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To use your RV awning, check the surrounding clearance, extend it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust its pitch if equipped and required. Retract it before strong winds, heavy rain or leaving the campsite unattended. Your awning provides shade, but it is not an all-weather shelter. Knowing its controls and limits helps prevent damage and makes campsite setup easier.
RV awnings vary in design. Some operate manually, while others use a wall switch, remote or integrated control system. Pitch adjustments, travel locks and emergency retraction procedures also differ.
Before your first trip, locate the awning manufacturer’s instructions and identify:
Read these instructions while conditions are calm. If the awning binds, moves unevenly or makes an unfamiliar noise, release the control and investigate before continuing.
Do not force a damaged mechanism or disassemble an arm or roller assembly.
Walk around the awning side of your RV before operating it.
Look above and beside the area for branches, utility posts, neighboring RVs and other obstacles. Check clearance for the entry door, slide-outs and any nearby equipment.
Move chairs, tables and people clear of the arms and roller. Keep hands and clothing away from hinges and other pinch points.
Consider the awning’s full reach, not just the space directly beside the RV. A clear mounting area does not guarantee that the roller will clear an obstacle farther out.
Release any required travel locks before extending.
For a powered awning, use the designated control and watch the fabric and arms throughout movement. Stop at the position specified by the manufacturer rather than continuing to hold the switch after full extension.
Some powered designs can roll the fabric backward if operated beyond the correct extension point. If the fabric orientation looks wrong, stop and follow your model’s correction procedure. Do not assume that continuing to run the motor will resolve it.
For manual awnings, follow the required sequence for releasing, extending and securing the assembly. Powered and manual systems do not share one universal setup method.
Some awnings have adjustable pitch arms or an automatic rain-dump feature. These are different mechanisms, so confirm which design your RV has.
Where manual pitch adjustment is permitted, lower one end as directed to encourage runoff. Choose a drainage direction that avoids the entry area, while maintaining clearance between the fabric and door.
Set the pitch before water accumulates. Do not manually adjust a loaded awning with pooled water, snow or debris; follow the manufacturer’s instructions for addressing that condition.
A rain-dump or tilt feature does not make the awning suitable for heavy or prolonged rain. If your awning does not permit rain exposure, retract it when rain begins.
Wind and rain can damage an extended awning quickly. Retract it before conditions deteriorate, while it can still be operated safely.
Close the awning:
Do not rely on tie-downs to make an awning storm-resistant. Some free-floating arm designs specifically prohibit tying down the roller because it interferes with their operation.
Check compatibility before adding screens, shade panels or room enclosures. Unsupported accessories or improper use may damage the assembly and affect related warranty coverage.
A slide-out topper is separate from the patio awning. If equipped, it typically extends and retracts with the slide room.
Before closing the room, inspect the topper for branches, leaves and other debris. Follow the topper manufacturer’s instructions for clearing it without damaging the fabric or mechanism.
Watch for pooled water after rain. Keep people clear of areas where water may spill during retraction.
Stop if the topper binds, rolls unevenly or prevents normal slide movement. Do not continue operating the slide to force an obstruction through.
Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your specific fabric. Use approved products and avoid tools or chemicals that could damage its surface or seams.
Inspect accessible fabric and hardware for tears, loose attachments or other visible damage.
If weather requires you to retract a wet awning, do so. Once conditions are safe, extend it again and let it dry before storing it for an extended period. This helps reduce mildew associated with accumulated dirt and moisture.
Retract the awning completely and verify that the arms are seated against the RV. Engage any required travel locks.
Check that accessories have been removed or stowed as instructed. If the awning will not close or secure properly, arrange assistance before traveling.
Wind, rain and improper-use damage may be excluded from warranty coverage. Review your RV and awning warranty documents for the terms that apply.
Review your Owner’s Manual and awning manufacturer’s instructions before your next campsite setup.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be true and accurate at the time of publication. However, due to the evolving nature of our products and services, there may be changes or updates that occur after this article was published. We encourage users to verify the contents and consult with their dealer or Keystone RV for the most current information. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or reach out to Keystone RV directly.