As the weather warms up and you prepare for your next adventure, your RV awning will become a key part of your outdoor living space. Whether you're seeking shade on a hot afternoon or shelter from a light drizzle, keeping your awning in top condition ensures it serves you well all season. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of operating, cleaning, and protecting your awning to help you enjoy every moment outdoors.
Operating Your RV Awning: Best Practices
Before extending your awning, make sure your RV is level and stabilized. This prevents twisting or strain on the awning arms. Always clear the area of branches or other obstacles, and never force the awning if it resists—this could indicate debris or mechanical issues.
Manual vs. Power Awnings:
- Manual awnings require you to release travel locks and use a pull rod to extend and secure the awning.
- Power awnings operate with the push of a button, but you should still supervise the movement closely and avoid holding the switch down longer than needed.
Wind & Weather Awareness
Most awnings are not built to withstand strong winds or heavy rain. As a rule of thumb:
- Retract your awning if winds exceed 15–20 mph.
- Never leave the awning extended while you’re away from your campsite.
- Rainwater can pool in the fabric and cause sagging—if a surprise shower rolls in, lower one side slightly to let water drain.
Cleaning Your Awning Fabric
Cleaning your awning regularly helps prevent mildew, staining, and fabric breakdown. Follow these steps:
- Extend the awning fully.
- Rinse with fresh water to remove surface debris.
- Use a soft brush and a solution of mild soap and water to gently scrub.
- Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before rolling it back in.
Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, which can damage both fabric and hardware.
Hardware Maintenance & Inspections
Inspect your awning arms and brackets regularly for signs of rust, loose bolts, or damage. Lubricate moving parts with a manufacturer-approved dry silicone spray. If your awning retracts unevenly or makes unusual noises, consult your owner's manual or visit an authorized dealer for service.
Awning Brands Used in Keystone RVs
Keystone RVs are equipped with awnings from trusted partners including Dometic, Carefree of Colorado, and Lippert. If you’d like to learn more about the operation or care of your specific awning brand, we encourage you to explore their owner resources:
For More Detail: Check Your Keystone Owner’s Manual
Your Keystone Owner’s Manual includes specific instructions and safety guidelines based on your model and awning type. Always reference your manual before attempting repairs or deep maintenance.
Download your Keystone Owner’s Manual here
Wrapping Up
With the right attention and awareness, your awning will stay in great condition season after season. Whether you're kicking back in the shade or packing up before a storm, a little preparation keeps your outdoor space safe, clean, and comfortable. Have a funny awning mishap or memorable moment to share? We’d love to hear it! Send your story to iamkeystonenation@keystonerv.com.