To efficiently get air out of an air awning, the key is to correctly set the spring pins within each valve to the DOWN/OPEN position, allowing air to freely pour out. This action is crucial for a complete and quick deflation, preparing your awning for rolling and packing away.
Understanding Your Air Awning Valves
Air awnings utilize specific valves, each containing a spring pin that controls airflow. This pin has two primary positions, directly impacting whether air is retained or released.
- The Spring Pin which is set within each valve has 2 positions.
- DOWN/OPEN - This will allow air to freely pour out.
When preparing to deflate your awning, ensuring all these spring pins are correctly set to the DOWN/OPEN position within their respective valves is paramount. This mechanism allows for the rapid expulsion of air, simplifying the packing process.
Valve Pin Positions for Deflation
| Valve Pin Position | Airflow Control | Action for Deflation |
|---|---|---|
| DOWN/OPEN | Allows air to flow freely out | Essential for rapid deflation |
| UP/CLOSED (Implied) | Retains air (for inflation) | Avoid for deflation |
Step-by-Step Deflation Process
Follow these steps to efficiently deflate your air awning:
- Locate All Valves: Identify all inflation/deflation valves on your air awning. Depending on the model, there might be multiple valves across different air beams.
- Depress the Spring Pin: For each valve, locate the internal spring pin. Press this pin down firmly until it clicks or remains in the DOWN/OPEN position. This action opens the valve, allowing air to escape.
- Confirm Air Release: You should immediately hear or feel air escaping from the valve once the pin is correctly set to DOWN/OPEN.
- Open All Valves: Repeat this process for every valve on your awning to ensure complete deflation from all air beams.
- Fold or Roll Awaay: Once all air is released, you can begin to fold or roll your awning, further expelling any remaining trapped air. Start from the end opposite the open valves and work your way towards them.
Tips for Efficient Deflation and Packing
- Clear the Area: Ensure the area around your awning is clear of obstructions to allow for easy folding and rolling.
- Walk the Awning: Gently walk over the deflating air beams, or apply light pressure, to help push out any residual air.
- Keep Zips Open: Leave any doors or windows unzipped to help prevent air from being trapped as you fold the fabric.
- Roll Tightly: For compact storage, roll the awning as tightly as possible, especially as you approach the end where the valves are located.
- Clean Before Packing: Deflate and clean your awning while it's still pitched, if possible, to prevent mold and mildew during storage.
