Category: RV Maintenance

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Can You Perform an RV Awning Repair by Yourself?

Can you perform an RV awning repair by yourself? The short answer is – probably. The real question is – should you? That question is a little harder to answer. It really depends on the extent to the repairs that need to be done. Here are some things to consider before trying any repairs yourself:

Are You the DIY Type?

Do you often fix things yourself around the house, or on your car? Do you change your own oil on your car, fix minor plumbing leaks in the bathroom, or build shelves for the laundry room? If so, then you may be just the right person to your own RV awning repair. If you can’t tell the difference between a hammer and a wrench, well, then you may want to get repairs done by a professional. Of course, small tears can happen at any time, and for a quick fix, you’ll want to keep RV awning repair tape on hand, just until you can get the repair done properly. We have a selection of tape and other repair kits that you shouldn’t leave home without!

Making Your Awning Last

Your awning is an integral part of your overall camping experience. It can protect you from the sweltering heat, short but intense rain storms and too much exposure from the sun. That’s why it’s important to take care of it and make it last as long as possible. Here are a few tips:

  • Always secure your awning to protect it from winds and harsh weather conditions
  • Inspect it regularly to make sure there are no tears
  • Clean it regularly with vinyl spray to help prevent mildew
  • When setting it up, put one side lower so water runs off easily
  • Make sure your awing is dry before long-term storage
  • Fix any repairs before storing your RV

Professional RV Awning Repair Is Your Best Option

Whether you’re the handyman around your house, or you don’t know a fuse from a circuit breaker, getting an RV awning repair professional to help is probably the best choice. Spending money for a repair is better than paying someone to fix your mistakes. In the long run, it just makes sense. Call us today for all your RV awning repair needs. Our technicians will help keep your awning in great shape for years to come.

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Here Are a Few Minor or Major RV Repairs to Make Before Hitting the Road

You might be ready to hit the road this spring – but is your RV? Before you pack up, it’s important to make sure that all your RV repairs have been completed; especially the ones you’ve been putting off since last season! You may think a problem is just a minor one, but once you’re on the road that minor nuisance may become a major one. You’ll not only ruin your trip, you’ll break the bank! That’s why we pride ourselves on great service that won’t break your pocketbook. We’ll make sure your RV repairs are done right the first time, so you can have peace of mind on the road. Here are a few things to check on your RV before you head out.

Minor RV Repairs:

  • Awnings: Make sure your awning works and that there are no holes, tears, or scratches in it. Even the smallest hole can become a big one quickly, so get it fixed asap.
  • Pop-ups/Slide-outs: Test these to make sure they work properly, both to set up and close. If not, you’ll have less sleeping room inside the camper, which can make for a cranky crew!
  • Windows: Check for chips and cracks on all your windows. As with awnings, even minor chips can become big ones in a hurry. Our RV repairs experts can help you see clearly again!

Major RV Repairs:

  • Electrical Systems: Test your electrical systems to make sure everything is in good working order. This includes electrical outlets, your generator, and your furnace. If you have the slightest concern, contact us right away.
  • Plumbing/Water Systems: Your hot water heater, water faucets and even your refrigerator need to be tested before you go.

Need help with testing all of your RV’s components? We’re here for you! Give us a call, our RV repairs experts can inspect your systems and advise you on what needs work and what is in good working order.

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Are You Ready for Spring RV Service and Maintenance?

If you’re like most people who love to travel, you’re already planning your spring and summer excursions. Whether you go to the lake a few kilometers away on weekends, or you are traveling across the country, you need to make sure you get there safe and sound. That’s why RV service should be your number one priority before you even think of packing. A comprehensive check of your RV by our experts will give you peace of mind on the road, so you can concentrate on the adventures ahead! Here are just a few things you should consider as part of your RV service plan:

Engine Check & Repairs

Our expert technicians will give your engine a thorough inspection to make sure that your motorhome is running at optimal levels. This includes an oil change, checking the transmission, lines, steering, alignment and more. Our RV service is second to none and we will make sure your ride is safe for the road before we let you take it off our lot.

Don’t Forget About the Tires

You’re not going to get very far if you don’t have proper or bald tires installed. As part of our RV service plan, we’ll make sure you have the best tires at the best price. You’ll get better gas mileage too! You’ll also want to make sure your spare tire is in good condition as well.

