How to fix an electric blind?

A frequent problem in the home is that a roller shutter breaks down. It is not complicated to fix it again. However, when there are motors and automatisms for roller blinds... The truth is that many people panic. But, when you read this post, you will see that fixing an electric roller shutter is simpler than it sounds.

What are electric blinds?

Before you start to learn how to fix electric blinds, it's good to know that what they are and what their advantages and characteristics are. With that knowledge, you can choose whether to repair them or replace them with a new design. To begin with, these blinds are similar to conventional ones and have an electrical system with installed engine inside the axle to be lowered or raised at the touch of a button.

We can find different types depending on the user's needs. We can find blinds with motors that are operated by sensors, with remote control to operate them or, alternatively, they can be raised and lowered with a switch. They are undoubtedly much more comfortable and practical than traditional blinds.

Possible malfunctions of electric roller shutters

It is crucial to detect what the problem is. If we talk about shutters electrical appliances, certain malfunctions can occur. So, we are going to explain how to repair them. The first thing you need to do is turn off your engine to get down to work.

How to lower a jammed electric blind

The first problem that an electric roller shutter can have is that it can get stuck. This can happen when:

• The shutter overheatsThis happens if the engine is constantly running low or high. The remedy to this is to switch off the engine and let it cool down.
• The engine is defectiveIn this case there is not much to do. Simply contact the manufacturer and order a new motor for your roller shutter.
• The motor is incorrectly positioned in the roller shutter tube.The roller shutter motor must always be inside the roller or tube and must be secured with a screw.
• The tube is incorrectly positioned: put it back in place. Once it is in the right place, your roller shutter will work properly again.
• The strapping is in bad conditionHere it is sufficient to replace them with new ones.

Follow these steps and your shutter will no longer be obstructed.

What to do if my roller shutter does not go up or down at all

Although we have already reported on another occasion how to lower an electric blind manuallyWe are going to take a closer look at this type of fault.

Why doesn't it go up or down completely? This problem is probably due to the adjusting screws. These may be:

• Loose
• Misplaced

Take a look at them and tighten them again to fix your electric shutter.

Now you know how to fix a blind that does not lower properly or how to fix a blind that won't go up.

Shutter malfunctioning

OK... But what happens if the shutter doesn't work properly at all?

• Deteriorated cables. To repair this, you have to lower the light so that you can manipulate the wires, find the problem and fix it.
• Poor installation. One of the biggest problems is poor installation. For this, you have to compare how the cables are laid and compare them according to the installation manual.
• Bad or deteriorated slats. Bad louvres can collide with each other and cause malfunctions. To repair this fault, simply replace them with new ones.

External malfunctions of the electric roller shutter mechanism

To repair an electric roller shutter, you have to differentiate whether or not a fault affects the malfunction. Often the problem can be on the outside, such as:

• The switch. The wires to the switch may not be correctly positioned or there may be a loose wire.
• Batteries. Some blinds do not have switches, as they are controlled by remote controls, so the problem may be that the batteries have run down. They just need to be replaced.

Solutions to a faulty roller shutter

If you are thinking of motorising a roller blindBut let's be clear about one thing: electrical appliances can suffer from the same faults as conventional ones. So, let's see what these are and how to remedy them:

Changing the slats of the roller shutter

The slats of roller shutters can be affected by the weather, rain, sun, wind...

In short, factors that make them deteriorate more easily.

The cost of this breakdown is between 80 and 120 euros..

Although you can always changing the slat of a roller shutter yourself, as well as aligning the louvre blades.

You should be aware of certain tips on how to protect blinds from the wind.

Changing the engine belt

One of the most common faults with roller shutters is a clogged or broken belt. If you are wondering how to fix a blind cordDon't worry, this is an uncomplicated task that won't take more than half an hour.

Request repair from an installer

However, if you are overwhelmed by all these repair issues, you can always use a professional. It will fix your electric shutter in no time at all, without you having to get your hands dirty.

How to grease a roller shutter

In order to prevent PVC roller shutters If the aluminium or aluminium parts creak, you should lubricate them regularly. This will also help them to move properly:

• Lubricate the rails of thermal aluminium roller shutters o PVCRoll up the roller shutter completely. Apply the product on the guides and wait a few minutes. Then wipe them with a cloth. Then lubricate.
• Lubricate the upper rollerLower the roller shutter all the way down. Remove the panel to see the roller housing. Lubricate the end bearings generously.
• Lubricating the side pulleySpray, clean and lubricate, as with the rails.
• Lubricate the parts in contact with the belt.This will prevent wear and tear of the belt.

How to fix a roller shutter motor

The motor of an electric roller shutter can sometimes cause blockages (e.g. by getting caught in the cable or belt). A simple and inexpensive solution is to make use of the motor control. Reconfigure the limit switchesThis way, the shutter will brake as it should and will not go all the way into the box. You can also tighten a cable if it has come loose.

How much it costs to fix an electric blind

It is common to feel reluctant to call a professional without first knowing how much it costs to fix an electric shutter. To give you an idea, the average price for this type of repair is between 100 and 270 euros.

How much does an electric roller shutter motor cost?

If you enter our catalogue of Somfy motors or Cherubini MotorsYou will see how much we sell them for. The truth is that our price is quite affordable compared to the market. As a general rule, buying and installing these devices costs 180-250 euros.

Conclusion on fixing electric roller shutters

As you can see, it's not complicated fixing an electric roller shutter and, if you're a handyman, you can do it yourself without having to call in a professional; all you need to do is buy the shutter accessories and spare parts you need.