Carefree APEX User manual

O WNER ' S M ANUAL
APEX
WITH DIRECT RESPONSE ELECTRONICS
RV
Before operating the awning, carefully review the Owner's Manual.
The manual contains important safety information, detailed operating
instructions, common maintenance procedures and other useful
information.
T ABLE OF C ONTENTS
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 2
Operation ............................................................................................................... 2
Warnings and Cautions.................................................................................3
Quick Start..................................................................................................... 3
Single Awning Control Panel.........................................................................4
Multiple Awning Control Panels.....................................................................5
The Auto-Retract System..............................................................................6
Using the Remote Control.............................................................................7
Single Awning Key FOB......................................................................7
Multi-Awning Remotes ........................................................................8
Programming the RF Receiver for a Remote ...................................... 9
Manual Override..........................................................................................10
Awning Care ........................................................................................................ 10
Fabric Care..................................................................................................10
Pooling ........................................................................................................ 10
Carefree Major Product Limited Warranty......................................................... 11

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INTRODUCTION
From it's beginning in the early 70's, Carefree of Colorado has emerged as the
premier manufacturer of quality awnings and accessories for Recreational
Vehicles (RVs). Our full line of products can provide the accessories that match
your life style; no matter what type of RV you own. Check with your dealer to
discover the products that can make your life more Carefree.
The Apex Patio Awning offers the coach owner an awning system that provides
as much or as little shade as required. The versatile awning system is available
as a single awning or as a 2 or 4 awning combination with all awnings controlled
at a single master control panel.
Each unit is equipped with Apex lateral support arms that are the strongest
available on the market. No vertical arms interfere with coach sidewalls or
equipment that may be mounted on the roof. These arms can also be adjusted
to vary the canopy pitch up to 2 feet (it is strongly recommended that service and
adjustments be performed by trained technicians).
The canopy is made from acrylic fabric. The canopies are housed in an
aluminum case that easily blends in with the coach roof.
The unique and innovative 110V electronic control system provides Carefree’s Direct
Response system with interior pushbutton controls for standard extend/retract functions.
At the master control panel the auto-retract system sensitivity can be set to respond to a
variety of wind speed conditions. An RF remote is included as standard.
OPERATION
The Direct Response system provides a wide range of awning controls with
control panel operation in one convenient location. Standard operation is
straight-forward with the buttons clearly labeled. The control panel is designed to
allow the user to control each awning individually or together.
Operational Notes:
Ignition Lockout Sensors:
If the optional Carefree EL ignition lockout is installed the system will disable the
extend function while the vehicle ignition key is in the ON position.
Special order RTL ignition lockouts will fully retract the awning and disable the
extend function when the vehicle ignition key is in the ON position.
Functions will return to normal operation when the ignition key is turned OFF.
Coach manufacturers may install their own lockout design. Refer to the coach
literature for AC power for accessories.
Awning Motor
The awning motor is equipped with a thermal protection circuit to protect the motor
from overheating. Operating the awning repeatedly over a short time period may
cause the circuit to sense a overheat condition and shut off the motor. If this
occurs, wait approximately 15 minutes to allow the motor to cool then operate the
awning in normal fashion.
NOTICE FOR MULTIPLE AWNINGS ONLY: Pressing multiple buttons at the
same time may cause the awnings to appear to move erratically. If this occurs,
press the stop button. Use the individual controls to set the awning(s) to the
desired position.

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W ARNINGS AND C AUTIONS
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert individuals to
potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that
follow this symbol to avoid possible personal injury or death.
WARNING This product can expose you to chemicals including Di-
isodecyl phthalate (DIDP), Vinyl Chloride and Formaldehyde, which are
known to the state of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other
reproductive harm. For more information visit www.P65warnings.ca.gov
WARNING Risk of fire. Keep all sources of heat and
flame away from the awning canopy. Fabric is NOT fireproof.
NOTICE Awnings are designed to provide shade and protection from the
sun. The effects of wind and rain on an awning are unpredictable and can cause
severe damage to the awning and/or the vehicle. If wind or extended periods of
rain are expected, roll up the awning.
NOTICE It is recommended that if leaving the RV unattended for a length of
time, retract the awning to avoid unexpected weather conditions.
NOTICE If installed, LED lighting must be turned off when the awning is in
the rolled up position. This is to prevent possible damage to the LEDs and/or
canopy.
Additional Cautions and Notices are included in the text for the proper operation
of the awning.
IMPORTANT NOTE:The auto-retract system is ON when the power is ON. The system is
OFF when the power switch is set to OFF. If the power is shut off while the awning is
extended, the awning is not protected by the auto-retract system.
Q UICK S TART
To Open the Awning:
Press the power button ON. When power is on, the Direct Response system
is active and the manual controls are active. When power is OFF, all
functions are disabled.
Press and release the extend button. The awning will open completely. To
interrupt the awning retraction, press the stop button. The awning will stop.
To Close the Awning:
Press and release the retract button. The awning will close completely. To
interrupt the awning retraction, press the stop button. The awning will stop.
When the awning is in the retracted (rolled up) position, press the power
button OFF to avoid accidentally extending the awning.

