Electric awnings are a fantastic addition to any outdoor space, offering shade and protection at the touch of a button.
But like any investment in your home, you might be wondering how long you can expect your electric awning to last.
The good news is that with proper care, an electric awning can provide you with many years of reliable service.
The Lifespan of an Electric Awning
On average, electric awnings last between 10 to 15 years.
Several factors can influence this range, including the quality of materials, frequency of use, and how well the awning is maintained.
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Quality of Materials
- Frame and Structure: The frame, usually made of aluminium or steel, is designed to withstand the elements. High-quality frames are often powder-coated to resist rust and corrosion, contributing to a longer lifespan.
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Fabric: The fabric used in electric awnings is typically a durable, weather-resistant material like acrylic or polyester. However, constant exposure to the sun, rain, and wind can eventually cause fading or wear. Some fabrics are more resilient than others, so opting for a high-quality fabric can help extend the life of your awning.
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Motor and Electrical Components
- The motor is the heart of your electric awning, allowing you to extend and retract it with ease. These motors are generally built to last, but like any mechanical component, they can experience wear and tear over time, especially if the awning is used frequently. Most motors are designed to last at least as long as the awning itself, but it’s essential to keep an eye on its performance and address any issues promptly.
- The motor is the heart of your electric awning, allowing you to extend and retract it with ease. These motors are generally built to last, but like any mechanical component, they can experience wear and tear over time, especially if the awning is used frequently. Most motors are designed to last at least as long as the awning itself, but it’s essential to keep an eye on its performance and address any issues promptly.
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Electric Awning
While 10 to 15 years is a solid lifespan, there are several steps you can take to ensure your electric awning lasts as long as possible:
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Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
- Cleaning the fabric and frame regularly helps prevent the build-up of dirt, mold, and mildew, which can degrade materials over time.
Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean the fabric, and make sure to rinse thoroughly. For the frame, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
- Cleaning the fabric and frame regularly helps prevent the build-up of dirt, mold, and mildew, which can degrade materials over time.
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Timely Repairs
- Address any minor issues, such as small tears in the fabric or loose bolts in the frame, as soon as they arise.
Ignoring these can lead to more significant problems down the road, potentially shortening the lifespan of your awning.
- Address any minor issues, such as small tears in the fabric or loose bolts in the frame, as soon as they arise.
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Proper Usage
- Avoid using the awning in extreme weather conditions. High winds, heavy rain, or snow can put unnecessary strain on the motor and fabric. If you live in an area prone to such weather, it’s a good idea to retract the awning when not in use.
- Avoid using the awning in extreme weather conditions. High winds, heavy rain, or snow can put unnecessary strain on the motor and fabric. If you live in an area prone to such weather, it’s a good idea to retract the awning when not in use.
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Motor Care
- Pay attention to how the motor is functioning. If you notice it struggling or making unusual noises, it may be time for a service check. Regularly lubricating the moving parts can also help keep the motor running smoothly.
- Pay attention to how the motor is functioning. If you notice it struggling or making unusual noises, it may be time for a service check. Regularly lubricating the moving parts can also help keep the motor running smoothly.
When to Consider Replacement
Even with the best care, there will come a time when your electric awning might need replacing.
If the fabric is severely worn, the frame is damaged, or the motor is no longer reliable, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new awning rather than continually repairing the old one.
Interested in a manual version? Check out our retractable outdoor awnings.
By following these maintenance tips and being mindful of your awning’s usage, you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of your electric awning for many years. Whether you’re protecting your patio from the sun or creating a cosy outdoor living space, an electric awning is a durable and valuable addition to any home.