Having a RV means enjoying the liberty and travelling often. However, as with many grand quests, there is always the occasional requirement of a little touch of luxury and amenity. It is where the electric RV awning comes in handy. For the owners of RVs who wish to upgrade their living space outdoor models of the electric RV awnings will be discussed in this blog, from how to choose to how to control and when you have problems with it.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
- What an electric RV awning is?
- The benefits of using one
- Key considerations when choosing an awning
- Installation and maintenance tips
- Common troubleshooting issues
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Convenience: Electric RV awnings make the process of deploying and retracting your awning much easier, more convenient, and it only requires the push of a button.
- Durability: Vinyl and acrylic for framing provide better resilience against weather conditions because they are high-quality materials.
- Customization: Modern electrical awnings include such enhancements as wind sensors which helps in determining the amount of wind present; LED lighting which illuminates buildings during a particular evening; and pitched awnings which enables a person to set preferred pitch.
- Safety: Self-retraction in windy conditions is useful to prevent your awning and your RV itself from being damaged.
What is an Electric RV Awning?
An electric RV awning is a powered mechanism intended to give shelter to a side of your motorhome. While manual awnings have to be opened and closed manually, there is an easy way to control an electric version – with a push of a button or using a remote control. These awnings are manual and are designed to slide out or be pulled back in a matter of seconds to the comfort of the RV owners.
Components of an Electric RV Awning
Electric RV awnings are made up of the following core components:
- Motor: The powerhouse that govern the up and down movement of the awning.
- Retractable Arms: These arms also exist to bear the fabric of the awning and to enable easy extension or folding of the structure.
- Awning Fabric: Commonly used for production involve vinyl or acrylic material and is mainly used for shade and protection.
- Control System: A few switches to operate the awning system from a distance or through push button types.
Key Differences Between Manual and Electric Awnings
There is an enhancement in favor of electric awnings on the part of simplicity and versatility as compared to manual ones. Here’s a comparison table for a quick overview:
| Feature | Manual Awning | Electric Awning |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | 10-15 minutes (with effort) | 1-2 minutes (push of a button) |
| User Effort | Manual cranking | Push-button/remote |
| Weather Sensors | No | Yes (automatic retraction in windy conditions) |
| Customization Options | Limited | Advanced options (LED lights, automatic sensors) |
Electric RV awnings are easier to install and retract compared to traditional awnings and that makes them popular with people who are looking to save time.
Benefits of Using an Electric RV Awning
Making a decision to have an electric RV awning has its own opportunities that enrich your recreational vehicle experience. Whether you are planning to stay at camp for a few days or just need to take a break from traveling an electric awning can enhance the comfort of the stay.
1. Ease of Use
One of the first things that come to mind when talking about advantages of electric awnings is accessibility of the product. You can extend you awning or retract it easily within a short time depending on the push of a button. This is especially a great advantage especially if you are in an area that needs to be moved to a different area because of the weather conditions.
2. Time-Saving
Being on the road requires time management especially when one is conducting a business. Installing a manual awning may take as long as 15 minutes, which is for beginners or when the environmental conditions are not suitable for installing the awning. While a manual awning will take anything from several minutes to an hour to be pulled down or put up, an electric awning will take roughly between half a minute to a couple of minutes.
3. Protection from the Elements
All RV awnings are a defense against extreme conditions but paying extra for an electrically operated one gives you more extras such as the built-in sensors that will pull the awning in when there is high wind. They help avoid damages to these items, and therefore increase the life of the equipment that is part of the RV.
4. Additional Features and Customization
Telescopic RV awnings can afford extra bonuses that turn such electric awnings even more practical and cozy. These features include:
- LED Lights: Most of the structures contain built-in lighting to offer the desired light to the occupants especially after sunset.
- Wind Sensors: Other of these sensors are those that are capable of pulling the awning back most especially if the wind is strong.
- Adjustable Pitch: Many electric awnings can be aligned to change the angle, so they provide sufficient cover depending on the position of the sun.
5. Enhancing Outdoor Living Space
An awning is not exclusively protection from the sun but instead defines your RV’s outdoor space as a livable area. Whether it is arranging chairs, dining or simply chalking out a comfortable place to sit and relax, an electric awning transforms your home and outdoor activities into a more pleasant experience.
How to Choose the Right Electric RV Awning?
Some of the relevant selection criteria include the size and material options, additional features to expect as well as cost. The following brings out the most constructive points that you ought to put into consideration when making the decision.
1. Size and Fit
The first identifiable factor that is legitimate to define is the size of the Awning. Make sure you measure the side of your RV because you want the right size awning installed. They are usually of a moderate size or in other words the length of standard awnings are between 8 and 25 feet.
- Tip: Always allow for an extra foot on each side to ensure proper coverage and attachment.
