Electric Awning Rolling: A Step-By-Step Guide

Electric awnings are a great addition to motorhomes and RVs, providing shade and protection from light rain. They are easy to operate, but there are some safety precautions to consider. For example, they are not designed to withstand high winds and heavy rain, so it is important to retract your awning in bad weather. Before rolling in an electric awning, you should locate the controls, which are usually found on the side of the house or by the door leading to the patio. You should then disengage the motor from its power source, either by remote control or a wall switch. Once you have identified the type of electric awning you have, you can start to crank the lever rod slowly and steadily until the awning begins to close. You can then crank faster at steady intervals until you feel resistance, which indicates that all parts have been properly retracted and locked into place.

Identify the type of electric awning and its controls

Electric awnings can be broadly categorized into two types: fixed and retractable. Fixed awnings are permanently affixed to your home, while retractable awnings can be opened and closed with the press of a button.

Retractable awnings can be further classified into two types: manual and motorized. Manual awnings are operated by hand using a crank and a pulley with chains or cords. Motorized awnings, on the other hand, are electrically powered and can be operated using a remote control or a wall-mounted switch.

Motorized awnings offer a range of control options to suit different needs. Basic controls include a wireless switch with "open", "close", and "favourite" (a preset position) options. More advanced controls include remote controls with wind and sun sensors that can automatically adjust the awning according to weather conditions and your unique settings. For instance, Somfy's Eolis 3D Wirefree RTS vibration sensor can detect wind strength and automatically retract the awning if the wind gets too strong.

Motorized awnings can also be controlled through a secure key box, where a simple turn of the key opens or closes the awning. This option is ideal for commercial properties as the box is tamper-proof and provides extra protection.

Additionally, some motorized awnings can be operated through a mobile app or a wall-mounted touch-sensitive switch, like Somfy's Smoove 1 RTS. This switch is stylish, compact, and can be fixed to the wall without wires.

When choosing a motorized awning, it is important to consider the type of motor and its compatibility with different controls and sensors. Motors can be wireless or wired and are typically powered by electricity or solar energy. Wired systems, such as Simu's wired controller, can track multiple sensors and be hooked to multiple awnings, while wireless motors like those offered by Somfy use Radio Technology Somfy (RTS) for reliable and interference-free communication.

Prepare the awning for rolling

To prepare an electric awning for rolling, start by locating the controls, which are usually found on the side of the house or by the door leading to the patio. You can then disconnect the motor from its power source, either by remote control or a wall switch.

Next, identify the type of electric awning you have so that you can access and utilise its retracting mechanism properly. Look for the lever rod tip and its location in relation to the awning's frame structure. You can then check for any hidden locks by gently pushing down on different parts of the awning; a flashlight may help with this.

Once you have identified the locks, you can start the crank lever process. Insert the lever rod into the corresponding slot in the retracting mechanism to support its manual retraction and reduce wear and tear.

Before rolling up the awning, it is important to clear it of any leaves and debris. This will prevent a build-up of weight over time, as well as stop debris from falling on your head and eyes the next time you open the awning.

Crank the lever rod to start rolling

To roll up an electric awning, you will need to locate the controls, which are usually on the side of the house or by the door leading to the patio. Once you have located the controls, you can start the process of cranking the lever rod.

First, disengage the motor from its power source using either a remote control or a wall switch. Identify the type of electric awning you have so that you can access and utilize its retracting mechanism properly. Look for the lever rod tip and find out where it is located in relation to the awning's frame structure. Check for any hidden locks on your system by gently pushing down on different parts. If necessary, use a flashlight to find and open them before starting the crank lever process.

With all the preparations taken care of, it's time to start cranking the lever rod. Insert the lever rod into its corresponding slot in the retracting mechanism to support its manual retraction and reduce wear and tear during cranking. Start slowly and steadily turn the lever until you see the awning beginning to close. You can crank faster if needed but always at steady intervals for the best results. Keep turning the lever until you feel resistance, indicating that all parts have been properly retracted and locked into place.

Double-check if there are any adjustments or repairs needed for optimal functioning before concluding the process. For example, you may need to adjust the tilt or pitch using knobs on the arms. Additionally, make sure to re-engage the travel locks to prevent the awning from accidentally unrolling.

Check for repairs or adjustments

Before rolling up your electric awning, it's important to inspect it for any necessary repairs or adjustments to ensure it remains in good condition. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through this process:

Begin by carefully unrolling the awning to its full length. Inspect the fabric for any tears, holes, or signs of wear and deterioration. Pay close attention to the edges and seams, as these areas are more prone to damage. If you notice any issues, make a note of their location and size for future repair.

Check the awning arms and frame for any bending, warping, or damage. Ensure that all joints and hinges are secure and properly aligned. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion, especially if your awning is made of metal. If you notice any damage or unusual wear, it may be necessary to replace or reinforce the affected parts.

Examine the awning's roller tube and mechanism. Ensure that it turns smoothly and that the fabric rolls up evenly without any bunching or creasing. Check for any signs of rust or corrosion, especially if the mechanism has been exposed to moisture. Lubricate any moving parts according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear and tear.

Inspect the awning's mounting brackets and fasteners. Ensure that all bolts, screws, and fasteners are tight and secure. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion, and consider applying a suitable lubricant or rust inhibitor to prevent further deterioration. Check the stability of the mounting brackets and ensure that they are firmly attached to the wall or surface.

Finally, test the awning's operation by rolling and unrolling it several times. Observe whether it extends and retracts smoothly and evenly. Listen for any unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking sounds, which could indicate a problem with the mechanism. If you notice any issues, consult the awning's manual for troubleshooting tips or consider seeking professional assistance for more complex repairs.

By regularly inspecting your electric awning and addressing any necessary repairs or adjustments, you can ensure its longevity and maintain its functionality for years to come.

Clean and maintain the awning

To clean and maintain an electric awning, you should follow a few simple steps. Firstly, it is important to clean your awning every two to three months to keep it in good condition. This can be done with a few household items such as a soft-bristled brush, a broom, a garden hose, and a gentle cleaning solution.

Begin by sweeping or brushing away any loose debris, such as leaves, dirt, or cobwebs. If your awning is difficult to reach, use a ladder and check both the top and bottom for debris. You can also use a leaf blower to swiftly remove debris. Once the debris is removed, prepare a cleaning solution. The solution will depend on the material of the awning. For canvas or fabric awnings, use mild dish soap or laundry detergent with lukewarm water. For metal awnings, use a metal cleaning solvent, and for aluminium, use a specific aluminium solvent. Pour the solution into a spray bottle or use a sponge and bucket. Apply the solution to the awning and let it soak for a few minutes.

Next, use your soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the awning, cleaning both the top and bottom. Rinse the awning thoroughly with a garden hose to remove all soap residue, then let the awning air dry completely before rolling it up. Never roll up a wet awning as this can lead to mould and mildew.

In addition to regular cleaning, there are some important maintenance steps to keep your awning in good condition. Lubricate all moving parts at least once a year with a silicone spray. Inspect the awning for any damage, paying close attention to the frame, arms, and mounting apparatus. Keep the awning retracted during heavy rain and winds above 20 mph to prevent damage to the fabric and arms. Trim any nearby shrubbery to prevent leaves and branches from falling onto the awning, as leaves contain an acid that can stain and damage the fabric.

Frequently asked questions