.5 inches
Wright Products V150WH Heavy Duty Pneumatic Closer
This door closer by Wright Products is specifically designed to work with screen and storm doors. It features a full 90-degree door opening and adjustable closing speeds. This unit is recommended for lightweight screen doors or heavier external storm doors, and will provide extra peace of mind when leaving your home so you don’t have to worry about the door staying open.
Whether your external doors don’t have an automatic closer or you need a replacement, we think this easy to install choice will meet your needs.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Helps ensure your external or internal doors stay closed
Cons
- May cause more resistance to open the door
Key Features
- For screen or storm doors
- Indoor or outdoor use
- Adjustable closing speed
- 90-degree door opening
Specifications
- Brand: Wright Products
- Product Weight: 1.04 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 15.75 x 1.81 x 3.75 inches
FORTSTRONG Commercial Door Closer FS-7600
A great choice for heavily-trafficked doors, this ADA-compliant closer is designed to withstand more than 2 million open/close cycles. The Fortstrong closer is also designed for heavy-duty doors and works on doors up to 264 pounds, allowing them to close more smoothly. It has six different adjustment levels for maximum control over how fast the door closes. This closer is designed for both indoor and outdoor use and features anti-rust protection if used on exterior doors.
The unit includes clear fitting instructions with a life-size fitting template to make installation as easy as possible. It can be installed in a variety of ways, including parallel and top jamb installation, so it’s compatible with a wide range of door and frame types. This closer also comes with a nice warranty option – if you aren’t satisfied with its performance, you can get a full refund or replacement.
Pros
- Can be installed in a variety of ways
- Clear installation instructions
- Works well for heavy duty doors
Cons
- Might be more needed for average home use
Key Features
- Works on doors up to 264 pounds
- Six speed adjustment levels
- For indoor and outdoor use
- Includes a warranty
Specifications
- Brand: FORTSTRONG
- Product Weight: 6.19 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 12.8 x 4.3 x 3.6 inches
Prime-Line KC17HD Safety Spring Door Closer
This door closer is essentially the same item as our top pick, but comes with a brown finish so it can more easily blend into darker or wood doors. It works on doors up to 150 pounds and can be used on right- or left-handed doors. The closer is fully adjustable for both closing force and speed.
Be sure to only use this closer indoors, as the closer is not weatherproof. All parts of this closer are surface mounted, so installation is straightforward and can make for a quick DIY project.
Pros
- DIY installation
- Adjustable for closing force and speed
Cons
- Can’t be used on exterior screen or storm doors
Key Features
- For use on doors up to 150 pounds
- Works with left- or right-handed doors
- Adjustable closing force and speed
- Indoor use only
- Brown finish
Specifications
- Brand: Prime-Line
- Product Weight: 1 pound
- Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 9.25 x 6.5 inches
What To Consider Prior To Purchasing A Door Closer
Before purchasing a closer for your door, it’s important to check that the closer will work for your door type, that it will be easy to install, and that it comes with adjustable features for closing speed and strength. Below are some factors to consider before purchasing a door closer.
Door Size And Type
Some door closers have specific weight limitations or can only be used with certain types of doors. Lightweight interior doors work with a variety of door closer options, but if you’re looking to close a heavier exterior or fire door then you’ll need something more heavy duty with a higher weight capacity. The design of the door closer may also work better for some door types over others. Some are designed specifically for screen doors, so be sure to check out the specifications before you buy.
Indoor Vs Outdoor Use
If you need a door closer for a screen or other external door, make sure that the closer you’re purchasing is weather resistant or rustproof. Often this will be listed in the description, but if you aren’t sure, check out user reviews or ask the manufacturer to ensure it’ll work for your situation.
Adjustability
We recommend looking for a door closer that allows you to adjust the closing speed and strength. The purpose of a door closer is to ensure the door closes behind you, but you want to make sure the door won’t slam or close too quickly in most situations. An adjustable closer will help you get the right fit for your needs. Some of the more commercial door closers will give you an even wider range of speed adjustments and also help heavy or bulky doors close slowly and more smoothly.
Installation Type
If you’ll be installing the door closer yourself make sure the closer comes with clear instructions on how and where to install. You’ll also want to check that you have enough surface area on the wall or door frame for the installation, so be sure to measure before buying. Some closers allow you to install in a variety of ways, including at the top of the doorjamb, so if you have a tricky setup or limited space, look for an option with more flexibility on the installation.
