Category: RV Maintenance

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Picking The Right RV Sealant

As an RV owner, taking care of your roof is one of the most important maintenance tasks you’ll undertake. A properly maintained roof ensures that your RV stays dry and free from leaks, which can cause significant damage and cost a lot of money to repair. One of the most important decisions you’ll make in maintaining your RV roof is selecting the right sealant. Two popular options are Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW and Sikaflex 221. In this blog post, we’ll compare the pros and cons of both products so you can decide which one is right for you.

As mentioned earlier, the roof of your RV is one of the most important components of the vehicle. It protects you and your belongings from the elements, and a leaky roof can cause significant damage to your RV’s interior. Choosing the right sealant is critical in ensuring that your RV stays dry and protected.

Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is a popular choice among RV owners because it is specifically designed for use on rubber roofs. Rubber roofs are a common type of roofing material used in RVs because they are lightweight, durable, and flexible. Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is safe to use on rubber roofs and will not cause any chemical reactions that can damage the rubber membrane.

One of the benefits of Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is that it is easy to apply. This sealant is self-levelling, which means that it will spread out evenly on your roof, ensuring complete coverage. This makes it easy to apply, even if you don’t have much experience with roof maintenance. It is also long-lasting and can withstand harsh weather conditions, reducing the frequency of sealant reapplication.

Sikaflex 221, on the other hand, is a popular sealant option that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including tin, aluminum, fiberglass, and plastic. It is a versatile sealant and is fast-curing, making it a good option for RV owners who want to get their maintenance tasks done quickly.

However, it is important to note that Sikaflex 221 is not specifically designed for use on rubber roofs. Using Sikaflex 221 on rubber roofs can cause a chemical reaction with the rubber membrane, leading to damage or even failure of the roof. This is why Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is the better option for rubber roofs.

Additionally, Sikaflex 221 can be messy to apply. Unlike Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW, it is not self-levelling, which means that you’ll need to be careful when applying it to ensure that it doesn’t drip or smear. This can make the application process more time-consuming and challenging, especially for those who are not experienced in RV roof maintenance.

In conclusion, when it comes to selecting a sealant for your RV roof, it is essential to choose a product that is safe to use on your specific type of roofing material. For rubber roofs, Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is the better option as it is specifically designed for this type of roof and is safe to use. Sikaflex 221 is a versatile sealant that can be used on a variety of surfaces, but it is not recommended for rubber roofs due to the potential for chemical reactions with the rubber membrane. It is important to do your research and choose a sealant that is appropriate for your RV’s roof to ensure that it stays protected and leak-free for years to come.

If you have any questions about choosing the right RV sealant for your next RV repair, or need the assistance of our service department for installation of the sealant and upkeep on your RV roof, we are standing by to help!

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Things To Keep An Eye Out For Before RV Season Begins

As the weather turns warmer and the days get longer, many RV owners are beginning to think of the upcoming RV season and all the fun it’s sure to bring! Making memories at the campsite with your friends and family is fun and rewarding, but only if you take time to plan ahead! Don’t get caught with surprise repairs and adventure-ruining issues by keeping an eye on these items:

Check Your Awning Fabric

While normally safe while stored away for the winter, it’s an awful feeling to roll your awning out at the campsite and find the material full of holes or cracks. Before the summer rush, make sure to extend your awning and check the condition of the material and ensure that the arms and hardware move freely with little resistance. If you notice any issues, now is an excellent time to book a service appointment and get these resovled!

clean your water lines with purge cleaner

Your RV’s water system holds a lot of water! It is both quite possible and extremely common to develop issues over time with smelly or odd-tasting water. It’s annoying to deal with, and brings the added expense and hassle of having to purchase water bottles or jugs each time you go camping. Instead, flush your RV’s tank and lines with Purge Tank Cleanser! This will remove all the bacteria and other gunk that builds up and causes these odors, all without using harmful chemicals or bleaches.

Test Fire Your Appliances

Before you get out on the road, it’s a great idea to test fire all your appliances to ensure their safe and consistent operation. After making sure you have a fully charged battery and a good supply of propane, try lighting your appliances one by one and make sure they stay running without issue. If you do encounter any problems, Edmonton RV can help you diagnose and resolve them!

