Category: RV Maintenance

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Can You Tackle Your RV Awning Repair on Your Own?

One of the best accessories on your RV is the awning. Not only does it make the front look good, but it provides you shade in areas where you might not have much. The awning is going to give you a designated outdoor space to hang out in when you are out camping.

Inspecting your awning regularly is a part of keeping your RV in tip-top shape. There are all kinds of things that can cause damage to your awning. No matter the size of the shape, you want to learn how to perform basic RV awning repair when you notice any sort of defect. Visit us today to ask for expert advice or book a repair.

Awning Damage

Pretty much anything can cause awning damage to occur. Maybe a tear from a small branch developed, or when put away for the year, you didn’t notice it was a bit wet, and mildew appeared. Untreated fabric can quickly rot. Another huge factor that causes awning damage is wind and the sun. Constant exposure to the elements can cause your awning to wear down over time. It is just a matter of time before you need to perform proper awning repair.

Do Your Own RV Awning Repair

It is possible to fix many types of awning damage yourself. The first thing you want to do is start by washing your awning correctly and using a spray bottle with the proper mix of water and soap (usually a 1 to 4 soap to water ratio). Spray down the entire awning, both top, and underside. Let your awning sit rolled up. After a bit of time, unroll and rinse thoroughly.

After your awning has completely dried, you can then commence your RV awning repair. What type of repair you use is dependent on the shape and size. For more minor tears, using a clear awning tape can help hold the fabric together safely and effectively for another season.

For larger holes in the awning, you want to do a fabric repair. Using a tent patch kit, you can tape the fabric over holes or tears. When using a tent repair kit, you want to find some fabric that will match the awning, unless you don’t mind the sight of a patch.

When your awning has tears that are over three feet, you need to consider your options. You can go about your RV awning repair yourself through the use of heavy-duty glue, and this will patch is temporary and will not last long-term. Your other choices include replacing the awning fabric altogether or buying a new awning.  

Get Help with Your RV Awning Repair

Come find us at Edmonton RV when you doubt your skills and need a professional to help you out with your RV awning repair. We are ready and willing to help you determine what is best for your awning so that you can get back to what you love most.

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RV Services to do Before Braving the Cold for Winter Camping

Sometimes you just love camping in your RV so much that the mere thought of putting your RV away for the cold winters is unthinkable. If you are considering going winter RVing, then there is some RV service you are going to want to consider. Winter camping is not the same as summer and requires some specialized care. Visit us today for expert advice!

RV Service to Perform for Winter Camping

Here are a few things you should do to prepare yourself and your RV before you go winter camping.

  1. Get a dehumidifier for your RV. Moisture can build up quickly in the winter, and it can do some damage. Having a dehumidifier will help prevent your RV from experiencing water damage.
  2. Insulate your AC and AC lines. You want to make sure to keep your air conditioner safe from the elements. This an RV service you may not think of in the winter. Even though it is cold now, it will warm up again, and you will want to use it. Make sure to insulate your AC to protect it from the cold thoroughly.
  3. Insulate windows and walls. It can get freezing in winter, especially at night. You will want to take extra precautions from the cold by adding some insulation to your RV. Let’s face it, and an RV is not made to protect you from the cold.
  4. Before going camping, you want to have your furnace and ducts cleaned out and checked by a professional. It is very important that you know that your furnace is up to the task.
  5. Make sure that you have enough propane for your furnace. Nothing is worse than camping in winter and then being too cold because your furnace is not producing heat. It is also a good idea to invest in an electric space heater to help supplement the heat from your furnace. Just make sure to take extra precautions to prevent fires.
  6. Another RV service to consider is making sure your tire pressure is set to winter conditions. Have a block heater for your engine and fill your tank with 50% anti-freeze to keep things from freezing over.

Winter camping can be a lot of fun, but you need to make sure that you do all you can to be safe. On top of the RV service and make sure you keep a stock of warm clothes, extra blankets, socks, flashlights, fire extinguishers, and tire chains. You don’t want to get stuck in the middle of nowhere in winter with no way to get out.

Consult a Professional

When considering winter RVing, you might want to consult a professional who can make sure your RV service is done, and you are winter camping ready. Get in touch with us, and we will help make your winter camping dream a reality.

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Your Winter RV Service “To Do” List

Fall is a beautiful time of year. As the leaves start to change, you realize it might be time to start getting your RV ready for the winter months to come. Performing winter RV service is essential to ensuring your RV will be in good shape when you’re ready to hit the woods around Edmonton again come spring. Call us today to book your RV in for expert service!

