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Frequently asked questions
Answer:
Your Sunbrella awning fabric should be cleaned regularly before substances such as dirt, roof particles, and the like accumulate and become embedded in the fabric. The fabric can be cleaned easily with mild soap and water, while still attached to your home. Click here to download detailed cleaning instructions. Or if you prefer, we’re happy to recommend an awning cleaning service to clean the awning for you. Call us for a recommendation!
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The pitch is the angle of fall made by the front bar of an awning. The pitch determines how much water may puddle on the awning when the awning is fully extended. The less pitch an awning has, the more impact rain will have on the awning. All awnings will eventually fail if too much water or weight is allowed to collect on them. When set at the minimum pitch, an awning may collect rain even when the fabric is tight. The more pitch you have, the less you will have to worry about rain collecting on the awning. Increasing the pitch, even a few inches, will have a dramatic reduction on the awning’s ability to collect rainwater. The pitch of an awning is not a factor if the awning is retracted during rain events. It’s always best to retract the awning when not in use no matter what the weather forecast. Adjusting the pitch can also provide better shade depending on the angle of the sun in relation to the angle of the awning.
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Sunbrella is not dyed in the conventional sense (which is a common misperception). In fact, we do not use dyes at all. Highly UV resistant pigments are mixed with Sunbrella fibers in a liquid state prior to extrusion. Fiber is then cut, baled, blended, spun into yarn and woven into fabric. Here’s a simple analogy that should point out the difference: conventional dyeing is like a radish in that the color is on the outside, but not on the inside. Cut a radish and you’ll find an outer red skin, but an inner white core. Sunbrella is like a carrot. If you cut a carrot, it’s orange all the way through.
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If your awning retracts on its own, check the following:
· Wind Sensor Activation: If you have a wind sensor installed, it may be detecting movement and automatically retracting the awning. You can adjust the wind sensor sensitivity or replace its batteries if necessary.
· Power Interruption: If the awning loses power briefly, it may reset and retract. Ensure there are no power issues.
· Obstruction Detection: Some motors have built-in safety features that retract the awning if an obstruction is detected.
If issues persist, contact Rainier Shade support.
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· Ensure the remote control batteries are fresh.
· Check if the power source (outlet or circuit breaker) is functioning.
· Try reprogramming your Somfy remote (see manual or video guide).
· If the screen is motorized, listen for any motor sounds. If there is no noise, power may be interrupted.
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· Check if the hem bar is obstructed by debris.
· Reset the motor by disconnecting power for 2 minutes, then reconnecting.
· Ensure the motor is not overheated (some motors shut down temporarily after extended use).
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· Ensure the remote control is working (replace batteries if necessary).
· Check for power at the plug or breaker.
· If using a manual override, try disengaging the motor to lower the shade manually.
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· Check if power is reaching the motor.
· If using a wind sensor, ensure it is not triggering automatic retraction.
· Try using the manual override (if equipped) to retract the awning manually.
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· Verify power to the unit (breaker, GFI, or plug).
· Check the remote or wall switch functionality.
· Inspect for obstructions in the arm mechanism.
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GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter) is a safety device that shuts off power to an outlet if a fault is detected. To reset:
1. Locate the GFI outlet (often near outdoor or bathroom plugs).
2. Press the “RESET” button firmly.
3. Test the outlet by plugging in another device.
If the power is not restored, check your home’s circuit breaker.
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Yes! Rainier Shade provides on-site service for troubleshooting, repairs, and maintenance. Contact customer support for scheduling.
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Rainier primarily services its own products but may be able to assist with other brands depending on the issue.
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Service costs vary based on location and type of service needed. Contact us for pricing details.
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Service availability ranges from next-day to several weeks, depending on call volume.