Skip to content

Free RV manual

How to Use an RV Awning

Power and manual awnings, how to set them, and why wind is the thing that breaks them.

Power awnings

Most newer RVs have a power awning with a switch inside the door. Hold the switch to open it and let go when it stops. Many have a wind sensor that pulls the awning in on its own.

Keep the battery charged. The awning runs off 12 volt power, and a weak battery can leave it stuck halfway.

Manual awnings

Older and lighter trailers often have a manual awning with a pull strap and a travel lock on each arm. Unlock both arms, walk it out with the strap, then lock the arms at the height you want.

Set one end a little lower than the other so rain runs off. Water that pools on the fabric can bend the arms.

Wind is the enemy

Bring the awning in when you leave the site and before you go to bed. A gust in the night is how most awnings get torn off.

If you must leave it out in a light breeze, use tie down straps and stakes. Do not trust a wind sensor alone.

Care and storage

Never roll up a wet awning for more than a day. Open it again when you can and let it dry, or it will mildew.

Clean the fabric with a soft brush and mild soap. Skip bleach and harsh cleaners, which break down the fabric and stitching.

When to call a shop

Call a shop if an arm is bent, the fabric is torn at the roller, or a power awning clicks but does not move. Awning springs are under high tension and can hurt you.

The maker's own manuals

These guides cover how most RVs work. Your own rig may differ, so check the manual for your make and model.

Dometic · Fridges, air conditioners and awnings
Lippert · Slides, awnings, jacks and leveling
Every maker we link to

Renting from us? Call or text 909-259-RVDR before you try a fix. We would rather talk you through it than have you guess, and it is free.

The other manuals

ManualFresh water and the water heaterCity water, the fresh tank, the pump and the water heater. How to fill it, turn it on and keep it clean.5 parts ManualBlack and gray tanksThe order, the hose, the valves and what to put down the toilet. Dumping your tanks the right way, step by step.4 parts ManualShore power and batteries30 amp and 50 amp shore power, the 12 volt battery side and the inverter. What runs on what, and how not to trip a breaker.4 parts ManualPropane, furnace and fridgeOpening the tanks, lighting the stove, running the furnace and fridge, and what to do if you smell gas.5 parts ManualSlide outsWhen to open them, when not to, and what to check first. Slide outs are the most common repair on a rental, and most of it is avoidable.4 parts ManualWinterizing and spring start upDrain it, bypass the water heater and fill the lines with RV antifreeze. Then how to undo it all in spring.4 parts ManualGeneratorsStarting it, loading it, keeping it healthy, and staying safe from exhaust.4 parts ManualHitching a trailerCoupler, safety chains, breakaway cable and lights. A simple routine to hitch up the same way every time.4 parts ManualThe water heaterGas, electric or both. How to fill it, light it, drain it and care for the anode rod, plus what to do when there is no hot water.4 parts ManualThe refrigeratorGas and electric absorption fridges, 12 volt compressor fridges, how long they take to cool and how to keep food cold on the road.4 parts ManualThe roof air conditionerHow much power it needs, why it freezes up, how to clean the filters and what to try before you call for help.4 parts ManualThe furnaceA propane furnace with a 12 volt fan. How it starts, why it drains the battery and what to check when it blows cold air.4 parts ManualLeveling and jacksBlocks, tongue jacks, stabilizers and auto leveling. How to get level, why it matters and why stabilizers are not for lifting.4 parts ManualTires, wheels and bearingsTire age, pressure and load, lug nut torque and when to service trailer wheel bearings. The parts that cause the most trouble on the road.4 parts ManualTrailer brakes and breakawayElectric brakes, the brake controller in your truck, how to set the gain and how to test the breakaway switch.4 parts ManualRoof and sealsWater is the biggest enemy of an RV. How to check the roof and seams, which sealant to use and the signs of a leak.4 parts ManualThe toiletHow to flush, what paper to use and how to keep the black tank from clogging or smelling.4 parts ManualPropane, smoke and CO alarmsWhere each alarm is, what each one means, how to test them and why the propane alarm sometimes beeps on a low battery.4 parts ManualSolar and lithium batteriesHow solar charges your batteries, what lithium changes, and how to tell how much power you really have left.4 parts ManualTowing a car behind a motorhomeWhich cars can be towed four down, the gear you need, and the steps before and after every tow.4 parts ManualWeight and payloadWhat GVWR, cargo capacity and tongue weight mean, how to weigh your rig, and why sway almost always starts with weight.4 parts

Call us Text us