Get Ready for Winter

As the days get shorter, you know it is now time to winterize your RV and perform all RV services that will keep your camper safe for the winter. Here are a few things you want to consider as you get ready to put your rig away.

  • Remove the inline water filter and put it in a sealable plastic bag.
  • A crucial RV service to perform is to put non-toxic antifreeze in your water lines to keep them from freezing. An antifreeze that is rated to -50 degrees will be ideal for the long, northern winters.
  • Do a visual inspection of all the seams of your RV. Check sealants on the roof, windows, and other seams to ensure that they are not weak and will not buckle. Making sure these seals are secure can prevent you from experiencing some severe water leakage.
  • If you have a rubber roof, you want to make sure to clean it and treat it properly thoroughly. Use a sponge mop to really scrub. You might also want to use a mineral spirit to help remove difficult spots like tree sap.
  • All vent covers and skylights should be inspected. Ensure your vent cover does not have any cracks in it and that skylight covers are also secure. It is better to replace the cover than to replace the whole structure due to water damage.
  • Keep your RV safe from little critters who are seeking refuge in the winter. It may be noble to help the little animals out, but they can wreak havoc on your RV. Remove all food products left in the RV. It is also a good idea to treat the interior with a botanical rodent repellent.
  • Check all hinges within your RV. Ensure to oil the doorways, cabinet doors, and all other moving parts that require sliding or hinges. By oiling them in the fall, you will be sure they move quickly again come spring.
  • A good wash and wax is an RV service to never overlook. The wax will help protect the exterior from any winter damage.
  • All tires should be inspected to make sure that they have adequate air and are not damaged. Any tires that have cracks or are worn down should be replaced.
  • One easily overlooked area is the hot water tank. You want to flush your hot water tank and remove all sediments from the water heater tank. By flushing and cleaning the tank, you are preventing an opportunity for corrosion.

Consult Professionals for RV Service

Our professionals at Edmonton RV are experts in RV service. Get in touch with us today to help you with your winterization checklist.

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RV Repairs that You are Likely to Encounter

Whether you are new to RV life or an experienced camper, you know that repairs will be needed from time to time, just 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. Visit Edmonton RV for expert advice on all things RV!

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 act 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

Electrical RV repairs are quite common.  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 and avoid more costly RV repairs.

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 tackle RV repairs 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’s 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 repairs you may come across. 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 issues and solve them quickly.

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How the Pros Handle an RV Awning Repair

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. Ask the experts at Edmonton RV today for RV awning repair advice.

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 taking on 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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RV Parts That Need the Most Frequent Replacements

RV’s are just like any other vehicle. You are going to encounter some RV parts and accessories that require constant maintenance. Sometimes that maintenance includes replacing. No matter how good you are at taking care of your RV, you have to prepare yourself to have to replace certain RV parts and accessories that tend to wear down over time. Visit us today to get your replacements.

Replace These RV Parts and Accessories Regularly

Have a look at this list of common RV parts and accessories you should regularly replace because of everyday wear and tear.

  • Your RV shower head. No one wants to shower in subpar water pressure. A simple fix to getting the shower you want is to replace the showerhead regularly. Like anything else, showerheads tend to wear down after prolonged use and require replacing.
  • One uncommonly known issue RV’s tend to have with their refrigerators. Of all your RV parts and accessories, you may have never considered replacing your refrigerator. Since RV refrigerators are much smaller than standard ones, they don’t tend to last as long. Next time you open your refrigerator and find that it isn’t as cold as you might like, you may want to consider that it’s time for a new one.
  • The sewer hose that attaches to your RV is one item that takes a beating. This hose is one item that you may not want to think about, but it is one that needs to be replaced regularly. You don’t want to chance a mess when it comes to damages or issues with this hose.
  • Of all the RV parts and accessories you might not think to replace, your RV cover probably tops that list. You want to protect your investment, and having a cover is essential to that protection. However, your cover doesn’t last forever. To ensure that your RV cover maintains its integrity and continues to protect your RV, you want to replace it regularly.
  • Outdoor camping gear takes a beating as it is in the sun, the rain, and anything in between. You want to occasionally replace your outdoor furniture before you sit in a chair and end up on the ground. Check your outdoor gear before you use it to ensure that it is still in good condition. If you see signs of wear, replace it.

