The Dynasty Hardware 8500 Series Commercial Grade 1 Automatic Door Closer is a high-performance hydraulic door closer designed for both metal and wood doors in high-traffic settings. Engineered from Grade 1 certified heavy-duty cast aluminum, it is proven to withstand over two million test cycles, ensuring exceptional durability and reliability. This non-handed door closer is universally adaptable, allowing for regular arm, top-jamb, or parallel arm installations, and is an ideal replacement for Norton 8500 series models.
This advanced door closer features a standard adjustable back-check function that prevents door slamming, along with two separate regulating valves that allow precise adjustments to closing and latching speeds. With a closer body length of 12-3/4 inches and a horizontal screw pattern set 12 inches center-to-center, it meets ANSI 156.4 Grade 1 standards and is UL listed for fire door assemblies. Designed with a full plastic cover, it is also barrier-free and ADA compliant, offering reduced spring power to facilitate easier door opening for handicapped or elderly users. The unit comes factory preset to size 3 and can be adjusted from size 1 through 6 to accommodate doors weighing between 40 and 240 pounds.
Below is an in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of the LYNN HARDWARE Automatic Door Closer based on multiple user experiences and reviews. This detailed discussion highlights the key benefits and a few minor drawbacks, with the advantages overwhelmingly outweighing the negatives. The analysis is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the product’s performance, installation, and overall value for various commercial and residential applications.
Pros
- Exceptional Build Quality and Durability
Users consistently report that the door closer is extremely well made and built to last. Constructed from heavy-duty materials such as US26D satin chrome-plated cast aluminum and a wrought steel arm, the closer exhibits a robust design that instills confidence in its longevity. One reviewer noted that it looks and feels like it will last forever, projecting a sense of reliability that is crucial for high-traffic entrances. Its ability to endure over two million test cycles ensures that even in demanding environments—such as storefronts, schools, or busy offices—the unit will continue to perform reliably for many years. - Versatile and Universal Application
The door closer is designed to be non-handed, meaning it can be installed on either left- or right-handed doors. This universal design, along with compatibility for regular arm, top-jamb, or parallel arm mounting, allows for great flexibility. Users have installed the closer on a wide range of doors, including metal, wood, and glass. This adaptability makes it an excellent replacement for older models like the Norton 8500 series, and its ability to work with doors weighing between 40 and 240 pounds means that it meets a broad range of application needs—from light interior doors to heavy commercial ones. - Ease of Installation (Once Familiar with the Instructions)
Several users have emphasized that, although the installation instructions can be challenging for beginners, the installation process itself is straightforward once one determines which part of the instructions applies to their door type. Experienced users and contractors report that the unit comes with all the necessary hardware, including multiple types of bolts and brackets, making it relatively simple to install. Many have installed it in as little as 15–20 minutes, and even first-time installers have noted that with a little extra time to decipher the instructions, the process becomes manageable. - Multiple Adjustable Features for Customized Operation
One of the major strengths of this door closer is its high degree of adjustability. The unit features two separate regulating valves, allowing users to fine-tune both the closing and latching speeds, as well as the backcheck function. This flexibility ensures that the door can close slowly and quietly, preventing slamming while still ensuring a secure latch. For applications in which gentle closing is important—such as on doors frequently used by elderly or disabled individuals—this adjustability is a critical benefit. Users have also appreciated the preset settings (factory preset to size 3) which can be further adjusted to match specific door weights and usage patterns. - Quiet and Controlled Operation
Numerous reviews highlight that the door closer operates quietly and effectively dampens the force of the door’s closure. The ability to adjust the closing speed and the secondary closure force for the final inches of movement ensures that the door does not slam, which is not only more pleasant but also less damaging to the door and frame over time. In high-traffic environments where noise is a concern, this quiet operation is a significant advantage. The backcheck function further enhances this by ensuring that doors do not swing open too quickly, adding to overall safety and comfort. - Aesthetic Appeal and Streamlined Design
The door closer is noted for its sleek, modern appearance. Users appreciate that it has a sharp, streamlined look compared to many bulky alternatives on the market. Its design allows it to blend seamlessly with a variety of architectural styles—from modern storefronts to contemporary office buildings—without detracting from the overall visual appeal of the space. This aesthetic quality makes it a popular choice among architects and designers who value both form and function in their hardware. - Compliance with Industry Standards and Certifications
The product meets ANSI/BHMA A156.4 certification and is UL listed for fire door assemblies, which ensures it complies with strict safety and performance standards. This level of certification provides reassurance that the door closer is suitable for commercial use and has been rigorously tested to withstand heavy usage and environmental challenges. For institutions or public spaces where compliance with safety standards is non-negotiable, this product is an excellent choice. - Enhanced Safety and Accessibility Features
The unit is barrier-free (BF) and ADA compliant, designed with reduced spring power to facilitate easier door opening for handicapped or elderly users. This is particularly beneficial in public buildings and facilities where accessibility is paramount. The ability to offer smooth operation while still ensuring a secure closure enhances overall building safety and meets modern accessibility standards, thereby making the product suitable for a wide range of users. - Positive Long-Term Performance
Several users have replaced older door closers that failed within a year with this model, and the feedback has been uniformly positive. Many report that after months of use in high-traffic environments—whether on storefronts, interior doors, or garage doors—the door closer continues to perform flawlessly. This consistency in performance over time is critical for both commercial and residential installations where reliability is key. - Cost-Effectiveness Over Time