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RTA039a
Power On/Off
Motion Sensor
Low High
Awning Control
Extend
Retract
Stop
Extend
Single Awning
Motion Sensitivity
Low High
LED Indicator
Power
On/Off
Retract
Stop
S INGLE A WNING C ONTROL P ANEL
LED Indicator
oLED is Steady ON when power is ON.
oLED will dim and fast flash when a
function key is pressed.
oLED will slow flash if a motion sensor
is disengaged or disabled.
Power Press ON/Press OFF. The power switch must be on before any awning
functions can be used. When the power is ON, the LED indicator will
illuminate. The Direct Response Auto-Retract is active when awning power is
on.
CAUTION Set the power switch be to OFF whenever the
awning is not being operated and during transport. This acts as a
safety to prevent the awning from being accidently opened.
Extend Press and release. The awning will extend out to the full extension and
stop automatically.
During normal operation, the awning will extend out completely then roll
back slightly to provide tension to the fabric.
NOTE: If the optional Carefree ignition lockout is installed, the system will
disable the extend function while the vehicle ignition key is in the ON position.
Functions will return to normal operation when the ignition key is turned OFF.
Coach manufacturers may install their own lockout design. Refer to the
coach literature for AC power for accessories.
Stop Press and release. During extend and retract functions, the operator may
stop the awning by pressing this button.
Retract Press and release. The awning will retract and stop automatically when
the awning is fully retracted. When the button is pushed, the LED will
illuminate and stay on until another function is activated.
All function buttons are press ON. The auto-functions continue until the awning is fully
extended or fully retracted or when the button is pressed a second time to stop the
function. It is not necessary to hold the button while the function is active.
See Page 5 for descriptions of the Auto-Retract settings.

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5
M ULTIPLE A WNING C ONTROL P ANELS
RTA039b
Power
On/Off Stop
Motion Sensor
Low High
Awning Control
Extend Retract
All Awnings
Awning 2
Awning 1
Extend Retract
Power
On/Off
Awning 4
Motion Sensor
Low High
Stop
Awning 1
Awning 2
Awning 3
Extend Retract
All Awnings
Driver Side
Passenger Side
Individual Awnings
Extend/Retract
4-Awning
All Awnings
Extend/Retract
Passenger Side
Extend/Retract
Driver Side
Extend/Retract
Motion Sensitivity
Low High
LED Indicator
Power
On/Off
Stop
All Awnings
Individual Awnings
Extend/Retract
2-Awning
All Awnings
Extend/Retract
Motion Sensitivity
Low High
LED Indicator
Power
On/Off
Stop
All Awnings
The controls are divided into specific groups. The individual controls allow you to
extend or retract awnings individually. The combination controls can be used to
simultaneously extend or retract all of the awnings.
LED Indicator
oLED is Steady ON when power is ON.
oLED will dim and fast flash when a function key is pressed.
oLED will slow flash if a motion sensor is disengaged or otherwise disabled.
Power Press ON/Press Off. The power switch must be on before any functions can
be used. When the power is ON, the LED indicator will illuminate. The Direct
Response Auto-Retract is active when awning power is on.
CAUTION Set the power switch to OFF whenever the
awning is not being operated and during transport. This acts as a
safety to prevent the awning from being accidently opened.
Stop Press and release. During extend and retract functions, the operator may
stop the awnings by pressing this button.
Extend Press and release. The awning will extend out to the full extension and
stop automatically. During normal operation, the awning will extend out
completely then roll back slightly to provide tension to the fabric.
Retract Press and release. The awning will retract and stop automatically when
the awning is fully retracted.

