Blog - Edmonton RV Service

Posted on May 1, 2023May 1, 2023 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

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!

Posted on April 1, 2023May 1, 2023 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

What’s The Deal With RV Solar?

If you’re an avid RV camper, you know how important it is to have a reliable source of power to keep your appliances and devices running while on the road. While traditional RV power sources such as generators and campground hookups are common, many campers are turning to solar power as a more sustainable and cost-effective option. However, selecting the right solar panel for your RV can be a daunting task with so many options available. In this blog post, we’ll explore some important factors to consider when selecting RV solar panels to ensure you choose the right option for your needs.

How Does a Solar System Work?

RV solar panels are designed to convert the energy from the sun into usable electrical power for your RV. The panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are made from silicon and other conductive materials. When sunlight hits the PV cells, it causes a flow of electrons, creating a direct current (DC) of electricity.

This DC power is then sent through wiring to a solar charge controller, which regulates the amount of power flowing into your RV’s battery system. The charge controller ensures that the batteries are not overcharged or undercharged, which can damage them.

The batteries are the powerhouse of your solar system – they collect all the energy from your solar panels and store it for use now or later. The larger the batteries you have, the more energy you are able to store!

Think Of A Rain Barrel

One helpful analogy for understanding the relationship between RV solar panels and batteries is to think of them like a rain barrel. Just as a rain barrel collects and stores rainwater for future use, your RV’s battery system stores the energy produced by your solar panels for later use.

Think of your solar panels as the rain – when the sun is shining, they collect energy and send it to your battery system just as rain fills up a barrel. The larger the solar panel array, the more energy you can collect, just as a larger rain barrel can store more water.

Your batteries, on the other hand, are like the rain barrel itself. Just as the rain barrel stores water until you need it, your battery system stores the energy produced by your solar panels until you need to use it to power your RV’s appliances and devices. The larger your battery bank, the more energy you can store for later use, just as a larger rain barrel can store more water for future use.

By understanding this analogy, you can see how important it is to have the right size solar panel array and battery bank for your RV’s needs. With the right combination, you can ensure that you have a reliable source of power for all your adventures on the road.

Portable vs. permanent

When it comes to RV solar panels, you have two main options: portable or permanently installed panels. Each option has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one for your needs depends on your camping style and energy requirements.

Portable solar panels are easy to transport and set up, making them a great choice for those who like to move around frequently. They can be positioned to capture the maximum amount of sunlight, which can be helpful in areas with limited sun exposure. Portable solar panels are also less expensive than permanent installations and can be easily replaced or upgraded as needed. However, they do require more manual labor to set up and take down, and they take up storage space inside your RV when not in use.

Permanent solar panel installations, on the other hand, are more convenient and efficient in the long run. They are usually mounted on the roof of your RV, so they are always positioned to capture the most sunlight. They require minimal maintenance and do not take up any storage space inside your RV. However, they are more expensive than portable panels and require professional installation, which can be an additional cost.

In summary, portable solar panels are more affordable, flexible, and easy to set up, but require more manual labor and storage space, and they aren’t generating any power until you set them up. Permanent installations are more efficient and convenient in the long run, but require a higher upfront cost and professional installation. Their main benefit is that they are always generating power when there is sunlight. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your budget, camping style, and energy requirements.

Do I Need An Inverter

An RV inverter is an electrical device that converts DC (direct current) power from your RV’s battery bank into AC (alternating current) power that can be used to run your RV’s appliances and devices. Most RVs come with a built-in inverter, but you can also purchase a separate inverter to upgrade your system.

When your RV is connected to shore power or running a generator, your appliances and devices run on AC power. However, when you’re boondocking or using solar power, you need an inverter to convert the DC power from your battery bank into AC power. Inverters come in different sizes and capacities, and it’s important to choose one that can handle the wattage of your appliances and devices.

Some RV inverters also include a built-in charger, which can recharge your RV’s batteries when connected to shore power or a generator. This can be a convenient way to keep your battery bank charged and ready to use.

Overall, an RV inverter is an essential component of any off-grid or solar-powered RV setup. It allows you to use AC power from your battery bank to power your appliances and devices, making it possible to enjoy all the comforts of home while on the road.

What To Watch Out For When Buying A Used RV

Buying a used RV is a great way to save money, but if you aren’t careful you could be buying into a problem! Follow these helpful tips to make sure you’re informed when shopping used.

