SunSetter Somfy - User Manual

Questions and Answers

C
Craig RodriguezJul 29, 2025
What to do if SunSetter Somfy Home Automation awning doesn't close when it rains?
- E
  Eugene ButlerJul 29, 2025
  If your SunSetter Home Automation awning isn't closing when it rains, several factors could be at play. First, the sensor might need more time to react; refer to the "Sensor Time Delays" table on page 3 for typical delays. Second, rain sensing might be disabled; open the hatch and ensure switch 1 (Rain Sensor switch) is in the up position. Third, the rain sensitivity might be excessively high; adjust the sensitivity by opening the hatch and following the guide in Figure 6 on page 2. Lastly, the sensor could be uncharged; place the sensor face up in direct sunlight for at least 10 minutes to charge.
M
Mrs. Angela BrownAug 8, 2025
Why does my SunSetter Home Automation awning open and close too often?
- M
  Matthew LeeAug 8, 2025
  If your SunSetter Home Automation awning opens or closes too often, the sensitivity might be set too low. To adjust it, open the hatch and follow the guide in Figure 6 on page 2.
L
Lindsay BaldwinAug 17, 2025
How to fix SunSetter Home Automation LED status lights not blinking?
- R
  robin13Aug 17, 2025
  If the LED status lights on your SunSetter Home Automation sensor aren't blinking, it's likely that the sensor isn't charged. To resolve this, ensure the sensor is positioned face up in direct sunlight for at least 10 minutes to charge.

Summary

Mount Sensor

Wall Mount

Instructions for attaching the sensor using a wall mounting plate and screws.

Pole Mount

Instructions for attaching the sensor to a pole using zip ties.

Deleting Sensor from Motors Memory

Recommended Annual Maintenance

The Somfy® Rain Sensor is a wireless, solar-powered radio transmitter designed to automatically close SunSetter Awnings during rain. It is compatible with SunSetter Awnings operated by a Remote Transmitter. The sensor operates within a temperature range of 32°F (0°C) to 140°F (60°C). It is important to note that standing water, snow, or frost will not activate the sensor, and it will not protect the awning from heavy snow. If such weather conditions are expected, the awning should remain closed.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Somfy® Rain Sensor is to detect rainfall and transmit a signal to a compatible SunSetter Awning, causing it to close automatically. This feature provides convenience and protection for the awning, preventing damage from unexpected rain. The sensor is solar-powered, ensuring continuous operation without the need for battery replacement, provided it receives adequate sunlight. For users interested in additional sun sensing capabilities, the manual suggests contacting Somfy® directly to purchase a Somfy® Soliris Remote, as this functionality is not included with the Rain Sensor itself.

Important Technical Specifications:

Compatibility: Works with SunSetter Awnings operated by a Remote Transmitter.
Power Source: Solar-powered.
Operating Temperature Range: 32°F (0°C) to 140°F (60°C).
Rain Detection: Detects rainfall to trigger awning closure. Does not activate for standing water, snow, or frost.
Wireless Protocol: Utilizes a radio transmitter for communication with the awning motor.

Usage Features:

Automatic Awning Closure: Automatically closes the awning when rain is detected, protecting it from water damage.
Adjustable Sensitivity: The sensor features a "Rain Threshold Dial" allowing users to adjust its sensitivity to rain.
- Factory Default (12 o'clock position): Detects light rain.
- More Sensitive (turn left): Detects very light rain, heavy mist, or heavy condensation.
- Less Sensitive (turn right): Detects very heavy rain.
Demo Mode: A special mode for testing the rain sensing functionality without standard wait times. In Demo Mode, the awning closes immediately upon simulated rainfall and re-opens after 3 seconds when the sensor is dry. This mode times out after 2 minutes or can be exited by pressing the Demo button again.
Normal Operation Mode: After Demo Mode, the sensor resumes normal operation. In this mode, the awning closes immediately upon rain detection. Once rain stops, the sensor waits approximately 15 minutes before unlocking and re-opening the awning. This time delay ensures that weather conditions have truly changed before the awning re-opens.
Programming: The sensor must be programmed to the awning motor. This involves pressing a programming button on the remote control until the awning "jogs" (a short back-and-forth movement), then pressing a programming button on the sensor until the awning jogs again.
Charging: The sensor requires at least 10 minutes of direct sunlight to achieve an operational charge. For most efficient charging, the hatch should be open, and all configuration switches moved to the OFF position.
Mounting Options: The sensor can be mounted to a wall, gutter, or pole, offering flexibility in placement to ensure maximum exposure to rain.
- Wall Mount: Uses two round head wood screws to attach the mounting plate to the wall.
- Pole Mount: Uses two zip ties (not provided) to secure the mounting plate to a pole.
- Gutter Mount: Uses a specialized aluminum gutter-mount bracket, secured with flat head screws, nylon locking nuts, and socket head screws.
Configuration Switches: The sensor includes internal configuration switches, one of which must be turned ON for rain sensing functionality.
LED Status Lights: Provide visual feedback on the sensor's status, including during Demo Mode.

Maintenance Features:

Annual Maintenance Recommended:
- Cleaning: The sensor's surface should be kept clean. If dirty, gently wipe it with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning agent.
- Avoid Abrasives: Do not use abrasive products or solvents for cleaning.
- Avoid High-Pressure Water: Do not clean the sensor with a water spray or high-pressure cleaning methods.
- Operational Check: Regularly check for correct operation of the sensor.
Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a troubleshooting section for common issues:
- Awning not closing in rain: Check for sufficient charge (10 minutes direct sunlight), ensure rain sensing switch is ON, and adjust rain sensitivity if set too high.
- LED status lights not blinking: Indicates the sensor is not charged; ensure it is face up in direct sunlight for at least 10 minutes.
- Awning opening or closing too often: Adjust rain sensitivity if set too low.
Deleting Sensor from Motor's Memory: The sensor can be unprogrammed from the awning motor by pressing the programming button on the remote until the awning jogs, then pressing the programming button on the sensor until the awning jogs again.