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RV Awning Care, Operation, and Maintenance Tips


Your RV awning provides shade at camp, but it needs careful operation, regular cleaning, and attention to changing weather. Keep its path clear, supervise extension and retraction, and stow it before unfavorable conditions arrive or you leave the campsite. Follow the instructions for your specific awning rather than relying on a universal wind limit or maintenance routine.

How do you operate your RV awning?

Park, level, and stabilize your RV before setting up the awning. Check for branches, nearby vehicles, and other obstructions, and keep people clear of moving arms.

  • Manual awnings: Follow the required sequence for travel locks, roller controls, support arms, and braces. Procedures vary by model.
  • Power awnings: Watch the awning throughout its movement and release the control when it reaches the specified position.
  • Either type: Stop if the awning binds, moves unevenly, or makes unusual noises. Do not force it.

Before traveling, verify that the awning is fully retracted and any required travel locks are secured.

When should you retract your awning?

Do not treat 15–20 mph as a universal safe wind threshold. Gusts and changing conditions can damage an awning, and operating limits depend on its design.

  • Retract it before strong winds, storms, or heavy rain arrive.
  • Stow it before leaving the campsite or going to sleep.
  • Do not rely solely on an automatic wind sensor.
  • Keep heat sources and open flames away from the fabric.

Awnings primarily provide shade. Wind and rain effects can be unpredictable, so follow the manufacturer’s weather precautions. carefreeofcolorado.com

If your model permits pitch adjustment, follow its instructions for drainage and any settings required before retraction. Do not improvise adjustments or stand beneath pooled water.

How should you clean awning fabric?

Regular rinsing helps keep dirt from becoming embedded. For a more thorough cleaning:

  1. Extend the awning in suitable weather.
  2. Rinse away loose debris with fresh water.
  3. Clean gently using the soap, tools, and method approved for your fabric.
  4. Rinse thoroughly and air-dry before retracting.

Cleaning requirements can differ between vinyl and acrylic fabrics. Avoid harsh or abrasive products, and use bleach only if the fabric manufacturer specifically permits it.

If weather requires you to retract the awning while wet, reopen it to dry as soon as conditions safely allow. Lippert Components

What hardware needs inspection?

Check accessible arms, brackets, fasteners, and fabric attachment areas for damage, looseness, or unusual wear. Keep arm channels and moving areas free of dirt and debris.

Lubricate only the points specified by the manufacturer, using its approved product. Dry silicone is appropriate for some awning joints, but it is not a universal treatment for every component.

Arrange service if the awning retracts unevenly, hardware is damaged, or cleaning does not resolve binding. Avoid disassembling spring-loaded components yourself.

Where can you find instructions for your awning?

Identify the manufacturer and model installed on your RV. Owner resources are available from:

Your Keystone Owner’s Manual also provides awning guidance. Use the component manufacturer’s instructions for detailed operating, cleaning, and adjustment procedures.

Have a memorable awning moment to share? Send your story to iamkeystonenation@keystonerv.com.