Are you looking to manually close your RV awning? Maybe the motor broke down or the battery died, and you need to close it manually? Well, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many RV enthusiasts face this situation at some point in their travels. So, in this post, we’ll walk you through the process of manually closing your RV awning step-by-step.
By the end of this post, you’ll be able to close your RV awning with confidence and ease, even without a motor’s help. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Prepare Your RV for Awning Closure
If you’re an avid RV camper, you know that sometimes things can go wrong unexpectedly. One of the things that can malfunction is the awning, and if that happens, you’ll need to know how to manually close it. Before you begin, it’s important to remember to turn off all power sources to your RV, as you’ll be working with electrical components.
First, locate the manual override for your awning. This is usually a lever located somewhere on the awning arm. Next, use a ladder to access the awning.
With the lever in hand, start winding the awning in the direction specified by the manufacturer. It may take some elbow grease, so be prepared to use some muscle. Once the awning is fully retracted, ensure that it is secure and locked in place before you continue your journey.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to have your awning inspected by a professional if you notice any malfunctions. By following these simple steps, you’ll be prepared for any unexpected awning closures and can continue to enjoy your RV adventures with peace of mind.
Secure Loose Items
Preparing your RV for awning closure is an essential task that ensures your property is safe from damage and loss. One crucial aspect of this preparation involves securing loose items. Before retracting your awning, take a moment to pack away any items that could be damaged or lost due to sudden movements or gusts of wind.
This might include chairs, tables, grills, and other outdoor equipment that you use while enjoying the great outdoors. Securing these items can help to prevent damage to your RV, as well as keeping your fellow travelers safe from any potential accidents. By taking a few extra minutes to prepare for awning closure in this way, you can enjoy your adventures without worrying about losing any important equipment or items.
Check for Obstructions
When it comes time to close up your RV’s awning, it’s important to ensure there are no obstructions in the way. This means checking for any stray branches, debris, or even animals that may have found their way onto or under the awning. If an obstruction goes unnoticed and you begin to close the awning, it could cause damage or even become a safety hazard.
Taking just a few extra minutes to double-check for obstructions can save you a lot of hassle and potentially expensive repairs down the line. So before you begin closing up your RV, take a quick walk around to make sure everything is clear and safe.
Unlock the Awning
If you’re an RV owner, it’s important to know how to manually close your awning in case of an emergency or if your motor fails. First, locate the awning arms and ensure that they are released from their locked position. Then, use a long rod or tool to turn the hand crank located on the awning roller.
Continue turning the crank until the awning is completely closed. It’s important to note that manually closing the awning should only be done in an emergency, as it can be difficult and may cause damage to the awning if not done correctly. Regular maintenance and care of your awning can help avoid such situations.
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with manually closing your awning, seek the help of a professional technician. With these tips, you’ll be equipped for any situation that may arise while on the road.
Locate Awning Lock
If you’re trying to unlock your awning, the first step is to locate the awning lock. This might seem obvious, but sometimes it can be tricky to find. Generally, the lock will be located somewhere on the awning itself, near the bottom.
You may need to crouch down or get on your hands and knees to locate it. Once you’ve found the lock, you’ll need to insert your key and turn it to the unlock position. If you don’t have a key, you may need to contact the manufacturer or a professional locksmith to get a replacement or have the lock rekeyed.
Remember, unlocking your awning is essential if you want to retract it properly and safely. By taking the time to locate and unlock the awning lock, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space in no time.
Release Awning Lock
If you’re on a camping trip and need to open your awning, the first thing you’ll want to do is release the awning lock. The awning lock is a mechanism that keeps your awning firmly in place when it’s rolled up. It’s usually located at one end of the awning and can be released by pulling or turning a lever.
Before releasing the awning lock, be sure to unlock any straps or buckles that may be securing the awning in place. Once the lock is released, gently pull or unwind the awning until it’s fully extended. Always be cautious when releasing the awning lock, as sudden movements or jerks can damage the awning or cause it to unfurl too quickly.
With a bit of care and attention, you’ll be able to release the awning lock and enjoy the shade and shelter it provides in no time!
Roll Up the Awning
If you’re an avid RVer, there will come a time when you need to manually close your awning. Whether it’s due to a sudden thunderstorm or a mechanical failure, knowing how to do this correctly can save you money and headaches down the road. The first step in closing your awning manually is to remove any debris or obstacles, such as chairs or tables, from underneath it.
Next, locate the tension adjustment knob and loosen it until you can safely roll up the awning by hand. Once you’ve rolled the awning up completely, tighten the knob to keep it in place. Remember to take your time and be careful throughout the process, as even a small mistake can lead to costly damage.
By following these simple steps, you can safely and easily close your RV awning manually whenever you need to.
Turn the Crank
If you’re an RV owner, one of the most important skills you’ll need to learn is how to roll up your awning. When it’s time to hit the road, that awning needs to be securely stored away. This is where the humble crank handle comes in.
Attaching the crank to the awning winding mechanism allows you to roll up the awning with ease. It may seem daunting at first, especially if you’re new to RV living, but it’s a relatively straightforward process that quickly becomes second nature. The key is to keep the crank handle attached to the winding mechanism while you work.
This will ensure that the awning is rolled up evenly and securely. Remember to take your time and be patient, and before long, you’ll be an awning-rolling pro. So, turn that crank with confidence and enjoy your travels!
Secure the Awning
One important step in securing your outdoor awning is to roll it up properly. This not only prevents damage from strong winds and storms, but it also adds an extra layer of security to protect your home. To roll up the awning, start by releasing the tension in the fabric and retracting the arms.
Next, use a hook or strap to secure the rolled-up fabric to the arms, keeping it in place. This will prevent the awning from flapping around and potentially causing damage. It’s important to make sure the awning is rolled up tightly and stored in a safe place, such as under a cover or in a garage, during periods of intense weather.
By following these steps, you can ensure your awning stays secure and in good condition for years to come.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. Closing an RV awning manually may seem daunting at first, but with a little bit of elbow grease and some determination, you can conquer this task like a seasoned outdoor adventurer. And who knows, maybe you’ll even impress your fellow campers with your newfound awning-closing skills.
So go forth and conquer, my friends, and may your awnings always provide ample shade and protection from the elements!”
FAQs
What is an RV awning?
An RV awning is a retractable cover that extends from the side of an RV to provide shade and protection from the sun and rain.
How do I manually close my RV awning?
To manually close your RV awning, first make sure that the awning arms are securely locked into place. Then, use a hand crank to turn the awning roller until the awning is fully retracted.
Can I close my RV awning in the rain?
It is not recommended to close your RV awning in the rain, as this can cause water to get trapped and potentially damage the awning or RV. It is best to wait until the rain has stopped and the awning has had a chance to dry before retracting it.
How often should I clean my RV awning?
It is recommended to clean your RV awning at least once a year, or more frequently if it becomes visibly dirty or stained. Use a mild soap and water solution to gently scrub the awning, then rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before retracting.
What should I do if my RV awning won’t retract?
If your RV awning won’t retract, first check to make sure that the awning arms are securely locked into place. If this doesn’t solve the problem, it may be due to a malfunctioning motor or other mechanical issue, and you may need to contact a professional for repairs.
Is it safe to leave my RV awning open overnight?
While it is generally safe to leave your RV awning open overnight, it is always recommended to retract it in extreme weather conditions or if you will be away from your RV for an extended period of time.
How do I prevent my RV awning from flapping in the wind?
To prevent your RV awning from flapping in the wind, make sure it is securely anchored and tensioned. You can also use an accessory such as a de-flapper to further secure the awning and prevent flapping.
