Category: RV Tips & Tricks

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Not So Obvious RV Services to Have Done This Summer

Preparing your RV for camping is something that needs to be done yearly. You have a good idea of what repairs and maintenance need to be done to keep your RV summer ready. However, other kinds of RV service might not be so obvious but will make your summer camping around Edmonton much more satisfactory. If you’re not sure what you are missing, book a full RV service with us today.

Not So Obvious RV Services to Perform before Summer Camping

Here are a few things that you should do to help you get your RV ready for camping this summer that you probably haven’t thought about.

  • Check your screens for signs of tears, wear, and degeneration. Your screens need to be taken care of every year as you prepare your RV for summer. Having your screens in proper condition will help keep the critters out of your RV and make camping much more fun.
  • Another RV service that needs to be performed is checking the awning. You may think because it is rolled up and tucked away that nothing could happen. It is an excellent idea to unroll your awning and check it for tears or cracks. Have an awning repair kit ready to perform fixes.
  • Check all the seams of your RV for cracks or wear. You want to be able to prevent both air and water leaks before they occur. Make sure to have the proper repair materials with you so that you can perform simple repairs as you do your check.
  • Clean the cabinets and check all the hinges on the doors. You don’t want to have to deal with the constant squeaking of doors or have them falling off the hinges because of erosion. Oil the hinges and replace any that have signs of severe damage.
  • All lights need to be checked. Not just signal or headlights, but the lights inside your RV need to be checked too. When conducting your RV service, you want to be sure that all the lights are working. If you have an RV pulled by a truck, you also want to check the connection lights to be sure that they are in good working order.
  • As part of your RV service, you should make sure all your filters are replaced. Most have probably gathered dust over the winter slumber and to be entirely ready for summer camping. It is a good idea to check all your cabin and vehicle filters to ensure optimal efficiency.

Have the Professionals Help

There is only so much you can do when it comes to RV service. Therefore, when you have done all you can do, it is time for you to take your RV to the professionals. Our team at Edmonton RV can perform all the RV service that you may not be able to do yourself or have overlooked. Come and see us today.

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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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RV Parts and Accessories You Should Always Travel With

No matter how carefully you plan, there is always something that is bound to go wrong when you are traveling long-distances with your RV. That is why it is so important that you stock up on certain RV parts and accessories during the offseason so that you are prepared when it comes time to go camping again around Edmonton and beyond. Visit us today! 

Don’t Leave Home Without… 

When preparing your RV for the camping season, make sure that you have these essential RV parts and accessories on hand at all times.  

  • Light bulbs
    As you prepare to head off on a road trip with your RV, you want to make sure to keep some extra bulbs on hand. You never know when the lights will go out because of a blown bulb, having some handy keeps you from having to search for more.  
  • Fuses
    Of the RV parts and accessories that it is a good idea to have extra of, there are fuses. You never know when you need to change a fuse.  
  • Roof Repair Kit
    Have all the things necessary for roof repair. You never know what may happen, a hailstorm, strong winds, or a low hanging branch can easily rip through your RV roof. Therefore, roof repair tape, sealant, and other roof repair essentials is a good idea.  
  • Tires and Tire Repair Kit
    One of the biggest concerns when going on a road trip with your RV is the tires. Check your spare tire and then stock up on things like a tire sealant that you can spray into the tube, a repair kit, and ensure that your jack and other tools are in good working order.  
  • Emergency Roadside Kit
    An emergency roadside kit is another of the RV parts and accessories you want to have on hand. Flares, road cones, and some light to warn oncoming traffic that you are off to the side of the road are essential. Also, make sure there are warming blankets and other first-aid essentials in the event that you’re stranded for a while.  
  • Extra Food
    Extra food is another essential if you happen to be stranded should something happen. Making sure you have some non-perishable food items on hand is always a good idea should things like mudslides or flooding keep you grounded for a while in a remote location outside of Edmonton. 

Be Prepared. 

You always want to be prepared should something happen when traveling with your RV. Having extra RV parts and accessories at your fingertips could turn a disaster into a much better inconvenience. Emergency essentials are one thing, but just having regular maintenance RV parts and accessories on-hand is also a good idea. If you aren’t sure what RV parts and accessories your RV needs or you want to discuss what types of essentials you should consider, come see us at Edmonton RV. We are ready and willing to help in any way we can. 

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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. 

