Solera Awning Motor

Everything You Need to Know About Solera Awning Motors

Looking to replace or upgrade the motor on your Solera awning? Searching for tips on installing and troubleshooting these motors? You’ve come to the right place!

Solera awnings are popular patio covers that provide shade and protection from the elements. A key component is the electric motor that opens and closes the awning. Like any mechanical part, Solera motors can eventually fail and need to be replaced.

This in-depth guide will cover everything you need to know about buying and installing a new Solera awning motor, including:

• Where to buy Solera motors
• How to replace a faulty motor
• Motor troubleshooting tips
• Installation instructions
• Reset procedures
• Costs
• Warranty information

So whether you’re looking to replace a burned-out motor or upgrade to a more powerful one, read on for useful advice to get your Solera awning running again!

Where to Buy a Solera Awning Motor

The best place to purchase a replacement Solera awning motor is directly from the manufacturer. This ensures you get the right motor for your specific awning model. Some options include:

• Order from Solera’s website – they offer several motor models for their patio covers.
• Call Solera’s customer service line to order a motor – their experts can ensure you get an exact match.
• Visit a Solera dealer – local awning specialists may stock motors or can special order them.

You can also find Solera motors through some online retailers like Amazon or WebstaurantStore. Check that any motor you buy is specifically advertised as a direct replacement for Solera awnings.

Solera Awning Motor Costs

Expect to pay $150 to $300+ for a new Solera awning motor. Pricing varies by motor power, speed, and source. More heavy-duty or high-speed motors will be pricier than standard ones. And sourcing directly from Solera may come with added dealer markups.

Here are some average Solera motor costs from leading suppliers:

• Solera standard tubular motors – $185 to $250
• Solera high speed motors – $225 to $350
• Solera heavy duty motors – $275 to $400

To save money, look for motors advertised as “universal fit” options as they can costs $50-100 less. Just ensure any universal motor you buy matches the specifications and measurements of your original.

It’s well worth paying extra for an OEM Solera motor to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Cheaper generic motors may fail quicker. Spending a little more now will save you money and hassle in the long run.

How to Replace a Solera Awning Motor

Once you’ve sourced a new Solera awning motor, it’s time to tackle the replacement job. Here are step-by-step instructions:

1. Disconnect power to the awning

Switch off electrical supply at the circuit breaker. This ensures the awning stays safely powered down as you work.

2. Retract the awning

Use the manual hand crank to fully retract the awning. This provides access to take down the canopy.

3. Detach the canopy

Remove screws along the front bar to detach the fabric canopy. Carefully roll it up and set aside.

4. Remove the motor cover

Take off the plastic motor housing to expose the interior gears and wiring.

5. Disconnect the motor

Label then disconnect the motor wires. Also detach any drive gear connections.

6. Unmount the motor

Remove bolts or screws securing the motor. Save hardware for reinstallation.

7. Install the new motor

Position the replacement motor and attach using the same hardware. Reconnect wiring and gears.

8. Reattach canopy

Roll out canopy and re-secure to front awning bar. Make sure fabric is taut.

9. Test operation

Turn power back on and use controls to extend and retract awning. Ensure it runs smoothly.

Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for any unique steps for your awning model. Take care when handling canopy fabric. And check for any leaks after re-attaching the canopy.

Troubleshooting Solera Awning Motor Issues

Solera awning motors can develop issues over time that affect operation. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips:

Motor won’t run

Check circuit breaker – reset if tripped
Test connections for loose wires
Inspect gears and switches for damage
Replace burned out motor capacitor
Motor runs slowly

Lubricate gears with awning lubricant spray
Check voltage is 120V to motor
Replace worn out motor brushes
Motor hums but doesn’t run

Bad capacitor – replace motor
Gear disengaged – realign gears
Faulty control switch – test/replace
Noisy motor

Lubricate gears and shafts
Inspect for debris in gears
Worn out carbon brushes need replacing
Motor only runs one direction

Replace failed capacitor
Inspect control switch contacts
Awning stops mid-cycle

Reset motor limit switches
Adjust motor torque as needed
Be sure to completely disconnect power when troubleshooting motors and electrical issues. Test components safely before reconnecting power.