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To stop an individual awning during an operation, press and release the
SAME button a second time. Example press the extend button to extend the first
awning, press the same extend button to stop the first awning before the awning
is fully extended. THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO THE EXTEND ALL OR RETRACT ALL
BUTTONS!
IMPORTANT NOTE: When using the "Extend All" or "Retract All" commands, the awnings
continue until FULLY extended or retracted. To stop the awnings, press the stop button.
T HE A UTO -R ETRACT S YSTEM
The system is active when the awning power is on and disabled when the power
is shut off. To turn on the system, press the power button ON.
NOTICE The Carefree Direct Response System is a premier electronic auto-
retract system that provides protection against adverse elements; but no auto-
retract system is a guarantee against severe or destructive weather; the effects
of wind and rain on an awning are unpredictable and may cause severe damage
to the awning and/or vehicle. If wind or extended periods of rain are expected,
roll up the awning.
The Direct Response system detects awning
motion caused by windy conditions. The motion
sensor is located in the lead rail. The system
operates by gauging the vertical motion of the
awning’s leading edge. When persistent motion
exceeds the factory preset threshold, the system
retracts the awning. The control panel provides
4 factory preset sensitivity values (threshold
values). You may have to experiment to find the
best setting for your preferences.
Low The lower the selection, less motion is required before the system closes
automatically.
High The higher the selection, more motion is required before the system closes
automatically.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR MULTIPLE AWNING CONFIGURATIONS:Each awning has an
independent motion sensor. During windy conditions, the awnings may not retract
concurrently.
NOTE: If the Indicator LED flashes (slow pulse), this indicates that a motion
sensor has been disengaged or otherwise disabled; the affected awning(s) are
not protected by the auto-retract system. The awning must be retracted using
the command buttons. Immediately contact a Carefree service center for
service.
RTA039c
Motion Sensor
Low High

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7
U SING THE R EMOTE C ONTROL
A remote control is provided with the Direct Response system. In simple terms,
the remote is a wireless key pad that functions in the same manner that the
stationary control panel. The remote provides the advantage of allowing you to
operate the awning from any convenient location.
The remote has a maximum operating range of 50 feet. Actual distance may vary
depending on the specific installation and location of the receiver in the vehicle.
Remotes transmit on a frequency of 433MHz.
To use: turn system power ON at the control panel.
NOTE: Power ON/OFF and the Auto-Retract system can only be operated at
the control panel.
SINGLE AWNING KEY FOB
A remote control Key FOB is furnished with the single awning
installation. To use: turn system power ON.
Extend Press and release. The awning will extend out to the
full extension and stop automatically.
Retract Press and release. The awning will retract and stop
automatically when the awning is fully retracted.
Stop Press and release. During extend and retract
functions, the awning may be stopped by pressing
this button.
Key FOB Battery
The 433 MHz remote uses a battery (Radio Shack p/n 23-279 or equivalent) that
should provide a long period of service. To access: Remove the small screw
from the back of the case and carefully snap off the back. Lift the old battery out
and insert the new battery.
Batteries are available through your local battery outlets.
Battery life is dependent on frequency of use, environmental conditions and
condition of remote.
Function
Buttons
Stop
DR010

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MULTI-AWNING REMOTES
2-Awning Remote 4-Awning Remote RTA038
All
Awnings
Driver Side
Awnings
Passenger Side
Awnings
Awning 1 Awning 2
Awning 3 Awning 4
Extend Retract
Extend Retract
Extend Retract Extend Retract
Stop
All
Awnings
Awning 1 Awning 2
Extend Retract
Extend Retract Extend Retract
Stop
All Awnings
Extend/Retract
Individual Awnings
Extend/Retract
Driver Side
Extend/Retract
Passenger Side
Extend/Retract
Stop All
All Awnings
Extend/Retract
Individual Awnings
Extend/Retract
Stop All
Extend Press and release. The awning will extend out to the full extension and
stop automatically. During normal operation, the awning will extend out
completely then roll back slightly to provide tension to the fabric.
Retract Press and release. The awning will retract and stop automatically
when the awning is fully retracted.
Stop Press and release. During extend and retract functions, the operator may
stop the awnings by pressing this button.
To stop an individual awning during an operation, press and release the
SAME button a second time. Example press the extend button to extend the
awning, press the same extend button to stop the awning before the awning
is fully extended. THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO THE EXTEND/RETRACT ALL BUTTONS!
IMPORTANT NOTE: When using the "Extend All" or "Retract All" commands, the
awnings continue until FULLY extended or retracted. To stop the awnings, press the
stop button.
Key Pad Remote Battery
The remote uses two standard AAA Batteries that should provide a long period of
service. To access: open the access cover on the back of the case. Batteries
are available through your local battery outlets.