These are just a few of the many things you should keep in mind as RV season approaches. If you have any questions about how to prepare for the season or care for your RV, our Parts and Service team is standing by to help you!

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RV Parts and Accessories that Make Winter Camping Cozier

You’re thinking about extending your camping season into the winter. However, winter
camping is no joke, and you need to know exactly what you are doing to be successful.
That being said, some people really enjoy winter camping despite the weather.

If you are planning on going winter camping, there are some RV parts and accessories you
are going to want that will make your winter camping experience cozier! When done right,
winter camping can be majestic and an experience of a lifetime. Visit us today for all the
RV parts and accessories you need!

RV Parts and Accessories for Winter Camping

To be successful, you need to make sure your RV is equipped for the cold harsh weather
that comes in the winter months. These RV parts and accessories will help you be
comfortable and successful on your camping trip.

Skirting

Good skirting for your RV is a must-have. Decide how much you will be moving your RV
during the winter to help you narrow down what kind of skirting you need. Pro tip: pile
snow around the skirting to provide additional insulation.

Insulation

You need to insulate your RV as much as possible. Purchasing cold weather caulking as
well as heavy-duty curtains for at night. During the day, to enjoy the view, use clear plastic
shrink insulation that will give you a clear view and keep the cold out. Don’t forget to
insulate the vents as well.

Space Heater

Regardless of the furnace you have in your RV, a good, safe space heater will be a need.
RVs aren’t particularly known for being warm in the winter, so do not rely solely on the
furnace for heat. Get a heater that is at least 4000-9000 BTU.

AC Unit Cover

Make sure that when you are winter camping you protect your AC unit. You will want it
working when you go camping in the summer, so make sure to get a good cover that will
protect it from the elements. A cover with a drawcord will be a better fit for your AC unit.

Anti-Freeze

Getting RV-ready anti-freeze will save you time and effort as you don’t have to dilute it. A
good non-toxic form of anti-freeze will also protect your kids and your pets from getting
sick. Make sure to get one that is good up to -50C so that your pipes and tank do not
burst.

Rugs

It is a good idea to put rugs in your RV if you don’t already have some. These will help to
keep the floor insulated. Another good idea is to buy a rug pad for underneath the rugs to
help provide additional padding and insulation so that your feet stay warm.


Going Winter Camping?

Whether you are an experienced winter camper or not, you could always use some good
advice from a professional. Come talk to us at Edmonton RV, we can help you decided
which RV parts and accessories you need.  We are always ready and willing to help you
have a successful camping trip, no matter what season.

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RV Services to Do Before Winter Camping

Camping is a lot of fun no matter what season! Winters can be harsh and cruel, but that
doesn’t mean you should shy away from going winter camping. Camping in the winter can
be a truly memorable and thrilling experience! However, you need to perform the proper
RV service on your RV before you consider taking to the harsh climate. Call us today to
book your RV in for service.


RV Service for Winter Camping


You want to perform a few crucial RV services to help prepare your RV for winter
camping. These things include making sure your water doesn’t freeze, or that cold
temperatures damage your RV. Another thing to consider is making sure you are toasty
warm, no matter how cold it is outside.


RV Engine


There is some extra protection your engine is going to need to handle the winter
temperatures. Make sure that you inspect the battery for damage and check that it is fully
charged and securely connected. You also want to check that the antifreeze is full and
ensure you have a good block heater.


Insulation

Winter is terrible for drafts getting through any possible opening. Be sure to check all the
seals in the RV to ensure that they are not allowing any air to get through. Then, you want
to add additional insulation to help keep you toasty warm. Don’t just insulate the outside
of the RV! You want to insulate the underneath as well. By insulating underneath, you are
helping to protect pipes from freezing, and keeping heat in.

  • Use reflective covers for the windows.
  • Seal and caulk all windows and doors
  • Use heavy curtains
  • Put foam board underneath carpets
  • Get an RV skirt

Plumbing

Pipes freezing is one of the most common issues when winter camping. Therefore, you
want to make sure to insulate the pipes and hoses to keep them from cracking and
bursting in the cold. Add heat tape to the pipes, keep cupboards open for heat distribution
and keep the water running, even a little, to keep the water moving.
Another good option is getting an internal water tank. Using your own water tanks means
you don’t have to connect to water externally, which helps prevent it from freezing. Get a
space heater that can help to keep things warm and add a small amount of antifreeze to
any holding tanks.


