- 2 February 2026
- by Justin Weidenaar
Automating an Awning: Somfy Sensors & Tips
- 2 February 2026
- by Justin Weidenaar
Get more from your awning: From electric operation to full automation
An articulated arm awning is a wonderful addition to your home. It keeps your patio cool and protects your interior from bright sunlight. But did you know that your awning can do much more than just 'open' and 'close' with a remote control?
At STERK Zonweringen, we often get asked how to make a screen "automatic". Automation not only provides extra comfort, but it also extends the lifespan of your screen through smart wind protection. In this blog, we delve into Somfy's four main systems and explain when we recommend using each one.
1. The central brain: TaHoma Switch
The foundation of smart sun blinds starts with the Somfy TaHoma Switch. This is a 'bridge' (hub) that connects your awning to the internet and your smartphone.
- What does it do?
It allows you to control your articulated awning via the TaHoma app, wherever you are. But its real power lies in automations (scenarios).
- The possibilities:
You can set the screen to close every morning at 9:00 AM, or to close automatically as soon as the sun sets. You can also set up presence simulation when you are on holiday. It also offers integration possibilities with home automation.
- When to choose?
If you want full control via your phone, Google Home or Apple HomeKit, and if you want the screen to interact with other smart devices (such as lighting). We call these home automation systems.
TaHoma switch - Somfy
Sale price€137,00Regular price
€199,00
2. Comfort and climate control: Somfy Sunis WireFree io
Do you want the screen to "think" for itself? Then the Sunis WireFree io (the solar sensor) is the solution.
- What does it do?
This wireless sensor continuously measures light intensity (lux). As soon as the sun is bright enough and exceeds a certain threshold, the sensor sends a signal to the motor to extend the screen.
- When to choose?
This is ideal for indoor climate control. Are you at work all day? The Sunis ensures that the sun doesn't shine on your windows all day. You come home to a cool house and your furniture won't discolour due to UV radiation.
Somfy Sunteis io – Outdoor sun sensor io
€99,95
3. The classic wind sensor: Somfy Eolis WireFree io
In the Netherlands, wind is the biggest enemy of your folding arm awning. The Eolis WireFree is a wind sensor (anemometer) that is mounted on the facade.
- What does it do?
The sensor measures the current wind speed. If the wind exceeds the set safe speed, the motor immediately receives a "signal" to retract. This signal always overrides the sun sensor.
- When to choose?
We often recommend the Eolis WireFree for drop arm awnings or for folding arm awnings that are installed in very open locations.
Somfy Eolis Wirefree IO
€139,00
4. The specialist for articulated arm awnings: Somfy Eolis 3D Sensor io
For articulated arm awnings, Somfy has developed a specific sensor that we at STERK Zonweringen often recommend: the Eolis 3D Sensor.
- What does it do?
Unlike the wind sensor on the wall, this sensor is placed in or on the front bar of the awning itself. It doesn't measure wind speed, but movement and vibration. If the wind gets under the awning and it starts to "flap" or bounce, the sensor intervenes and retracts the awning.
- When to choose?
This is the best choice for folding arm awnings. Why? Because wind against the facade can sometimes be less severe, while a gust of wind under the fabric can lift the awning considerably. The 3D sensor measures the actual movement on the front bar of your awning. Furthermore, the sensor is virtually invisible.
Somfy Eolis 3D IO – Wind sensor
Sale price€109,00Regular price
€139,00
What does this look like in practice?
Many customers ask us: "Can the screen really open by itself when the sun is bright enough, without me doing anything?" The answer is: Yes, absolutely.
Let's take a look at what a typical summer day looks like with an automated articulated arm awning from STERK Zonweringen.
The sun is breaking through
Around lunchtime, the sun breaks through brightly. The Somfy Sunis (sun sensor) measures that the light intensity exceeds the set value. The sensor waits for a moment (to prevent the screen from going up and down with every passing cloud) and then sends the signal: open.
- The result: Your screen turns off automatically. Your rear facade and windows are shielded, keeping the heat out and preventing your floor and furniture from fading.
The weather is changing
A severe summer storm suddenly brews. You're not home and would normally panic about your extended awning. But the system is alert. The Eolis 3D Sensor on the awning senses that the fabric is starting to flap in the gust of wind.
The result: The wind protection is activated immediately. Wind always takes precedence over sun. The screen is retracted into its safe cassette immediately, before the storm breaks.
Coming home
You come home to a pleasantly cool house because the sun has been kept out all morning and early afternoon. The wind has died down, and you want to enjoy a drink outside. Using the TaHoma Switch on your phone, you retract the screen and enjoy the evening.
How are these systems linked?
The beauty of the Somfy IO system is that everything communicates wirelessly with each other.
- No extra cables: The sensors are powered by batteries that last for years. No cables need to be run across your facade.
- Connection: The sensors are digitally "taught" to the screen's motor via the TaHoma Switch or a wall transmitter.
- Adjustment: During installation, STERK Zonweringen will set the sensitivity for you. We ensure that the screen does not close with every gust of wind, but does close exactly on time to prevent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I also install this system on my current articulated arm awning?
Both Somfy's RTS and IO motors can be operated using this control. You need a separate wind sensor and sun sensor for each motor type.
Does my screen also open automatically in winter when the sun shines?
You might not want that, as in winter you want to let the sun's heat in to save on heating costs. You can easily 'Pause' or disable the automatic sun function via the TaHoma app during the winter months. Of course, the wind protection always remains active for safety.
Can I still operate the screen with the remote control if I have sensors?
Yes, absolutely. You always remain in control. If you manually close the screen with the remote control while the sun is shining, the automatic system will not immediately reopen the screen. After a certain period (or the next day, depending on the setting), the automatic program will resume.
Please note: If there is too much wind, you cannot open the screen manually. The wind protection blocks the operation to prevent damage.
What if my internet goes out? Will my screen still work then?
The sensors (Sun and Wind) communicate directly with your screen's motor via the io protocol. This does not require internet. So, if your WiFi goes down, the remote control and wind protection will continue to work normally. Only control via the app on your phone (via the TaHoma Switch) will temporarily not work until the internet is restored.
How often do I need to replace the sensor batteries?
Somfy's sun and wind sensors are very efficient with their power consumption. On average, they last 3-5 years. If you have a Tahoma Switch, you will receive a notification when one of the batteries is almost empty.
This blog was written by
Justin, our product specialist. With over 5 years of experience, he's happy to share his knowledge. He's happy to help you with all your questions. Feel free to contact us!
