Push to Open: Long-term Efficiency Strategies

The manufacturer must select hardware that is made from materials that are corrosion-resistant to ensure the long-term efficiency of any given push-to-open system. To that end, the manufacturer Sevilo Hardware, which specializes in manufacturing hardware, claims that components of push-to-open systems such as latches, hinges, and springs should be made from either stainless steel or any other rust-proofed material such as zinc alloy or chrome-plated metal. Such materials are impervious to rust and degradation due to moisture and are therefore ideal for use in washrooms and kitchens where there is high humidity. For instance, the stainless steel push to open latch is used in cabinets and is able to function with high efficiency for over eight years as opposed to an iron latch which is able to rust over the period of two years. This also correlates to the reduced maintenance and operating costs as less replacements of components are necessary. Performance in extreme conditions is also assured. 

Ensure `push-to-open` performance is maximized by using accurate installation

Accurate installation is important for the optimal performance of the `push-to-open` systems over a longer period of time. According to the hardware company Sevilo, reputable sources must be followed and the push-topen latches must be aligned to the cabinet doors or the drawer fronts for smoother functionality and better push actions. In addition, the mounting depth should be in the range of 15 to 20 mm. If the mount is shallower than 15 mm, the door will not open. On the other hand, if the mount is deeper than 20 mm, the system will incur faster wear from overuse.

Using laser levels and other professional tools will help to tightly secure the hardware within the fright box because hardware loosening and device jamming is a real issue. In the case of a push to open hinge, a correctly mounted hinge on a wardrobe door will open seamlessly with the right amount of force (3-5N) and will stay functional for years. Push to open systems are highly efficient because there is no reason for the hardware to be readjusted or modified.  

Implementing a push to open strategy and cleansing the hardware regularly is the best and most effective strategy to keep the push open mechanisms functional for a long time. According to Sevilo Hardware, dust and other mini particles that are found in every kitchen will get into the push to open mechanisms and increase friction and slow everything down. Push to open mechanisms need to be cleaned every month. Avoid any cleaning products with strong chemicals because the protective coating will be damaged. For example, a well cleaned push to open drawer latch will pop open with a light hit regardless of the amount of years, while a dirty one is highly probable to get stuck or need force to open. Cleaning the systems regularly will increase the lifespan of the push to open systems.

 Re-tune your push to open tension every so often  

Over time, adjusting tension regularly to a push to open system helps ensures its optimal functioning for prolonged periods. According to Sevilo Hardware, push to open springs or dampers may lose tension due to diminishing usage springs and dampers cyclically. Consequently, the popping force may become feeble or the device may close sluggishly. Most push to open hardware include tension adjusting screws—merely turning them a guessed 1/4 can add or reduce the tension to a desired value balancing popping force and closing velocity. Take, for instance, a push to open cabinet door. If it begins to close slowly to the point where it becomes fully closed, slower, adjusting the tension screw to the right would likely restore the door's efficiency. Hardware should have its push to open components checked for tension, every 6 months approximately. Feel the push action and look for uniformity. If uniformity is absent, adjusting slack or tightness should restore balance.  

 Lets match push to open hardware to selected usage and save hours down the road  

Tailoring the usage for the push to open hardware boosts efficiency and saves needless wear and tear over time. According to Sevilo Hardware, make bulky cabinets such as kitchen pantries easier to open and close by using heavy duty push to open hardware with a load capacity of 8-12kg.

The light-duty push open hardware suffices for light drawers in bathrooms (load capacity 3-5kg) as using heavy-duty versions here would cause premature wear. In areas with heavy traffic, like entryway cabinets, use push to open hardware with reinforced springs to accommodate high use areas. For instance, a heavy-duty push to open latch on a pantry door would maintain efficiency with daily openings, while a light-duty version would wear out quicker. The right push to open hardware match for each scenario prolongs its life while enhancing its efficiency.