How to Install a Solera Replacement Motor

Here are some top tips for smoothly installing a new Solera awning motor:

Carefully compare the old motor with new one. They should have identical specifications for voltage, RPM, torque, etc.
Check that the drive gear on the new motor meshes properly with the awning gears before installing.
Apply a small amount of awning lubricant spray to the motor gears before mounting. This prevents initial sticking.
Pay close attention to wire colors when connecting. Follow any wiring diagram in the owner’s manual.
Program any electronics like limit switches so the motor knows the fully extended/retracted positions.
Run the awning in and out several times once installed. Listen for any dragging or grinding noises.
Consider having an awning specialist handle the motor install if you’re unsure of electrical and mechanical work.
With proper precautions, most homeowners can tackle a Solera motor install themselves. Just take your time and double check connections.

Are Solera Motors Universal?

When shopping for Solera motors, you may come across “universal” replacement options. But are these really compatible?

In short – sometimes. If the specifications like voltage, RPM, torque etc. match your original motor, a universal awning motor may work. They are designed to fit multiple awning brands.

However, the best route is still to purchase a Solera branded motor. This guarantees an exact match for your awning hardware. Universal motors may not sync properly with electronics like limits switches on some models.

You can save $50-100 going with a universal motor. Just be prepared to return it if anything seems off during installation. For a sure fit, a genuine Solera motor is worth the extra cost.

Resetting a Solera Awning Motor

If your Solera awning is not retracting or extending fully, the motor limit switches likely need resetting:

Extend Reset

Manually retract awning 3 feet from housing
Hold “Extend” button for 20 seconds
Let motor run until fully extended
Repeat steps to reset close limit
Retract Reset

Extend awning 3 feet out
Hold “Retract” button for 20 seconds
Let motor run until fully retracted
Repeat to reset extend limit
This essentially re-programs the motor’s electronic limits. Solera motors may require periodic resetting to operate properly through all seasons.

Solera Awning Motor Warranties

New Solera motors will come with a manufacturer’s warranty, typically 1-5 years. This covers defects and premature failure under normal use.

Warranty periods vary by motor model and where purchased. Directly through Solera, expect at least a 2 year warranty. Dealers or online sellers may offer shorter coverage.

To qualify for warranty coverage, you’ll need proof of purchase like a receipt. Photos/video of the damaged motor can also help support warranty claims.

Solera warrants motors against failure but not general wear and tear. Issues caused by improper installation would not be covered. Contact Solera with any warranty questions before purchasing and installing a replacement motor.

How Long Should a Solera Motor Last?

With proper maintenance, a quality Solera awning motor should operate reliably for 5-8 years or longer. Higher-cycle commercial motors may need replacing sooner.

Factors impacting Solera motor lifespan:

Motor quality – cheap generic motors fail faster
Usage – moderate operation prolongs motor life
Climate conditions – cold winters or hot summers add strain
Maintenance – regular lubrication and cleaning extends lifespan
Power surges – voltage spikes can damage motors
Signs of aging to look for are noisy operation, slow response, and intermittent stopping. But well-cared-for motors can still operate smoothly for 10+ years.

Different Types of Solera Awning Motors

Solera uses several different motor designs and models to suit specific awning types and applications:

Tubular Motors – Compact and lightweight with integrated gearbox. Used on smaller residential awnings.

Gearbox Motors – Separate gearbox and motor housing. More heavy duty for large awnings.

AC Motors – Run on 110-120 volt AC current from home supply. Most common motor type.

DC Motors – Operate on 12-volt DC power. Used for RV and mobile applications.

High Speed Motors – Faster RPM for quick awning opening. Added convenience.

Heavy Duty Motors – More torque and strength for oversized awnings and frequent use.

Always check your existing motor type before purchasing a replacement. This ensures optimal compatibility and performance with your Solera hardware.

Manually Retracting Solera Awnings

If a Solera awning motor fails, most models can be manually retracted as a temporary solution. This uses an override hand crank included with the awning.

To manually retract:

Remove rubber plug or cap exposing crank shaft
Insert hand crank and turn clockwise
Keep turning crank until awning is fully retracted
Use care not to over-rotate the crank. Stop once awning is fully closed. This method allows you to secure the awning until the motor can be repaired or replaced.

Some larger Solera awnings may prove too difficult to manually operate. You may need to call in an awning specialist to assist with retraction until the motor is functioning again.

Finding Solera Awning Motor Wiring Diagrams

Wiring diagrams are indispensable when installing or replacing Solera motors. They show how to properly connect motor wires to the switch and power supply.

You can find wiring instructions in:

The owner’s manual that came with your awning
Inside the motor compartment or gearbox cover
Printed on the back of the motor or control switch
Request diagrams from Solera customer service
Copying down the diagram or taking photos provides a handy visual reference for wiring. Never connect wires based on color alone. Always follow the diagram.

