One of the most frequent questions asked by users who are about to fit motorised awnings relates to possible problems with the electric system: what are the possible issues? How can we prevent them? Is there a perfect, trouble-free system? We do our best to reply to these questions promptly and as simply as possible.
Firstly, what are the main problems encountered with motorised awnings? One of the most widespread problems is failure of the awning to roll up properly, or locking of the arms in an intermediate position. In both cases, the problem must only be dealt with by specialist technicians, so that the actual causes can be identified and the proper solutions implemented.
Other problems may relate to motorised awnings that are managed remotely, due to malfunctions in the remote control or incorrect system settings in the app.
Finally, the most common types of maintenance relate to stains on the fabric and the possible formation of mould if the awning has not been used for a long time.
How does a motorised awning work?
As you can see, malfunctions can involve many aspects of the structure and motor, which in themselves are fairly simple: a motor allows the awning fabric to be opened and rolled up again (with all the possible intermediate positions) using special arms, so as to make management of the awnings themselves fast, intelligent, practical and less hard work.
The system can be operated using a wall-mounted switch or, in an even easier way, using a special remote control or an app, thanks to an integrated home automation system.
On average, how long does an awning last?
It is harder to indicate the average lifespan of a motorised awning. This is because there are so many variables that have an influence on its resistance to ageing: firstly the technical quality of each component, starting from the motor, which must be suitably sized and of the right power, and moving on to the support structure, assembly and installation of the system, and finally whether it has been properly used.
From this brief list it is possible to understand how every phase must be studied and carried out as well as possible, using true professionals in this sector (designers, suppliers, installation technicians, etc.), and ensuring that proper periodic maintenance is carried out to check the system’s state of health.
These precautions will help prevent the most common problems.
Which are the most common problems with motorised awnings?
As mentioned, automatic rolling up of the awning canvas may sometimes be carried out incorrectly, causing puckering or movement of the canvas.
Another inconvenience is partial or total blockage of the motorisation system, preventing the awning from being fully opened or closed. This not only causes a lack of service, but may also highlight a more serious malfunction. If the mechanism does not block, but moves too slowly and with difficulty, the choice of motor should probably be reviewed, as it may be undersized for the actual needs. This also applies when the mechanism makes unusual noises when extending and retracting: it is best not to force the arms and assess the malfunction carefully.
According to the type of malfunction, it is always advisable to call a suitable technician, to restore normal operation and avoid similar problems in the future.
External awnings also tend to suffer from the weather, becoming stained or, if little used and exposed in particularly damp areas, suffering from mould: here again, targeted action by specialists in this sector help to guarantee proper operation and a long life for the motorised awnings.
Practical advice on maintaining your motorised awning
Is there a quick way of carrying out proper maintenance of your motorised awning? It is hard to give an exact answer to this question, but an essential practical recommendation is to avoid DIY solutions, at least when the problem is a technical one.
This means that proper operation of the system is not compromised, which would make the situation worse. Calling a professional technician means you will not only identify the cause of the malfunction, but also find the best solution.
Another useful piece of advice is to clean all parts of the awning thoroughly, at least two or three times a year, making sure it is all in order and there is no mould, opening it from time to time just to test the motorised mechanisms and ensure everything is working properly.