2. Material Selection
Awning fabrics come in various materials, each with its own pros and cons:
| Material | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | Waterproof, durable, easy to clean | Heavier, less breathable |
| Acrylic | Breathable, resistant to mildew | Less waterproof, requires maintenance |
Both options provide good protection, but if you camp in rainy areas, vinyl might be the better choice due to its waterproof properties.
3. Advanced Features
Many modern electric RV awnings come with advanced features that provide added convenience:
- Wind Sensors: Automatically retracts the awning in strong winds.
- LED Lighting: Built-in lights for evening or night-time outdoor living.
- Manual Override: Allows manual operation in case of motor failure.
When selecting an awning, prioritize features that will be useful to you based on your travel patterns and preferences.
4. Budget Considerations
The costs for RV’s awnings can also differ depending on its size and the type of material being used and its functions. A basic model might cost around $500, while high-end models witFrequency: It is advised for every three to six months after use depending on the level of usage.
Brand Comparison: Lippert vs. Carefree of Colorado
Here’s a brief comparison of two popular RV awning brands to help you make an informed decision:
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lippert | Known for durable, long-lasting products; wide range of sizes available | Higher price range |
| Carefree of Colorado | Affordable models with customization options | Some users report issues with motor reliability |
Installation and Maintenance Tips for Electric RV Awnings
Installation Process
While it’s possible to install an electric RV awning on your own, professional installation is often recommended due to the complexity of the motorized system. Here’s an outline of the process:
- Connecting the Motor: The motor needs to be connected to your RV’s electrical system. Professional help is advisable unless you’re confident in handling electrical work.
- Attaching the Awning Fabric: Slide the fabric into the mounting rails and secure it tightly.
- Testing the System: Once everything is in place, extend and retract the awning to ensure proper operation.
Read Also : Does Using an RV Green Key Break the Lock? : : How to Add an RV Holding Tank at Home?
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your electric RV awning is crucial to extending its lifespan and ensuring smooth operation. Here are some key maintenance tips:
1. Cleaning the Fabric
- Frequency: It is advised for every three to six months after use depending on the level of usage.
- Method: Avoid using strong detergents and avoid use of abrasive materials in cleaning them since they will damage the fabric strongly.
- Important: It’s important to dry the fabric thoroughly before retracting it to prevent them from developing mold and mildew at some point.
2. Inspect the Motor and Arms
- Check for Wear and Tear: Over time, the motor and retractable arms may show signs of wear. Inspect them regularly for any loose parts or strange noises.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Keeping the moving parts lubricated will ensure smoother operation and extend the life of the awning.
3. Storing the Awning During Off-Seasons
If you plan to store your RV during the off-season, make sure to retract the awning fully and cover it with a protective cover. This will protect it from harsh winter weather and prolong its life.
Troubleshooting Common Electric Awning Issues
Even with regular maintenance, issues can arise with electric awnings. Here are some of the most common problems and how to fix them.
1. Awning Won’t Extend or Retract
Causes:
- Power supply issues (blown fuse or dead battery)
- Faulty motor
Solutions:
- Check the Power Source: Ensure the RV’s electrical system is functioning and that the awning’s fuse isn’t blown.
- Inspect the Motor: If the motor is malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced.
Troubleshooting Common Electric Awning Issues (cont’d)
2. Awning Won’t Extend or Retract
Causes:
- Power supply issues (blown fuse or dead battery)
- Faulty motor
Solutions:
- Check the Power Source: Ensure the RV’s electrical system is functioning and that the awning’s fuse isn’t blown.
- Inspect the Motor: If the motor is malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced.
3. Awning Extends Unevenly
Causes:
- Misaligned awning arms
- Damaged or loose fabric
Solutions:
- Adjust the Awning Arms: Realign the arms and ensure that both sides are evenly extended.
- Check the Fabric Tension: If the awning fabric is loose or damaged, it can cause uneven extension. Tighten or replace the fabric as needed.
4. Awning is Stuck in Extended Position
Causes:
- Motor malfunction
- Obstruction in the awning arms
Solutions:
- Inspect the Motor: Check the motor’s wiring and fuses. If the motor is faulty, replacing it may be necessary.
- Clear Obstructions: Sometimes debris like leaves or branches can get stuck in the arms. Clear any blockages and try retracting the awning again.
5. Wind Sensor Issues
Causes:
- Faulty sensor calibration
- Electrical wiring problems
Solutions:
- Recalibrate the Sensor: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to recalibrate the wind sensor.
- Inspect the Wiring: Loose or damaged wires can cause sensor malfunctions. Check the connections and tighten or replace as necessary.
By staying vigilant about maintenance and troubleshooting these common problems, you can extend the lifespan of your electric RV awning and ensure it operates smoothly for years to come.
Conclusion: Is an Electric RV Awning Worth It?
Choosing to invest in an electric RV awning for your RV can significantly improve your Rving experience as it adds recreational value and luxury to your outdoor trips. If your car is at a beautiful campsite or even if you are only taking a break during the journey, it is much easier to set up an electric awning.