Going the Distance

If you’re going to be traveling long distances, you’ll need to make sure you have all the accessories you need to enjoy the trip comfortably, both on the road and when you get there. We have a vast selection of accessories, such as appliances, vent covers, games, generators and more. Our experts can discuss your options when you book your RV service with us. Remember, too, that the further you go, the more important it is to ensure your RV stays in tip-top shape.

Stay Safe and Secure

No one likes to think about breaking down in the middle of the highway, or running out of gas (who knew the next gas station would be 100 km away?) That’s why it’s a good idea to purchase a roadside plan. Also, make sure that all your locks are in good working order, and you have your cell phones charged (don’t forget the charger). Part of our RV service checklist ensures all your vehicle’s parts are in good working order, but it’s always a good idea to double-check when you’re on the road.

Our RV service technicians can give you expert advice on what to bring along, such as oil, transmission, fluid, etc. Call us today to book your Spring RV service inspection.

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Top Mistakes RV Owners Make that Lead to Costly RV Service

When you say goodbye to Edmonton and hit the open road with your RV, there are some mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Sometimes, the most experienced RVers forget to latch the door or secure the awning. Even with the best care possible, some mistakes can lead to very expensive RV service costs that can really throw you for a loop. In order to avoid these RV service costs, there are some mistakes you want to refrain from making.

Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

  • Not planning your trips accordingly. Camping on a whim can be fun, but you don’t want to hop into your RV and start driving for a few days without the proper preparations. To avoid RV service, you want to be sure your RV is ready for an extended trip by checking fuel and oil levels on your motorhome, tires, battery, propane, awning, and any other electrical components.
  • One mistake that leads to RV service too often is driving off before you’ve properly disconnected power and water from your RV. A quick walk around your RV before heading out of the campsite will ensure that you remember to disconnect your hookups, as well as to make sure your awning is in and your antenna is down.
  • You’ll also want to learn how to use everything in and outside of your RV before heading out. To avoid an expensive RV service, you’ll want to learn all the procedures for set up and take down, as well as what buttons operate which components, and what the routine is for your RV at the dumping station.
  • Another major mistake that leads to a pricey RV service appointment, is heading out before you know the towing basics. This means knowing how wide and tall your RV is, as well as your turn radius.

Get the most out of your camping experience by making sure to do simple checks with your RV to avoid a costly repair or RV service. Know the basics before you go and always have a camping checklist!

When you are looking to get RV service or are shopping around, come see us. We are always happy to help you with answering questions and giving you tips and tricks.

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Winterize Your RV or Learn to RV in the Winter?

As the temperatures plummet you realize RV season has passed. It is now time to pack it in and winterize your RV. Or is it? If you are planning to do some winter camping, there are a few things you will need to do to prepare your RV for some fun in the snow.

Check out these tips to get your RV ready for winter camping:

  • Add insulation to your windows, doorways and stairs. There is a lot of cold air that can come in through these areas so it’s a good idea to cover them. Put plastic on your windows, add insulation to your doorway and stairwell. This can really make a difference in how comfortable your RV feels in cold weather.
  • If you are planning to be out a lot in the winter, especially when the temperatures get to extreme cold, you want to skirt your RV. Most RV’s are not made for the cold weather, so if you are going to winterize your RV for winter camping, you’ll want to look into skirting it.
  • Electricity can get very expensive, so if you are going to winterize your RV for usage over the winter, you will want an inexpensive way to heat it. There are two great options you can look into. You can get a propane heater or a pellet stove. Both will keep the inside of your RV toasty warm without draining your wallet.
  • The hoses on your RV are not made for the cold weather. Part of the process to winterize your RV will be to make sure the pipes don’t freeze. To prepare for this, it’s a good idea to invest in a good heated hose. You can make your own with insulation, but it is suggested you just purchase one to avoid freezing.
  • Don’t leave your water hose plugged in during the cold snaps. All water hoses will freeze, so it’s a good idea to always disconnect yours and keep a spare on hand.
  • Another good idea when you winterize your RV is to invest in tire chains. The tires on the RV aren’t made for frozen, snow covered roads. These chains will help you keep moving along.
  • Make sure to top up your antifreeze. Even if you just store your RV for the winter months, you want to replace all water with anti freeze to avoid any issues related to freezing in your pipes.

Whether you are planning on using your RV or storing it away for the winter months, it is a good idea to always winterize your RV accordingly. Stop by or give us a call before you winterize your RV, so that you can get the latest tips and tricks.

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Top DIY RV Service Tips

When it comes time to do some RV service, you want to be sure that you are tackling the right issues.

