How Do You Use an RV Awning?

Using an RV awning is a straightforward process, primarily depending on whether you have a manual or electric model. RV awnings provide crucial shade, protect from light rain, and significantly expand your outdoor living space at your campsite.

Operating an Electric RV Awning

Electric RV awnings are designed for ease of use, typically requiring just the push of a button.

1. Locate the Control Switch: The control switch for an electric awning is usually found inside your RV, often near the entrance door or on a main control panel. It will typically have "Extend" and "Retract" or "Out" and "In" buttons.
2. Clear the Area: Before extending, ensure there are no obstructions, such as trees, poles, or other vehicles, in the path of the awning's extension.
3. Extend the Awning: Press and hold the "Extend" or "Out" button. The awning will smoothly roll out from its housing. Many electric awnings have an automatic stop when fully extended, but some may require you to release the button once it's out.
4. Adjust Pitch (Optional): Some electric awnings allow for manual adjustment of the pitch (angle) of the awning arms to aid water runoff or provide more shade. This is typically done by loosening and tightening knobs on the support arms.
5. Retract the Awning: To retract, press and hold the "Retract" or "In" button. The awning will roll back into its housing. Always retract your awning before driving away or during adverse weather conditions.

Operating a Manual RV Awning

Manual RV awnings, while requiring a bit more physical effort, are durable and effective.

1. Unlock the Awning: First, locate the travel locks or latches on the awning arms or roller tube. Release these locks to allow the awning to extend.
2. Release the Tension: Use the provided awning pull strap or an awning rod to grab the loop on the roller tube. Pull down gently to release the spring tension.
3. Extend the Awning: While holding the strap/rod, slowly walk backward, guiding the awning out from its housing. The support arms will begin to unfold.
   • Practical Insight: As noted in the provided reference from How To: Operate an RV Awning - YouTube (2:33), extending or retracting manual awnings can unfortunately require a little more work. It is significantly easier and often recommended to have two people assist with this process to ensure smooth operation and prevent potential issues. One person can guide the roller tube while the other manages the arms.
4. Deploy and Secure the Arms: Once the awning is mostly extended, pull the support arms down and out, locking them into their upright position. You may need to adjust the length of the vertical support legs and secure them to the side of the RV or to the ground if they are free-standing.
5. Adjust Pitch: Adjust the height of each arm independently to achieve the desired pitch for water runoff or shade. Lock the arm adjustments securely.
6. Retract the Awning: To retract, unlock the support arms, collapse them, and carefully guide the awning back into its housing using the pull strap/rod. Ensure the awning is fully rolled in and secure the travel locks before moving the RV.

Essential Tips for RV Awning Care and Usage

Proper use and maintenance will extend the life of your RV awning.

• Weather Watch: Always retract your awning during strong winds, heavy rain, hail, or any severe weather. Even a light breeze can cause significant damage.
• Pitch for Drainage: Always set your awning with a slight pitch or slope to allow rainwater to run off, preventing water from pooling and stretching the fabric.
• Clean Regularly: Clean your awning fabric periodically to prevent mold, mildew, and stains. Use RV-specific awning cleaners.
• Secure During Travel: Ensure your awning is fully retracted and securely locked before driving your RV.
• Avoid Hanging Items: Do not hang heavy items from your awning arms or fabric, as this can cause damage.
• Mind Your Surroundings: Be aware of low branches or other obstacles that could snag or tear your awning when extending or retracting.

Awning Type Comparison