Furnace

Make sure to thoroughly inspect your RV furnace to make sure that it doesn’t have any
issues. You are going to want a good working furnace, especially in very cold
temperatures. Also, additional heat sources couldn’t hurt.


Going Winter Camping?

If you are going winter camping, you want to gain as much information as possible before
you head out. Come down to Edmonton RV to gain some useful knowledge from our
experts before you go winter camping! We know what type of RV service you need to
have a successful winter camping trip.

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Your RV Winterization Service Checklist

The saddest time of year for every RV-loving enthusiast is when it is time to put your RV away for the winter months. Though you can go RVing during the winter, you do need to take some extra precautions with your RV when the weather turns cold.

As the seasons change there is some specialized RV service you need to perform to keep your RV in good shape for the coming season. If you are experienced or new to RVing, you need to know that parking isn’t enough. Call Edmonton RV today to book your winter service.

Winterize your RV

Here are some RV service tips to help you prepare your RV for the coming colder months.

Winterize the Water System

One of the most important RV service tips is to winterize the water system. The last thing you need is for the pipes to burst. Your RV will come with specific instructions for winterizing the water system of your specific RV model. You want to follow those instructions exactly for the safekeeping of your RV.

Wax the Exterior

To protect your RV from the harsh winter elements, it is a good idea to apply a layer of wax to the outside shell of your RV. You want to purchase a good quality wax that will protect your RV from the ice and cold. If you notice any cracks while applying the wax, be sure to use a good sealant to fix those to prevent additional damage.

Service Locks and Hinges

Check all the locks and hinges on the RV. By taking a few minutes to lubricate all the hinges and locks in your RV, you will be saving yourself a lot of time come spring. A good layer of oil like WD40 will protect the hinges and locks and keep them from seizing. Once you open up again, you will find that you won’t be fighting the door or the locks because of this step. 

Remove the Batteries

A good way to drain your batteries is by leaving them inside the RV all winter long. Not only will you drain the power, but they won’t hold a charge as long when you start up your RV again. Make sure to remove them and place them in a safe, dry spot for the winter.

Clean Up

One of the most trivial but important things you can do is thoroughly clean the inside of your RV before packing it away for the winter. Not only will it help to prevent critters from finding it appealing, but you will be thankful that you did when you take it out again for a new camping season.

Need More RV Service Tips?

If you are unsure of what else you need to do to winterize your RV, or you’re not sure which product will work best when winterizing, come see us at Edmonton RV. Our experts will help you get your RV winter ready.

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RV Repairs that You are Likely to Come Across

Whether you are new to RV life or an experienced camper, you know that repairs will be needed from time to time like any other vehicle. These issues are pretty much unavoidable as wear and tear can happen on any vehicle. RV repairs can be costly, so being able to get ahead of common RV repairs is crucial. Call Edmonton RV to book your repair today.

Common RV Repairs

It is always a good idea to know what kinds of issues can arise with your RV so that you learn to recognize them and take action before it becomes a more significant issue.

Roof Leak

At times, your RV may experience a leak in the roof. It’s not surprising that a leak will happen as the roof of your RV withstands a lot of pressure. Most commonly, leaky roofs are a result of cracked seals. Therefore, you want to make sure to do a thorough inspection of your roof every season and at least once mid-season. Make sure to reseal any possible hazard areas.

Electrical Issues

Another common issue with your RV will be electrical. Storing your RV through winter can make it enticing to critters who chew cords. Even without critters, issues can always arise. You must regularly check wires for fraying or corrosion. As always, a certified electrician should be consulted.

Plumbing Clogs

You want to regularly rinse through your plumbing to keep it safe from clogs. A few common mistakes would be to use too much toilet paper or let sludge build-up in the holding tank. Once a clog arises, you need to snake the system to dislodge it.

Vehicle Issues

There are all kinds of common issues that you will experience with your RV that you would also see in your car. Brakes, lights, oil changes, batteries, all these things need to be check when taking your RV out of storage. You always want to fix issues as they arise to prevent further issues from developing. Always check your tires, lights, and batteries to ensure that that they are in good shape.

