Roller shutter frozen: what to do and how to prevent it?

Updated: 07.11.2026

In brief: If the roller shutter is frozen, do not keep trying to move it with the motor. Wait until the sun or room heat melts the ice. Repeated starts overload the motor and can damage slats or suspension.

What to do?

1. Motor nicht mehrfach starten – der Thermoschutz schaltet sonst ab.
2. Wait until it gets warmer during the day.
3. Carefully remove ice from the guide rails; do not hold an open hot-air gun to plastic.
4. Only then move it and listen for noises.

Prevention

• In frost and sleet, do not close the roller shutter completely; leave a ventilation position.
• Keep guide rails clean.
• Use a motor with frost protection : it detects the increased resistance and stops.

The A-OK AM45 radio (6–30 Nm, ab 100 € netto) hat Hinderniserkennung und Frostschutz. Mechanische Motoren wie der AM45 mechanical do not have this function.

Automation in winter

If you operate the roller shutter by timer, make sure in winter that the motor stops on resistance – otherwise the automation drives against the ice. More: Automatic roller shutter control.

Frequently asked questions

Is the motor broken if it does not run in frost?

Usually not. Often only the thermal protection has tripped. After cooling down it runs again, see Roller shutter motor not working.

Can I retrofit frost protection to an existing motor?

No, the function is built into the motor electronics. The motor is replaced for this.

Calculate the torque yourself: Roller shutter motor calculator. All guides on roller shutter, awning and external venetian blind motors: Sun protection guide.

Advice on the right motor

Send us the shaft diameter, curtain size and material – we will name the right A-OK motor. Phone 040 50694631 (Mon–Fri 8 am–5 pm) or via the Contact form. All motors at a glance: Sun protection motors.