Carefree of Colorado
Service Manual
M
ANUAL
P
ATIO
A
WNINGS
052876-301r5
13
S
TANDARD
M
AINTENANCE
Maintaining the Carefree Manual Patio Awning is easy. Just follow these basic steps:
Always operate the awning according to the instructions.
Periodically check that the fasteners are tight. Tighten if necessary.
Keep the awning fabric and arms clean.
F
ABRIC
C
ARE
CAUTION
D
O NOT USE OIL BASED CLEANERS OR ANY CAUSTIC
,
GRANULATED
,
OR ABRASIVE TYPE
CLEANERS ON YOUR
C
AREFREE PRODUCT
.
1. One of the best ways to keep the fabric looking good and to delay the need for deep or vigorous
cleanings is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This practice will help prevent dirt
from becoming deeply imbedded in the fabric. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be
needed every two to three years.
2. When it’s time for a thorough cleaning, the fabric can be cleaned while still on an awning frame.
For Vinyl Fabric – Use a soft brush and warm water with soap.
For Acrylic Fabric – Use a stiff brush and warm water with soap.
3. When cleaning the fabric, it is important to observe the following:
Always use a natural soap, never detergent.
Water should be cold to lukewarm, never more than 100
F.
Air-dry only. Never apply heat to the fabric.
Always allow the fabric to dry thoroughly before rolling up the awning.
Mildew
Mildew is a fungus growth that looks like dirt. Vinyl coated polyester fabrics are mildew resistant because
of a chemical biocide in the vinyl coating. Under ordinary conditions, mildew will not appear. However, in
areas where high temperature and humidity are common, mildew can be a problem and required the
material to be washed more frequently. Thoroughly rinse the fabric with clean water and allow to air dry
completely before rolling up the awning.
Pooling
When water collects on the top of the fabric, this is known as "pooling". This can occur during inclement
weather or if a running air conditioner discharges over the awning. The water is dumped when the awning
is retracted. It is recommended that if water accumulates on the top, briefly retract the awning to dump the
water. This will help prevent the fabric from stretching or distorting.
Leaking
On vinyl canopies, side hems and poly cords are stitched in with a sewing machine. On occasion, this stitching may
allow water to seep or leak through the stitches. This is normal and not a defect covered by warranty. Treat the
seams with a quality seam sealer.
A
RM
C
ARE
The best method of keeping the arms and braces operating smoothly is to clean them. Dirt and debris can
cause the channels not to slide easily.
Periodically wash out the channels with running water (i.e. a hose) to keep them clean. If the channels still
do not slide easily, lightly spray the inside of the channels with a dry silicone lubricant, after the arms have
been cleaned and dried thoroughly.
Hardware Maintenance
Replace any parts that become damaged.
Periodically check all mounting hardware, screws, lags, etc., and re-tighten when necessary.
Locking knobs should be periodically loosened and removed then sprayed with a dry lubricant to
prevent binding and locking.