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PROGRAMMING THE RF RECEIVER FOR A REMOTE
When adding or replacing a remote control, it is necessary to program the
transmitter and receiver.
1. Power to the control box must be on.
2. Locate the receiver box.
3. Press and release the “Press to Learn
Transmitter” button on the bottom of the
receiver. The receiver is in program mode
when the red light comes on.
4. For Single Awning Key FOBS: Press and
release the STOP button on the remote. The
red light will go out after the receiver learns
the remote signal.
NOTE: Pressing the stop button will cause
the blue up arrow button to default as the
open (extend) function.
If a function button is pressed to train the receiver, it will be programmed as
the open (extend) button. Example: Pressing the bottom button will
program the bottom button for extend and the top button as retract.
5. For Multiple Awning Remotes: Press and release the ANY button on the
remote. It is recommended to use the STOP button. The red light will go out
after the receiver learns the remote signal.
CAUTION When the receiver learns the transmitter signal, the system
will perform the operation of the button pressed. Example: Pressing an
"Extend" button during the learning phase will cause the awning to extend when
the receiver learns the signal. Use caution to avoid unexpected movement by
the awning.
6. Repeat for each additional remote.
OPERATIONAL NOTES:
The transmitter and receiver operate on a frequency of 433MHz.
The receiver exits the program mode after ten seconds.
If the light does not come on in step 2, the memory is full and must be cleared. If
the light still does not come on, check the continuity of the cord between the boxes
and repair or replace as required. Pin 1 of the 1st connector goes to pin 1 of the 2nd
connector etc.
If the light does not go out above, the receiver knows the transmitter signal
or the battery in the Remote needs to be replaced.
To clear the memory: PRESS AND HOLD the receiver learn button. While
holding the button, the indicator light should be OFF for the full 5 seconds
then come on.
The receiver may be programmed for up to 5 remotes. Additional remotes
may be ordered separately.
Program
Button
Indicator
Light
WS018
TO EYE PORT on RP24 Program Mode
Press to Learn Transmitter
UP

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M ANUAL O VERRIDE
If 110V power is not available to the coach, the Apex awning can still be safely
retracted using the manual override.
1. The bypass is located inside the
case, near the end cap. To
access, remove the large rubber
plug on top of the awning
located toward the rear of the
case on the motor side.
2. Chuck the supplied 7mm hex key
into a 3/8” battery powered drill.
3. Insert the hex key into the
manual override on the awning.
4. Operate the drill in the direction shown to open and close the awning.
5. When done, reinsert the rubber plug.
AWNING CARE
Maintaining a Carefree 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
NOTICE Do not use oil based cleaners or any caustic, granulated, or
abrasive type cleaners on your Carefree 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 the awning frame.
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 retracting the awning.
P OOLING
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; retract the awning in steps (8"-12") to dump the
water. This will help prevent the fabric from stretching or distorting.
The effects of wind and rain on an awning are unpredictable. Severe
damage to the awning and the vehicle may result. IF WIND OR EXTENDED
PERIODS OF RAIN ARE EXPECTED,RETRACT THE AWNING AND SECURE.
7mm Hex
Manual
Override
RTA015a
LH Motor RH Motor
Lead Rail
Open
Close
Open
Close

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CAREFREE MAJOR PRODUCT LIMITED WARRANTY
Carefree of Colorado (hereafter referred to as Carefree) warrants to the first retail
Purchaser that the Carefree Product is free of defects in material and
workmanship within the terms and conditions as set forth in the warranty
statement available online at www.carefreeofcolorado.com. Carefree’s obligation
under this warranty is limited to the repair or replacement, at Carefree’s option, of
any defective component with new or factory refurbished components.
OWNER MUST RETAIN THE ORIGINAL PROOF OF PURCHASE AND/OR HAVE THE PRODUCT
WARRANTY REGISTRATION ON FILE AT CAREFREE FOR WARRANTY CLAIMS.
THIS WARRANTY IS NOT TRANSFERABLE.
Visit www.carefreeofcolorado.com for
- Warranty Duration;
- Warranty Coverage and Exclusions;
- Warranty Terms of Coverage; and,
- Warranty Claim Procedures
Register your Carefree products online at www.carefreeofcolorado.com
IMPORTANT NOTICE: It is strongly recommended that adjustments and repairs not
described in this book be performed by trained technicians at your Authorized
Carefree Dealer. Work performed by non-authorized persons or businesses may
void warranty.

052522-230r6 Printed in USA November, 2018
Quality
Performance
Value
Style
Carefree of Colorado www.carefreeofcolorado.com a Scott Fetzer company
Electric components in this product have been tested by the following agencies:
Motor: UL Recogonized (USA & Canada)
Controls: UL Listed (USA & Canada)