While the initial cost may be higher than that of lower-end alternatives, many reviewers emphasize that the durability and performance of the LYNN HARDWARE door closer justify the investment. Users have noted that cheaper door closers often require frequent replacement or adjustments, leading to higher overall costs. In contrast, the longevity and minimal maintenance requirements of this unit make it a cost-effective solution in the long run, offering significant savings on repair and replacement expenses. - Comprehensive Installation Kit and Customer Support
The product comes with a complete installation kit that includes various types of bolts, screws, and mounting brackets designed to accommodate different door configurations. This attention to detail minimizes the need for additional purchases and simplifies the installation process. Moreover, several customers have praised the manufacturer’s customer support, noting that inquiries are responded to promptly and helpfully. This reliable support can be especially valuable for those new to door closer installations or facing specific installation challenges. - Versatile Mounting Options
With three different mounting methods available—regular arm, top jamb, and parallel arm—the door closer can be tailored to fit almost any door setup. This versatility allows it to be used on a wide range of door types and sizes, making it an ideal replacement option across various applications. The ability to adjust and fine-tune the mounting method to suit the door’s specific requirements further enhances its appeal to both contractors and DIY installers. - Improved Energy Efficiency and Operational Control
By ensuring a smooth and controlled door closure, the unit helps reduce wear and tear on the door mechanism and frame, which can lead to lower energy consumption over time. The precise control over closing speeds means that the door operates more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of drafts and heat loss in commercial settings. This improved operational control translates to both enhanced performance and energy savings, which can be a significant advantage in large facilities. - User Testimonials and Repeat Purchases
The door closer has garnered a strong reputation among users, with many expressing satisfaction that leads them to repurchase the product for multiple installations. Repeat purchases and high ratings indicate that customers consistently find the product to be reliable and effective. Such positive testimonials are a strong indicator of overall quality and performance, adding to the product’s credibility in the market. - Environmental Resilience
Users report that the door closer maintains consistent performance even in extreme weather conditions or varying temperatures. Its robust design and high-quality materials allow it to operate reliably whether exposed to the cold or heat, which is essential for exterior applications or locations with fluctuating climates. This resilience ensures that the product will perform reliably in both commercial and residential settings over an extended period.
Cons
- Complexity in Installation Instructions
One common drawback mentioned by users is that the installation instructions can be somewhat complex and difficult to decipher—especially for first-time installers. The documentation may include numerous figures, numbers, and lines that are not well explained, making it challenging for individuals who are not professional contractors. While the product is built for durability and high performance, the learning curve during installation might be steeper for those without prior experience. This complexity can result in extra time being required to understand the correct installation process, though many users report that once they figure out the instructions, the installation itself is straightforward. - Initial Setup Challenges for New Installations
Several reviewers indicated that replacing an old unit is much easier than performing a new installation. When used as a replacement, the mounting holes and alignment are already familiar, but a completely new installation may require additional effort to ensure that the correct parts of the instructions are followed. This can lead to confusion and delays during the initial setup phase, particularly if the installer is unfamiliar with the nuances of commercial door closer systems. However, once installed, the unit performs reliably, and these initial challenges are largely overcome. - Weight and Handling Concerns During Installation
Although the product’s weight (approximately 7.4 pounds) contributes to its durability and robustness, some users have noted that this weight can be a minor inconvenience during installation, especially if the installer is working alone or in tight spaces. The weight, combined with the complexity of aligning the mounting hardware, may require additional assistance or tools. This is a relatively minor drawback when compared to the overall strength and performance of the unit, but it is worth mentioning for those who may have physical constraints or limited installation resources. - Potential for Misinterpretation of Specifications
A few users mentioned that the model numbers or dimensions can sometimes be confusing, particularly when comparing different versions or replacements. For example, customers accustomed to a previous model might find slight variations in dimensions or settings that require careful verification before purchase. This potential for misinterpretation can lead to installation issues if the wrong specifications are assumed, but it is mitigated by thorough pre-installation research and consultation with customer support.
Conclusion
Overall, the LYNN HARDWARE Automatic Door Closer is a top-of-the-line solution engineered for durability, versatility, and precision in high-traffic environments. Its robust construction using high-grade materials, combined with advanced adjustable features for closing speed, latching, and backcheck, makes it a reliable choice for both commercial and residential applications. Users appreciate its universal, non-handed design that allows for multiple mounting options and easy adaptation to various door types—whether on metal storefronts, heavy glass doors, or interior office spaces.
While the installation instructions may pose a challenge for non-professional users due to their complexity and lack of detailed guidance on adjustable settings, the overall benefits—such as quiet operation, excellent durability, safety compliance, and versatile functionality—far outweigh these minor drawbacks. The product consistently receives high praise for its performance, ease of use once understood, and its ability to provide a secure, controlled door closure even in demanding, high-traffic environments. Furthermore, the responsive customer support and comprehensive installation kit contribute significantly to user satisfaction and confidence in the product.
For anyone seeking a long-lasting, high-performance door closer that meets rigorous industry standards and offers extensive adjustability for precise operation, the LYNN HARDWARE Automatic Door Closer represents an excellent investment. Despite some initial challenges with installation instructions, the device’s proven durability, superior functionality, and positive real-world performance make it a standout choice in the realm of commercial door hardware. In summary, this door closer is highly recommended for its ability to deliver reliable, quiet, and efficient performance over many years of use, making it a critical component in any high-traffic or safety-conscious environment.