How To Release An Andersen Storm Door Closer

Andersen doors and windows by Emco is one of the leading brands of storm doors in the United States. If your Andersen storm door closer refuses to close, the simple answer is press the thumb button release. Should that fail, a few simple steps may help.

Step 1

Check to be sure the closer you are attempting to release is the only closer on your door. Andersen frequently recommends dual closers. If the closer you are attempting to release is at the bottom of the door, look up and vice versa. If there is a second closer, use the push-button release to free the door. If this fails, complete the following steps for each closer.

Step 2

Press down firmly on the push-button release while pushing out on the door to release the tension. If there is still no change, extend the opener to its max by pushing the door outward firmly. In this position. try the push-button release again. If this fails, move on to the next step. If your door release has no push button, substitute sliding the hold-open washer all the way toward the jam.

Step 3

Loosen the pneumatic adjustment screw. With a Phillips screwdriver, turn the pneumatic adjustment screw–which is located in the center of the door end of the pneumatic cylinder–as far counterclockwise as it will go. This allows the air to escape faster. Attempt pressing the release button again. If you are not successful in releasing your storm-door closer, move on to the next step.

Step 4

Use pliers to pull the retention pins at either end to release your Andersen storm door closer from the mounting brackets. If the door remains open, the problem is in the hinges and may require the assistance of a professional carpenter or handyman.