Come See us for all Your RV Parts and Accessories

Here at Edmonton RV, we carry an extensive range of RV parts and accessories. If you have any questions or need an expert’s opinion, we will happily help you. Come see us, and we will make sure you have all you need.

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Your RV Service Checklist to Go Over Before You Head Out This Summer

As the snow starts the melt around Edmonton, you are thinking of one thing: camping season. Once the weather starts to warm, it is an accurate indication that it is time to get your RV service done. Before you hit the woods, you should make sure you have accomplished everything on your RV service checklist so that you can enjoy a fun, incident-free summer! Book your RV in with us today!  

RV Service Checklist 

Here are a few things you want to check as part of your yearly maintenance before you take your RV camping.  

  • Test the battery and make sure it is holding a charge. You want to check the water levels and clean the battery thoroughly before you give it a full charge.  
  • The tires are essential so make sure that you check the pressure. Do a visual check of your tires to check for tread, cracks, or potential issues that could leave you on the side of the road instead of a camp.  
  • Inspect the RV roof as you perform your RV service to ensure that there are no cracks, separations, or other damage. Reapply a seal as you see fit and treat the roof for UV protection so that it doesn’t get damaged in the summer sun.  
  • All the levels of your RV engine should be checked to make sure it is roadworthy. Furthermore, if you have a generator, you want to check the engine levels of that as well. Make sure to do an oil change in the engine before you take out the RV. It will surely have missed the deadline for when a new oil change is necessary, even if you didn’t reach the kilometres.
  • Check the wipers to be sure that they are in good repair and fill the wiper fluid. Put on new wipers if you notice cracks.  
  • Test all the lights both on the RV and inside the RV. Now is the time to change lightbulbs, ensure everything is working, and ensure that no mice or rats chewed any wires during the winter.  
  • Give your RV a good wash and wax before you head out for the summer. It will make you feel good to know that your RV is clean and ready for the road. Just make sure to choose a wax that will protect the exterior of your RV from UV rays. Cleaning is an essential part of your RV service so that you can be sure you are taking care of your RV properly.  

Come and Get your De-Winterizing Done 

Here at Edmonton RV, we are experienced in helping you de-winterize your RV. As part of your RV service for the year you want to seek out professional help to flush the water tanks and lines as well as the septic tanks. We are experienced in RV service and can help you get your RV ready for an exciting summer of camping. Contact us today.

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RV Repairs You Can Handle on Your Own

An RV requires regular maintenance and the occasional repair since you likely use it in and around Edmonton throughout the entire camping season. You don’t always need to take your RV in to be fixed. There are some easy RV repairs you can do yourself that will save you both money and time. Ask our expert staff for guidance on simple repairs or book your RV in for more serious ones.  

Perform these DIY RV Repairs on your RV 

Unexpected RV repairs can be needed at any time. Therefore, it is good to acquaint yourself with common RV repairs that you can do yourself.  

  • RV vent lids tend to wear out quickly, so learning how to replace it yourself will save you some time. The key to replacing the vent lid yourself is to know what size of the bracket you need. Check your manufacturer’s instructions to know what size of the bracket you need. Also, make sure you know what type of lid you need. The installation will be easy.  
  • Learn how to spot seal your roof. Of the RV repairs, the roof can be the most costly. Therefore, you want to fix the roof yourself where applicable. Have a lap sealant on hand to use in case your RV roof starts to leak. Make sure to remove the old sealant before you apply a new one.  
  • RV toilets have been known to have a few issues from time to time. Make sure to regularly replace the toilet sealant and the water valves so that you don’t end up with a dysfunctional toilet when out in the woods. Any unexpected issues can generally be found on the manufacturer’s website, where you can find standard troubleshooting tools.  
  • Of the common RV repairs, leaky water waste valves tend to be a common issue. The valves tend to be 3 inches if you have a black tank or a 1.5-inch valve for a grey tank. Before you perform the repair, make sure that you empty the tank completely. Also, another pro-tip: get a valve with a metal handle instead of a plastic one.  
  • RV chassis repairs are also a common occurrence. RV repairs are often similar to the ones you will need to perform on a car. Check the oil regularly, check the tread on the tires, and air pressure. Replace the wipers regularly and perform safety checks before moving your RV if it has been sitting for a while.  

When you do enough research, there are many RV repairs you can conduct yourself that will help keep your RV in good condition for longer. Being diligent in making proper repairs and conducting preventative checks can save you a lot of money in the future.  

