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Is your motorized, retractable awning refusing to open? Is the awning randomly retracting? Maybe the awning has stopped responding to the remote even though you changed the batteries.
While motorized, retractable awnings are a great way to provide shade when you want to get outside, when not in use, make sure to properly store it. We've got another blog post with some tips, here.
There are a few reasons why your retractable awning may be malfunctioning. Here's how to fix them.
The Wind Sensor Batteries are Low
If your awning is randomly retracting, it's probably because the batteries in the wind sensor are low. All you need to do is replace them. Try this BEFORE you go about replacing the remote batteries, as the wind sensor is usually the culprit. Replacing the batteries will wipe the connection to the motor, meaning you'll have to reestablish connection.
You Unplugged the Awning
Kudos to you for saving energy. However, in this case, an awning needs a constant power supply to maintain a connection to the remote. Additionally, the motor is programmed to know when the awning should stop (known as "motor limits"). If you cut your awning's power supply, you will erase these settings and need to reprogram everything in order to reestablish the connection so that your awning will extend.
The "Elbow" of the Awning Sticks Out When Closed
This is a sign that the pivot joint at the front rail bar is slipping. A one- or two-inch adjustment will realign it.
(Pictured above: The elbow, when locked, will have a slight bend. This is ok.)
The Motor Stopped Responding
We get it; you want to show off your new awning! Nothing's worse than it seeming to die on you in the middle of a demo. Not to worry and do not panic; it's not broken. Sometimes, when placed under continual and consecutive use, the motor will overheat and place itself in a non-responsive cool-down mode. It lasts for about 15 minutes, and then you're free to start using it again.
Window-ology is a local, Diamond Certified business in downtown Pleasanton, CA. We specialize in custom blinds, shades, shutters, drapery, and motorized, retractable awnings. Contact us for a complimentary consultation.
We are the exclusive Northern California dealer for SunSetter Awnings, the number one manufacturer in the United States. We are an authorized dealer for Hunter Douglas, Norman Window Fashions, KE, and others.