Get a Professional Opinion on RV Repairs

Your RV is just as important to you as your car. Therefore, you need to be vigilant of potential issues that can come up. Each issue above is every day RV situations you might find yourself in. By learning to identify common issues, you will be well on your way to keeping your RV in tip-top shape.

As always, if you need a professional’s opinion, feel free to contact us at Edmonton RV. Our team of professionals can help you address common issues and quickly do an RV repair.

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How the Pros Handle RV Awning Repairs

You are driving around looking for the perfect spot to park your RV. You find it and are just starting to get comfortable when you spot a large tear in your awning. You know you need RV awning repair but aren’t sure you can take care of this one yourself. For expert guidance, call the pros at Edmonton RV today!

How do the Professionals Handle RV Awning Repair?

The first thing you want to do before handling any repair is to find out the source of the tear. All kinds of things can cause your awning issues. Here are a few of them:

  • The craftmanship of the awning could be of poor quality because it was a cheaper camper.
  • Some loose strings could get snagged and cause a rip in the fabric.
  • General age, tear, and wear can cause the awning to break down naturally.
  • Driving along and flying rocks, sticks, or other potentially sharp objects can be the cause of the tear.
  • The weather can impact your awning significantly; strong wind, hail, snow, or other severe weather can cause tears in the fabric.

How to Repair your Awning

There are a few steps a professional would follow when doing an RV awning repair. You want to follow those same steps.

  1. Assess the damage of the awning and determine what kind of repair is necessary. Could a simple patch suffice, or do you have to do a more significant repair?
  2. Remove the awning from its current perch on your RV. You can’t repair anything without first removing the awning. This will also give you more freedom to move around the material and fix it properly. Some latch-like locks may attach to your awning; make sure to remove those and carefully execute the awnings descent.
  3. Once you have the awning in your hands, it is the perfect time to check for smaller holes that can be repaired easily before tackling the larger one. Do a thorough check of the entire surface of the awning.
  4. Next, you want to tackle any larger holes. Determine if sewing it is enough or if a larger patch is necessary. You want to use a similar fabric as the awning when making repairs to ensure the integrity of the awning remains intact.

Always know that you should thoroughly clean the awning before any repairs get done. If a patch is required, you will need the awning perfectly clean so that it can adhere adequately and seal correctly. Also, when placing patches, make sure to remove any air bubbles so that the patch seals securely.

Learn More about RV Awning Repair

If you need more tips on RV awning repair, come down and talk to the professionals at Edmonton RV. Our team can guide you on what to do with a damaged awning.

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How to Prep for an RV Service Visit

You want your RV to stay in good shape for years to come, and regular service checks are the way to achieve that. Preventative repairs can help make your camping season a stress-free one as it will minimize the chances of something significant going wrong.

RV service isn’t the same as the service you would regularly perform on your car. However, you don’t need to stress out over taking your RV to be serviced. If you are going to service your RV, here are a few things you can do to make it a seamless activity. Call us today to book your RV in for service with our experts!

Prepare for RV Service with these Tips

Find RV Services Near You

You don’t want to trust your RV service to just anyone, and any mistake can be costly and cause irreparable damage to your RV. Therefore, you want to shop around, check with some professionals who know their stuff, and find a service provider that makes you feel comfortable.

Determine Which RV Service to Schedule

Regular service of your RV is necessary. To save time and extra expenses, know what RV service you need to be done and what can wait. Has it been a season since you changed the oil? When was the last time you had the tires checked? What about the brakes?

You want to make sure that everything necessary to keep your RV running is checked correctly. Everything from changing spark plugs to testing the battery should be regular services, including changing out brake lights and headlights.

If you service your RV regularly, some of these services listed above might not be necessary. It is always a good idea for you to check your RV user manual to see what kinds of services need to be done and at what intervals. Sometimes it will be when you reach a specific kilometer reading, and other times the age of the RV will do it.

Lastly, fluids such as oil, transmission fluid, and anti-freeze, and the like are generally done at certain yearly intervals.

When to Service your RV

As listed above, your user manual will give you a general idea of performing certain services. Another good rule of thumb is to have your RV serviced before the season and at the end of the season, and regular service checks will help prevent significant issues from arising.

Are You Still Worried?