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Your RV To-Do List Before You Park for the Winter

Winterizing your RV probably isn’t one of the things you look forward to doing each season. It’s a reminder that camping season around Edmonton is finished, and it takes some RV service to store your RV for the coldest months of the year. Call us today to book your winter service.

RV Service Checklist

As you start to winterize your RV, there is some RV service you are going to want complete before putting it away for its winters rest. Have a look at the list of RV service you should do to keep your RV in pristine condition throughout the long winter months.

  • Buy enough anti-freeze to cover the entire lengths of your plumbing lines. If you get one specifically for RV’s, you can use it more than once. About two to five gallons of anti-freeze should be enough for you to place in your water lines when performing your RV service.
  • Do a thorough cleanout. This cleaning is going to include the oven, turning off and cleaning the inside of the refrigerator, the cupboards, and everything else inside the RV. It is also recommended that you leave the cupboard doors slightly ajar for air circulation.
  • Drain and flush all your holding tanks. Use a hose to clean out the black tank. Make sure all the valves are closed to as to prevent damage to the seals. Another thing you can do is to install valve covers.
  • As you do your RV service, make sure to remove the battery. You want to check the water levels, fully charge it, and put some Vaseline on the battery terminals. Then, put the battery in a cool, dry place for the winter.
  • Wash the outside of your RV thoroughly and use a good wax to protect it from the damaging effects of winter weather. Clean your awning and lubricate all the moving parts. Make sure the awning is dry before you roll it up and place it in the locked position.
  • Get some mothballs to place at the back of the refrigerator to prevent spiders from making a new home. Also, placing bounce sheets between your mattresses and cushions is an excellent way to keep them from getting musty.
  • Consider what friends might move in over the winter and place traps to deter them. Mice really like dry places for spending the winter months too, and an available RV is a great place.
  • A safe source of heat inside is a good idea to prevent molding from condensation. A 40-watt light bulb is inexpensive to run, and it will keep your RV heated just enough to prevent condensation.

Come See Us

There is much more you can do to perform RV service on your RV for the winter. If you want some professional help or guidance, be sure to contact us at Edmonton RV. We are here to help with all your RV needs.

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How to Handle an RV Repair Emergency on the Road

There is nothing worse than being on the road, and then something happens to your RV. Since you never know what could happen, you should be ready for any number of needed RV repairs when taking a road trip. Having a successful road trip is going to take planning and proper execution of that plan. This includes is making sure your RV is road-ready before you head out of Edmonton. Call Edmonton RV today to book your service. 

If you are concerned about taking an older RV on the road, there are some precautions you can take instead of eliminating your entire vacation. These precautions should be taken by any RV owner before hitting the road.  

Regular Service 

As with all preventative measures, always take your RV in to be serviced regularly. By servicing your RV on a regular basis, you are sure to prevent expensive RV repairs in the future. Servicing usually includes checking the oil, battery, tires, frame, and much more. The owner’s manual of your RV will state what kinds of maintenance needs to be performed regularly.  

Take a Walk 

Take a walk-around your RV before hitting the road. You are going to look for potential issues. A walk-around allows you to slowly look at each wheel, check the air pressure, the tread, and so forth. You can have a look at the frame of the RV to see if there is rusting or corrosion that needs addressing. Look for anything leaking from the underside of the RV. Turn on all the lights to check that they are all in working order. Finally, this is also a great time to check that all compartments are correctly latched and secured.  

Roadside Assistance 

Invest in an excellent roadside assistance plan. There are many that you can find that will help you with RV repairs should the need arise. There are a few reputable roadside assistance plans you can look into and compare to find the one that works best with an RV. Check for things like towing kilometres and response times.  

Take Your Tools  

Keep tools with you in the event that you need them for spontaneous RV repairs. A spare tire and a jack are conventional thought of tools. However, you may also want plyers, screwdrivers of various sizes, flashlights, and flares. Other tools you may consider include jumper cables, caulking, duct tape, wire strippers, hacksaw, and some medium weight wiring and rope.  

RV Repairs Cavalry 

When all else fails, call in the experts. If you are especially not mechanically inclined, for peace of mind, you want to have experts like us at Edmonton RV take a look and help ease your mind for you when looking at RV repairs. We know what to look for and what to do if we find any issues so that you have a safe road trip. 

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Should I Repair or Replace my RV Awning?