Thoroughly checking all wiring connections prevents blown fuses, shorts, and other issues when installing a new Solera awning motor.

Solera Awning Motor Power Consumption

How much electricity do Solera awning motors use? Motors draw varying amounts of power depending on:

Motor type – AC vs DC
Power rating – voltage and wattage
Use cycle – short extensions use less power
Here are some estimates for 120V AC Solera motor power consumption:

Small tubular motors – 50-100 watts
Medium duty motors – 100-150 watts
Large gearbox motors – 150-250 watts
Based on average electric costs, operating a Solera awning motor costs just pennies per day. Leaving it open for long periods will use slightly more power. But overall, the motors are quite energy efficient.

Upgrading to a higher wattage Solera motor provides more strength for large awnings. Just ensure your electrical system can handle the increased power demand.

Upgrading Solera Motor Strength

Need more power to operate a large Solera awning? You can upgrade to a higher-torque motor.

Factors to consider:

Awning size – longer awnings need more torque
Awning type – heavy-duty canvas requires more strength
Frequency of use – a frequently used awning should have a stronger motor
Motor RPM – lower RPM motors typically have higher torque
Always choose a replacement Solera motor with equal or higher torque rating than your original. This gives you room to grow if expanding the awning later.

You may also need wiring upgrades to support a more powerful awning motor. Have an electrician ensure your system can handle the electrical demands before installing the upgraded motor.

Finding Aftermarket Solera Motors

In addition to OEM motors from Solera, there are also aftermarket motor options available:

• Third party “direct replacement” Solera motors – designed to match OEM models. Often cheaper.
• Universal awning motors – adjustable to fit different brands if specs match.
• Salvaged Solera motors – used motors from scrapped awnings, more affordable but limited supply.
• Rebuilt/refurbished motors – repairs and restored used motors with new parts.

The trade-off is these aftermarket motors may not match OEM performance and longevity. But if cost is the priority, they provide worthwhile alternatives to genuine Solera motors.

Always confirm compatibility before installing any aftermarket motor. And look for at least a short 90 day warranty on salvaged or refurbished motors.

Maintaining and Lubricating Solera Motors

Regular maintenance keeps Solera motors running smoothly for longer:

Inspect gears yearly for debris/damage
Apply motor lubricating spray annually
Check wires and connections for fraying
Test capacitor and brushes, replace as needed
Wipe down exterior housing and protect from weather
Lubricating the internal motor gears and bushings is essential to prevent binding and friction. Use only plastic-safe awning lubricants, not general household oil or grease.

A yearly application of lubricant spray keeps the gears protected. Motors that sound strained or sluggish need immediate lubrication. This simple maintenance prevents costly repairs down the road.

Common Solera Awning Motor Problems

Despite being quite reliable overall, Solera motors can develop a few common issues with age:

Burnt out capacitors – This motor component helps start the motor. Bad capacitors cause a “humming” noise but no movement.

Sticking gears – Lack of lubrication causes sticky operation. Spraying gearbox with awning lubricant can help free up binding.

Frayed wiring – Electrical cords wear over time. Inspect wires for cracks in insulation and replace damaged connections.

Limit switch failure – These sensors tell the motor when to stop extending or retracting. Reset or replace faulty limit switches.

Bent drive shaft – Damage can cause wobbling and rough operation. The motor shaft may need straightening or replacing.

Catching problems early keeps motors operational. But eventually wear will lead to complete breakdown. Planning for a replacement every 5-8 years prevents getting stranded with a failed awning.

Troubleshooting New Solera Motor Installation

If a newly installed Solera replacement motor isn’t working properly, try these troubleshooting tips:

Reset motor limit switches
Check all wiring connections
Test voltage is 120V at motor
Inspect drive gear mesh – realign if needed
Verify control switch is working
Lubricate gears if noisy operation
Adjust torque limiter clutch if slipping
Doing a bench test before mounting can identify issues with defective motors. If problems persist, contact the motor seller for a warranty exchange.

Conclusion

I hope this comprehensive guide provides tons of useful advice for choosing, installing, and maintaining a Solera awning motor.

Key takeaways:

Direct replacements from Solera ensure optimal compatibility and performance.
Proper wiring and limit switch programming during install prevents problems.
Lubricating gears annually extends the motor’s lifespan.
Look for signs of wear like grinding and sticking to stay ahead of repairs.
Consider upgrades to higher wattage motors for heavy use applications.
Let me know if you have any other Solera awning motor questions! I’m happy to help with additional troubleshooting tips.