Here are some basic RV service tips you can make use of to help you keep your RV in tip top shape:

  • Make sure to regularly change the oil and filters to keep your motorhome running in optimal condition.
  • If your RV has a generator, be sure to service this regularly. It is important your back up power supply is apart of all your RV service needs.
  • Be sure that when you perform RV service that you have all your filters changed. These filters would include the fuel, air and hydraulic filters. Make sure to have them changed regularly to prevent any issues down the line.
  • You should regularly check your RV over from top to bottom to check for cracks or seals that might be broken. Unattended cracks or broken seals can lead to a slew of issues, be sure to perform this important RV service the minute it is noticed.
  • One very important aspect of RV service is your brakes. You always want to be sure they are in good working condition. Damage to the brakes could cost you a lot of out pocket, so make sure they are in perfect running condition.
  • Before every trip, you want to check your tire pressure. Make sure they are at the required levels according to your manual. Be sure to check that all the lug nuts are also perfectly tight, and none have come loose.
  • Depending on what type of roof you have, you should check this twice yearly. A rubber roof needs to be treated at least once per year, so be sure to put this on your to do list.
  • Always check your battery before you head out for the season and before you store it for the winter. A deep cycle battery has a life span of 3-5 years. Be sure to change it at the end of the life cycle.

It is important that you perform RV service before, during and after every camping season. This is the best way to ensure that you get many wonderful years of camping.

When it comes time to get your RV checked, come on down to Edmonton RV and let us perform your RV service for you. You want to be sure that you can go camping anytime with peace of mind knowing you will be safe and secure.

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Avoid the Elements and Learn How to Winterize Your RV

The sad realization that camping season is over means it is time to start the process to winterize your RV. You don’t want the elements to cause any damage, so there are some steps you should take before tucking your RV away for the winter.

Avoid the elements with these steps:

  • Empty out the water systems when you winterize your RV. Each RV comes with a guide for cleaning out the water, but the basic steps are the same. Turn off the hot water heater and empty the water out of the pipes. Replace the water with antifreeze. Make sure it goes through all the pipes and even pour some into your drains.
  • Take out the batteries and plan to store them. Turn off the disconnect and breakers before removing the battery but be sure to label all the cables for easy reconnection. Store them in a warm, dry place. If you have a larger RV with multiple batteries, leave them in, but disconnect the negative cable.
  • Another way to winterize your RV is by applying a good layer of wax on the outside of it. This will help to protect it against the elements and keep it looking good. Be sure to buy a good quality wax specific for your RV. Clean the exterior prior to putting on the wax, checking for cracks along the way.
  • While you winterize your RV, check the awning. While cleaning the exterior of your RV, you should also clean the awning. Be sure to let it fully dry before securing it away. You don’t want mold or mildew to grow because you didn’t let it dry beforehand.
  • While you winterize your RV its a good idea to service the hinges and the locks. Take a few minutes to fully lubricate all hinges and locks to avoid creaks or jams come spring.
  • Meticulously clean the interior to help winterize your RV. Double check to make sure all food and beverages have been removed.
  • If you are going to store your RV outside throughout the winter, a great step to include to winterize your RV is to cover the wheels. Covering your wheels will prevent them from cracking or scorching in the winter sun. If you choose to cover your whole RV with a tarp, be sure to use a breathable one, or pick up an RV cover.

Get all the tips and tricks you need to winterize your RV by coming down to Edmonton RV and letting our specialists help you out. We are here to ensure that you can protect your RV and keep it running in tip top shape next spring when you are ready to go camping again.

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Check it Before You Wreck it: How to Avoid RV Awning Repairs

The summer days can be hot with the sun rays getting stronger. You want to avoid having to be in direct sunlight as much as possible and therefore your awning is very important. However, to avoid a costly RV awning repair, you’ll want to be sure to avoid common mistakes when taking care of it.

