Carefree MIRAGE User manual

O WNER ' S M ANUAL
M IRAGE
WITH D IRECT R ESPONSE
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 
Control Panel.................................................................................................4 
The Auto-Retract System..............................................................................5 
Using the Key FOB Remote Control..............................................................5 
Programming the Receiver..................................................................6 
Manual Override............................................................................................ 6 
Awning Care .......................................................................................................... 7 
Fabric Care....................................................................................................7 
Pooling ................................................................................................ 7 
Arm Care.......................................................................................................7 
Carefree Major Product Limited Warranty........................................................... 8 

Carefree of Colorado
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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 Mirage Patio Awning offers the coach owner an awning system that provides
as much or as little shade as required. The canopies are housed in an aluminum
case that easily blends in with the coach side wall. The canopy is made from
woven acrylic fabric.
Each unit is equipped with Mirage 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 sidewalls or sidewall graphics. 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 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. The standard operation is straight-forward
with the buttons clearly labeled. Sensitivity control is described on page 5.
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.

M IRAGE
3
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 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.
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.
I
MPORTANT N OTE : 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.

Carefree of Colorado
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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
otherwise disabled.
Power Press ON/Press OFF. The power switch must be ON before any awning
functions can be used. When 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.
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

MIRAGE
5
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.
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.
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.
U SING THE K EY FOB R EMOTE C ONTROL
A remote control Key FOB is furnished with the Direct Response system. In simple
terms, the Key FOB is a wireless switch that functions in the same manner that the
stationary touchpad does. The Key FOB provides the advantage of allowing you to
operate the awning from any convenient location. 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 closed.
Stop Press and release. During extend and retract
functions, the awning may be stopped by pressing
this button.
NOTE: Power ON/OFF and the Auto-Retract system can
only be operated at the control panel.
Key FOB Battery
The Key FOB remote w/ antenna 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. Replace
battery. Batteries are available through your local battery outlets.
Battery life is dependent on frequency of use, environmental conditions and
condition of remote.
RTA039c
Motion Sensor
Low High
Function
Buttons
Stop
DR010

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PROGRAMMING THE RECEIVER
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. Press and release the “Press to Learn
Transmitter” button on the bottom of the
receiver box. The receiver is in program
mode when the red light comes on.
3. Press and release the STOP button on
the remote. The red light goes out after
the receiver learns the remote signal.
NOTE: Pressing the stop button will cause the blue up arrow button to
default as the close (retract) function.
If a function button is pressed to train the receiver, it will be programmed as
the retract button. Example: Pressing the top button will program the top
button for retract and the bottom button as extend.
Remote Operational Notes:
Transmitter and receiver operate on frequency 433 MHz.
The receiver exits the program mode after ten seconds.
If the light does not come on, the memory is full and must be cleared.
To clear the memory: PRESS AND HOLD the transmitter learn button. While holding the
button, the indicator light should be OFF for the full 5 seconds then come on.
If the light does not go out during programming, the receiver already knows the
transmitter's signal or the battery in the remote needs to be replaced.
The system may be programmed for up to 5 remotes. Additional remotes may be
ordered separately.
M ANUAL O VERRIDE
If 110V power is not available, the awning can still be safely retracted using the manual
override. The bypass may be accessed from inside the case on the motor housing or
through the top of the case above the motor housing.
To use the top bypass access: Remove the screw
and well nut that is used to secure the end cap.
To use the inside bottom access: The awning
must be open of 6-8” to access the override.
1. Chuck the supplied 7mm hex key into a 3/8”
battery powered drill.
2. Insert the hex key into the manual override
on the awning. For the top access, it will be
necessary to locate the hex by feel; it is not
visible with the key inserted in the hole.
3. Operate the drill in the forward (clockwise)
direction to close the awning. Reverse the
drill to open the awning.
NOTE: When using the bottom override, the awning can only be closed within 6-8”.
It will be necessary to use the top access to close the awning completely.
4. When done, return the screw and well nut to the top of the case if removed.
DR020
TO EYE PORT on RP24 Program Mode
Press to Learn Transmitter
UP
Program
Button
Indicator
Light
Stop
RR
Wall
Bottom View
MIRAGE028
Wall
Top View
Remove Screw and
Rubber Well Nut to
A
ccess Manual
Overide (7mm Hex)
Manual Override
(7mm Hex)

MIRAGE
7
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. 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.
POOLING
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.
A RM C ARE
The best method of keeping the spring arms operating smoothly is to clean them.
Periodically wash the arms with running water (i.e. a hose) to keep them clean. If the
arms still do not move easily, lightly spray the joints with a dry silicone lubricant.

052979-221r5 Printed in USA November, 2018
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.
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)