Your RV awning is a vital part of your setup. It is what keeps you protected from the hot sun and provides you some rain protection as well. When the need for RV awning repair arises, you may be wondering if it isn’t just better to get a new one. Visit Edmonton RV today for an expert opinion. 

RV awning repair is definitely an option when issues arise, and it can save you from having to replace the entire structure. However, you need to know whether it is worth repairing or just replacing. Have a look. 

RV Awning Repair or Replacement? 

Taking on the task of repairing your awning can save you a lot of money, but it isn’t necessarily the best thing you could do. If it is just a small issue, then definitely repair it yourself. You can get some awning repair kits that will allow you to repair the awning for a fraction of the cost of a new one. The kit only works though if it is a small piece of fabric that needs replacing. Most kits are limited to 6-inch cuts or less.  

Another solution to tears in the awning is using canvas tape. You can find canvas tape just about anywhere, and it is a quick, simple solution for any tear in your awning. If the awning has a large tear, you may want to rethink just taping it up. It is better to replace the awning completely.  

Worth the Risk? 

There is some risk to taking on RV awning repair yourself. Here are the risks associated with DIY RV awning repair.  

  • Your lack of expertise can result in additional damage to the awning or be dangerous for anyone underneath.  
  • A repair that isn’t done right can lead to leaks. 
  • If you don’t apply a canvas repair kit or the canvas tape properly, it can tear your awning further.  
  • The aesthetic appeal of your awning could diminish, especially if you aren’t’ careful with the application of tape or repair kit.  
  • Improper RV awning repair can lead to more costly repairs down the road.  

When Not to DIY 

There are times that you should seek counsel from a professional who is experienced in RV awning repair. Every once in a while, you will doubt your capabilities, and that is alright. You should always seek help if you believe you are out of your depth.  

  • When you aren’t sure how to use a DIY kit 
  • If the tear or hole in your awning is over 6-inches in diameter 
  • When there are issues with the mechanics of the awning 
  • When you are an inexperienced RV owner 

We Can Handle It! 

When you are stuck and aren’t sure where to go for your RV awning repair, you can come to see us at Edmonton RV. We are trained professionals who can help you with a wide variety of your RV concerns, including your RV awning repair. Contact us to learn more.

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Essential RV Parts and Accessories

Your RV is an integral part of your summer camping experience. However, to keep the fun going, you want to ensure that you have all the proper RV parts and accessories necessary to keep things running smoothly.  

Nothing is worse than being stuck with issues while out exploring the woods around Alberta. You want to make sure that if there are any problems that you have all the essential RV parts and accessories to fix many common issues as they arise without putting your camping on hold. Contact us to learn more.

Make these RV parts and accessories apart of your summer checklist: 

Tool Kit  

There are many things in an RV that can be fixed quickly and easily if you have the right tools. Therefore, make sure you have a tool kit that has all the essential RV tools in it so that if an issue arises that wrench can fix, you have it with you.  

Before you get a tool kit, go through your RV and see what kinds of non-essential parts you can accumulate. Things like bolts, proper screw sizes, and the right screwdrivers are part of your tool kit, whether you assemble one from scratch or buy an already set up one.  

RV Cover 

Get a proper RV cover. You don’t want to use a regular tarp because it can cause mold and mildew. Therefore, when your RV is not in use, you should cover it properly. The right RV cover will help to protect your RV against the varying Alberta weather conditions and protect your RV against UV damage.  

Breakaway Cable

You want to make sure you have a spare breakaway cable. When towing your RV using a breakaway switch, you need the cable to activate the switch so that it will slow your RV down should it separate from the vehicle towing it. It is very wise to keep an extra cable on hand if the one you have gets worn out.  

Mosquito Coils

You may think that this isn’t one of the essential RV parts and accessories, but you will be grateful you have them. Mosquitos can be terrible all over Alberta during the summer months in the deep woods. When those mosquitos start to overwhelm you, and you remember that you have those coils, you will be relieved. 

Sewer Hose

Nothing can put a damper on your summer fun more than having your sewage system stop working. Your sewer hose can wear down and have leaks after repeated use. Therefore, to make sure you don’t have sewage issues, have a spare hose on hand.  

Visit us Today! 

Here at Edmonton RV we have a large selection of RV parts and accessories. Come see us, and we will make sure that your RV has all the essential things you need to have a fun and successful camping season.