If you are new to the RV lifestyle, or have an RV but want to upgrade, buying used is an excellent idea. However, buying an RV is a big investment, and issues like water damage, plumbing issues, and other problems that can/have occurred are difficult to spot if you don’t know what to look for. Especially with water damage, the costs to repair these issues can greatly exceed what you paid for your RV. If you follow these tips, you can ensure you are buying a solid RV that will last you or your family for many seasons to come:

Check For Water Damage

The number one issue which causes RVs to reach the end of their useful life is water damage. So many RVers purchase trailers and motorhomes with pre-existing water damage inside the walls which is difficult to spot with the naked eye, but lead to a host of issues including rotten structure, interior wall and floor damage, electrical issues, and more!

When looking at a used RV, be sure to check the interior walls for any signs of water staining – including behind any cabinets/cupboards, behind cushions, and especially at the front and rear of the RV. Another test you can do is to apply light pressure to the wall in varying locations – if there is any rotten or compromised wood in behind the wall, it will have a noticeable flex.

ASK FOR MAINTENANCE RECORDS

Over the life of an RV there are many maintenance items which should be addressed. Things like tires, brakes, and the condition of the exterior seals should be checked regularly, and some consumable items such as bearings will need to be replaced. If the maintenance records are available, this shows that the RV was well maintained and cared for, whereas the absence of these records can indicate the opposite.

Check The Appliances

One of the most important parts of an RV are its appliances – without them, it’s very difficult to keep food cold or cook food, generate heat, or have an enjoyable time camping. RV appliances have a useful lifetime, and once exceeded will need to be replaced which will add extra expense. Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure to turn on all appliances and ensure the stove, furnace, water heater, and fridge all fire and function normally. This will also allow you to evaluate whether or not the propane and electrical systems in the RV are functioning correctly.

Questions? Ask The Pros!

We are Edmonton’s most trusted source for RV Parts, Service, Sales, and Advice! Whether you’re in the market for a quality used RV, have one already and need RV Parts or RV Service, or just have questions, we are only a click or call away.

Posted on February 1, 2023February 1, 2023 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

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!

Posted on January 1, 2023February 1, 2023 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

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.

Posted on December 1, 2022November 7, 2022 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

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.

Posted on November 1, 2022November 3, 2022 by Edmonton RV Admin

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.

Posted on October 1, 2022November 4, 2022 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

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.

Posted on September 1, 2022November 4, 2022 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

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.

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?
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.
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.
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.

Posted on August 1, 2022November 4, 2022 by Edmonton RV Admin — Leave a comment

RV Parts and Accessories for a Smooth Camping Trip

If you have been RVing for a while now, you are probably aware of the various things you need to make your trip smoother. There are all kinds of advertised RV parts and accessories that you can consider getting, but the key is picking the most useful ones.

Whether you are experienced with RV life or not, you want to ensure that what you carry with you is stuff you will need for a smooth camping trip. There are going to be RV parts and accessories on the list that are going to surprise you and others you would have never thought about. Visit us today for everything on your list!

RV Parts and Accessories for Camping

To help you have a successful camping trip, consider adding these items to your “must-have” list.

A bar for your screen door – if you have never considered this before, it can be very beneficial. Getting a bar that allows you to hang wet towels, dish towels, air out blankets or other items. A grab bar on your screen door also provides some stability when getting in and out of the RV.

Vent covers for the roof – when it rains, a vent cover can be a lifesaver. No matter how humid and hot it can get inside your RV, having a vent cover will still allow for great airflow that can help you feel more comfortable. Additionally, it helps keep the vents clean.

Water regulator – A regulator is an essential item that you should put on the must-have list for sure. Some campgrounds have very high-water pressure and having this valve will help to avoid a hose blow-out or a pipe burst due to the water being too powerful.

An awning door protection ball – Your awning can be a very expensive piece of material, and you want to protect it. This little ball is an inexpensive way to help keep your awning protected against the sharp edges of your RV doors.

Wheel chocks – When you are parked, wheel chocks are an excellent idea for keeping your RV secure. These inexpensive and lightweight chocks will prevent your RV wheels from slipping or rolling. A set of rubber ones are secure and help provide extra peace of mind when sleeping at night.

Locks for the storage bay – You may not realize it, but the storage bay locks are not as secure as you might think. Some RV storage bays can open to anyone with a CH751 key. Therefore, you want to make sure your bay is secure by changing out the locks with a unique key-based lock.

Want to Know More

If you are looking at adding a few more RV parts and accessories to your RV checklist that will make your camping trip smoother, you can come down and talk to us at Edmonton RV. Our experts can help you determine the right items for the job.