If you are still stressing about your RV service, then you can get in touch with us at Edmonton RV. Our professionals have been performing service for years, and we know just what to look for to keep your RV in proper running condition. Book with us now!

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Your Ultimate RV Service Checklist Before You Hit the Road this Summer

Traveling in your RV is a great way for you to explore the great outdoors this summer. There are all kinds of places around Edmonton that you can go camping. With so many different camping options over the summer, you want to ensure your RV is in perfect condition before hitting the road.

To be ready for the summer months, you need to perform some RV service that will help maintain your RV for the whole season. Additionally, regular maintenance will keep your RV running for many years. Book your RV in for service with us today!

Perform These RV Services Before Hitting the Road

  • Make sure to get these services done on your RV before you head out camping this summer so that you can have a seamless camping experience.
  • Clean out your RV. One of the most menial but necessary chores to do for your RV is to clean it. You want to wash the outside of your RV, giving it a good cleansing. While you wash, you can check for cracks or other issues that will need attention. Furthermore, you will prevent mold and mildew from growing on your RV, which can have long-term damaging effects.
  • Check all the lights on your RV. Both interior and exterior lights will need your attention but specifically, check your headlights and brake lights. In most places, it is illegal to have a headlight or brake light that doesn’t work, so you want to make sure these lights are checked and replaced if need be. Once done, you can check the rest of the lights on your RV.
  • RV tire care is also necessary. Check your tires for cracking, fading or wear and tear. You also want to be sure to check the tire pressure so that it is adequate. Replace any tires that need replacing. Another thing you want to check out is that your spare tire is also in good shape. It is always a good idea to replace the spare every time you change the primary tires.
  • Survey the roof and clean it of all debris. Your RV roof is essential to your comfort. You want to make sure there is no debris up there that can fall on other cars as you drive. Furthermore, you want to check for cracks in the seals, especially the skylight. Fix any damage that you notice on the roof. Give your RV roof a good cleaning and apply UV protection to it. You can apply the same protection to the rest of the RV as well.

Get Professional Help

When performing RV service, check with a professional if you come across something you aren’t familiar with. Our team at Edmonton RV is experienced in all things RV-related and can help you keep your RV in good shape for years to come. Book your RV service with us today and get on the road sooner!

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Common RV Repairs You’ll Likely Face at Some Point

Owning an RV can be very relaxing. It gives you a chance to commune with nature and enjoys the great outdoors in comfort. Once in a while, your RV is going to need some repairs. Knowing how to spot common RV repairs yourself can help keep the stress at bay and the relaxation going.  When it comes to your RV, you want to be sure that you are well prepared for potential repairs you will have to perform to keep it in good shape.  Visit us today for everything you need to handle simple RV repairs on your own or call us to book your rig in for service.

Water Lines and Water Pumps

There is always something that can cause an issue with the water lines and pumps. Mainly these issues arise due to wear and tear intense water pressure, or cold weather. Freezing temps can easily burst water lines when not emptied. During camping season, though, your biggest concern will probably be water pressure or wear and tear. Despite your best efforts, water line damage is typical in RVs.

User Error

If you are not familiar with RVs or you just got a new one, user errors can lead to repairs. If it happens, these are relatively small RV repair issues and can be easily fixed. Don’t beat yourself up if you happen to pull too hard on the awning or misuse the pump. Making random mistakes is so common that pretty much everyone who has an RV has made them.

Toilet Issues

While camping, there are a variety of options for restroom usage. You can go into the woods, use the campground facilities, or use the bathroom in your RV. All these are viable options for you. One advantage to the woods or the campground restroom is that you avoid toilet issues in your RV. Typical RV bathroom issues include wear and tear, water not flowing correctly, water constantly running or overflowing. Fix toilet issues as soon as they arise to prevent further damage.

Tire Issues

Like any other vehicle, your RV tires are going to need regular care. You want to make sure they are not wearing thin, cracking, or fading. You also want to check the air pressure regularly. Despite your best efforts, you may still end up with a flat tire. Therefore, you want to prepare yourself for common tire grievances that will arise without a doubt.

Are You Concerned About RV Repairs?

If you are worried about what to do when needing RV repairs, then you need a good team by your side who knows what they are doing. Talk to our experts at Edmonton RV. We know exactly what to expect and we will alleviate your concerns.