What’s the minimum power size required for a door closer on a fire door?
The minimum strength for a door closer on fire doors is Power Size EN3, as recommended by BS EN 1154 for any fire doors needing an automatic closing device. Power Sizes EN1 and EN2 are advised only for non-fire doors and are unsuitable for fire doors. This is due to fire doors being heavier and denser, having seals that may resist closing, and the imperative need for them to fully close to block fire and smoke.
BS EN 1154 is the harmonised British-European Standard detailing performance and testing methods for door-closing devices, including those for fire doors. The EN Power Sizes classify door closers by the range of door widths and weights they can accommodate, ensuring full closure. These sizes span from EN1 to EN7, with Power Size EN3 suitable for doors up to 950mm wide and up to 60kg.
What are the closing force ratings for fire door closers?
Closing force ratings, or "power size", indicate the maximum dimensions and weight of fire doors that a closer can effectively close and keep closed.
How can you prevent fire doors from slamming shut?
To prevent a fire door from slamming, you may need to adjust the closing speed or verify the power size of the closer installed on the fire door. Although regulations mandate fire doors to close fully and securely, door closers can be adjusted to prevent them from slamming shut.
Many self-closing mechanisms allow adjustment to ensure smooth closure without slamming, but if your door closer is still slamming after being adjusted correctly, issues such as fluid loss or incorrect installation might cause this to occur. Regular maintenance and adjustment by a skilled individual are recommended for your fire door closer.
What’s the EN Power Size for a fire door closer?
Fire door closers must match the size and weight of the door, with small, light doors requiring less strength to close properly compared to larger, heavier ones. Door closers are categorised into "EN power sizes" to simplify selection based on the closer's strength or closing force necessary for a specific door. If the required width and weight suggest different power sizes, opt for the higher one to meet your door closer needs.
Please note: Power Size EN3 is the minimum requirement for fire doors that necessitate an automatic door closer, according to EN 1154 regulations. EN1 and EN2 are not suitable for fire doors.
| EN Closing Force Category | Maximum Door Width | Maximum Door Weight |
|---|---|---|
| EN 1 | 750mm | 20kg |
| EN 2 | 850mm | 40kg |
| EN 3 | 950mm | 60kg |
| EN 4 | 1100mm | 80kg |
| EN 5 | 1250mm | 100kg |
| EN 6 | 1400mm | 120kg |
| EN 7 | 1600mm | 160kg |