Common RV awning repair mistakes to avoid:

  • Don’t leave your awning out when unattended. The weather is very unpredictable, and it can change very quickly. Try to remember to retract your awning if you are going to be away for any period of time. This will help you avoid wreckage due to weather.
  • Before you operate your RV, you want to be sure that your awning is retracted and secured properly. Driving you RV with the awning not secured can lead to some serious damage that will require RV awning repair. Before you take off, double check that you have the awning safely secured.
  • Your awning takes on a lot. It is subject to the elements and various other things that can fly through the air and land on it. You want to be sure to clean your awning regularly to help keep it in good repair. Awnings come in either acrylic or vinyl, make sure you follow the proper cleaning steps for the material you have.
  • Another great way to avoid RV awning repairs is making sure it is dry before you retract it. If it has rained recently, be sure to wait until the awning is completely dry before you secure it in order to avoid the growth of mold and mildew. This will help keep the material in good shape and help you avoid having to replace or repair it.
  • The awning has a lot of moving parts and the most common RV awning repair generally has to do with the hardware. You want to be sure to use the right lubricants necessary to help you keep the moving parts lubricated and avoid rust or corrosion. Putting a thin layer of silicone spray on the hardware will help to keep it in great shape.

When you are out camping, you don’t want to worry about RV awning repair. To help you escape this, make sure you are aware of common mistakes you can avoid. If you want to learn more about RV awning repair and how to avoid it, come visit us at Edmonton RV and let our specialists help you out so that you can enjoy camping with ease.

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5 Things That Need to be On Your RV Camping Checklist

Summer is well on it’s way and camping season is in full swing. When enjoying camping for the rest of the season, you want to be sure to have an RV camping checklist so that you don’t forget any essential items that you will need when going off grid.

Here are few things you should include on your RV camping checklist.

  • Extension cords. These are essential to your checklist, from outdoor lighting to entertainment there are going to be many things you are going to need an extension cord for.
  • Games are something you are going to want on your RV camping checklist. Sometimes when it’s raining, or you just want to enjoy a nice quiet evening, you can get some games to play with your loved ones to help you pass the time and relax. There are many great board or card games you can get that will be fun for the whole family.
  • When preparing your RV camping checklist make sure safety items are included. One of those items you want to make sure is on your list is a fire extinguisher. Nothing says camping like a camp fire and a great way to do that safely is to make sure you have an extinguisher to help you should that fire get too big. Another reason this is a great item is because cooking in an RV is cramped and accidents do happen.
  • A water canister is very important when going outdoors. You more than likely will go hiking or take part in other outdoor activities. You must make sure to stay hydrated, especially on those hot summer days. Make sure when preparing your RV camping checklist that you include a water canister.
  • A first aid kit. Anything can happen at anytime and you want to be prepared. Make sure you have a fully stocked first aid kit that includes all the essential items to contain an emergency until you can get medical attention. It’s always best to prepare for the worst but expect the best. Be sure a first aid kit is on your RV camping checklist so that you are always prepared.

Camping is one of the best ways to enjoy the summer. RV camping allows you to do that in comfort and provide you a home away from home. When heading out into nature, you want to do so with ease of mind. Be sure to come down to Edmonton RV and let our specialists help you choose all the essential items you should have on your RV camping checklist this summer.

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Learn More About RV Solar Off Grid Camping to Find Your New Favourite Spots

Going camping is a lot of fun. You can enjoy a more secluded camping experience when you choose to go RV solar off grid camping. However, you will want to know what you are doing so that you can still live in comfort and enjoy a rustic natural habitat.

Camping Off Grid

Camping off grid is a great way to enjoy nature free from more modern conveniences, while finding new places to camp. You want to be able to take your RV solar off grid camping and still have access to water, and power via solar panels, providing you some of the comforts from home.

Mounting solar panels is just the start of your RV solar off grid camping experience. There are many things you want to think about when depending on solar energy. Here are a few of those things:

  • Determine your wattage. Solar comes in 5 different watt sizes, 40, 80, 120, 180 and 200 watts. You want to make sure you get the one you need for the size of RV you have.
  • You also need proper mounting hardware. You want to be sure that when your solar panels are mounted, you can be sure they will stay in place no matter what the weather.
  • Have a proper all weather charge controller to allow you to use your solar energy efficiently.
  • Having a durable and long lasting battery and charging capabilities will make sure you don’t lose power. Make sure you are fitted for what works best for your RV.
  • If you find you don’t have enough power for your RV solar off grid camping and desire more, you can get an expansion kit. It will add more power to increase your rustic camping experience.
  • Another great piece you will want is a cable entry plate. This is a way to be able to keep the wires on the roof of your RV from being exposed to the elements and provide you with peace of mind.

Don’t Hesitate!

When you want to take your camping experience to the next level, be sure to consider your options before you go RV solar off grid camping. When you are ready to take the plunge into a more natural camping experience, head down to Edmonton RV to get fitted for the right solar kit that will make your RV solar off grid camping experience a comfortable one.