Consult a Professional 

If you encounter a few RV repairs that you can’t do yourself or are unsure of, consult a professional. Our team at Edmonton RV is ready and willing to help you tackle any RV repairs that you may have to deal with on a regular basis.

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What Should I Have in My RV Awning Repair Kit?

One of the most utilized accessories for any RV is going to be your awning. Having a proper functioning awning in good repair is essential. As camping season comes upon us, it is time to check to ensure that you have everything you need in your RV awning repair kit. Anything can happen to your awning when camping. You need to be prepared. Visit us today for expert advice on minor RV repairs. 

Things your RV Awning Repair Kit Should Contain 

There are several reasons that your awning could encounter some issues. Not all tears in your awning are a result of misuse. Many things that happen to awning can happen because of age, weather, or a manufacturer that used cheaper materials.  

However, when issues arise in your awning, you want to make sure to repair it right away to prevent a small tear from turning into the need to replace your entire awning.  

There are some essential items that you will need to conduct a proper RV awning repair. Fixing an RV awning is a pretty straightforward procedure when done right. Here are the materials you need to conduct a proper RV awning repair.  

  • Tape Measure 
  • Screwdriver for taking on and putting back up the awning
  • A flat board made of plastic is best. Wood works as long as there are no splinters.
  • Fabric scissors for cutting the material swath needed to conduct the repair
  • Standard sewing supplies that include a needle for canvas
  • Cleaner for awnings
  • Extra material for your awning
  • Tape that is waterproof
  • The glue that is also waterproof 

Make sure that you check the manual that comes with your awning before you start fixing your awning. Make sure you have a compatible awning repair material for fixing any tears or holes.  

As you compile a list of essentials for your RV in preparation for Edmonton’s upcoming camping season, you want to make sure that you have all your RV awning repair items. Anything can happen to your awning, no matter how careful you are with it. 

Awning Care 

You may end up needing to conduct RV awning repair no matter how careful you are. Proper awning care can go a long way to prevent premature aging of your awning.  

  • Make sure your awning is dry before you put it away.  
  • Properly secure your awning when you are traveling. 
  • Follow manufacture instructions when you clean your awning. 
  • Take care when taking out or putting away your awning in high wind or around trees.  

Come Get All your RV Repair Essentials 

As you prepare your RV awning repair kit for the camping season, come see us at Edmonton RV. Our trained professionals can make sure you are getting all the right material necessary for to stock up your RV awning repair kit.

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Essential RV Services to Perform Before Winter Camping

Summer is the most popular season to go camping with an RV but RVing in the winter is a great way to experience a large variety of recreational activities that will have you embracing the Edmonton winters instead of dreading it. If you are keen on taking up winter RVing, then there is some RV service you are going to want to get done before you head to the campsite. Call us today to book your RV in for service before winter camping. 

Keeping Warm is Key

Make sure to determine what kind of weather you are going to encounter so you can prepare for it.  RVs are not made to hold in heat, so despite your best efforts, you may find that heat is escaping. Get some plastic window coverings that you can use to add insulation to the inside of your RV. These window coverings are relatively cost-efficient, and they help with keeping the cold out and the heat in immensely.  

Check the productivity of your RV’s LP furnace and that it is in good working order. Though your electric heater will be your primary source of heat, you do want to run the LP furnace at a cozy 45 degrees to help with the heating.  

Watch Your Water Systems 

RV service for winter camping is going to include making sure your RV water lines don’t freeze. You need to make sure there is anti-freeze available for your bathrooms and that your other water lines are heated.  

Your RV water tanks aren’t made for winter camping. When you get RV service done, consider having a holding water tank heater installed as well. These heaters are going to help prevent water from freezing on your or causing more severe issues. 

Prevent Frozen Pipes 

When performing RV service, you want to make sure that you cover the pipes under your RV with some type of adequate insulation. A heated RV water hose is also a good investment when winter RVing. The underbelly of your RV is going to need a great deal of care to be ready to camp in the winter. Skirting will help with retaining the heat on the underside, but it isn’t enough.  

Finally, you want to be sure only to dump your holding tanks when they are nearly full to avoid having the contents freeze. Also, please do not leave your grey or black outlet ports open when connected to city sewers as they will freeze also.  

Wander in the Winter 

Getting the RV service done so that you can go winter camping is essential to making it a memorable experience. Therefore, you want to have all your bases covered. If you are unsure of what RV service needs to be done before hitting the woods in the winter, come see us at Edmonton RV. We will happily help you be on your way safely.