Opening your travel trailer awning transforms a simple campsite into a comfortable outdoor living space, shielding you from the sun and light rain. The process typically involves releasing travel locks, extending support arms, and unrolling the awning fabric, but understanding the nuances ensures a smooth and safe setup every time.
Understanding Your Awning Type
Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to identify the type of awning installed on your travel trailer. There are two primary categories: manual awnings and electric awnings. Each operates on a different mechanism and requires a specific set of steps for deployment. Identifying yours will greatly simplify the opening process.
- Manual Awnings: These are operated entirely by hand using a crank or pull strap. They are generally more affordable and require no electrical power. They are favored for their simplicity and reliability.
- Electric Awnings: These awnings utilize an electric motor controlled by a switch or remote. They offer convenience and ease of use, especially for larger awnings.
Opening a Manual Travel Trailer Awning: A Step-by-Step Guide
This section outlines the typical steps for opening a manual awning. Remember to always consult your specific awning’s user manual, as procedures may vary slightly.
Step 1: Prepare for Deployment
Before touching the awning, ensure the area around your travel trailer is clear of obstacles, including trees, branches, and other campers. This prevents potential damage during the extension process.
- Locate the Awning Locks: These are typically found near the top of the awning, securing it to the trailer wall during travel.
- Release the Travel Locks: Depending on the design, this might involve flipping latches, twisting levers, or removing pins.
- Extend the Support Arms: These arms are usually located near the bottom of the awning. Carefully extend them outwards, ensuring they are fully extended and locked into place.
Step 2: Unroll the Awning
This is the core step in opening your manual awning.
- Locate the Pull Strap or Crank Handle: The pull strap is usually hanging near the center of the awning. If you have a crank handle, it will attach to a mechanism on the awning’s side.
- Carefully Unroll the Awning: Using the pull strap or crank handle, slowly unroll the awning fabric. Avoid sudden jerks or excessive force. Keep an eye on the awning’s alignment, ensuring it rolls out evenly.
Step 3: Adjust and Secure
Once the awning is fully unrolled, you can adjust its height and angle for optimal shade and drainage.
- Adjust Awning Height: Most awnings have adjustable support legs that allow you to customize the awning’s height.
- Secure the Awning: Use stakes and ropes to secure the awning’s legs to the ground, especially in windy conditions. This prevents the awning from collapsing or being damaged.
Opening an Electric Travel Trailer Awning: Effortless Shade
Electric awnings offer a simpler and more convenient opening process. However, it’s still important to follow safety precautions and understand the operating procedure.
Step 1: Preparation and Power
Before operating the electric awning, ensure your travel trailer is properly leveled and stabilized.
- Check Power Supply: Verify that your travel trailer is connected to a reliable power source or that your battery is fully charged.
- Clear the Area: As with manual awnings, ensure the area around the travel trailer is clear of obstructions.
Step 2: Extend the Awning
This is where the electric motor takes over.
- Locate the Awning Switch or Remote: The switch is usually located inside the travel trailer, near the entry door. Some awnings come with a remote control.
- Press the “Extend” Button: Hold the “Extend” button until the awning is fully extended. Monitor the awning’s movement, ensuring it extends smoothly and evenly.
Step 3: Adjustment and Security
Even with electric awnings, adjustments and securing are important.
- Adjust Awning Pitch (if applicable): Some electric awnings allow you to adjust the pitch for better water runoff.
- Secure the Awning (if needed): While electric awnings are generally sturdier, it’s still recommended to secure them with stakes and ropes in windy conditions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, opening your travel trailer awning doesn’t go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to address them.
- Awning is Stuck: Check for any obstructions, such as twigs or debris, preventing the awning from moving. Also, ensure the travel locks are fully released.
- Awning Rolls Up Unevenly: Try gently guiding the awning as it rolls out. If the problem persists, consult a professional.
- Electric Awning Won’t Extend: Check the power supply, the fuse, and the awning switch. If the problem continues, there may be an issue with the motor.
FAQs: Your Awning Questions Answered
Here are 12 frequently asked questions designed to further clarify the process and address common concerns regarding travel trailer awnings:
FAQ 1: What tools do I need to open my travel trailer awning?
Generally, for manual awnings, you might need a crank handle (if applicable), gloves for grip, and stakes with ropes for securing the awning legs. For electric awnings, no tools are typically required.
FAQ 2: How often should I lubricate my awning mechanism?
Lubrication is recommended at least twice a year, especially before and after the camping season. Use a silicone-based lubricant on moving parts like hinges and rollers.
FAQ 3: Can I leave my awning open in the rain?
While awnings provide some protection from rain, heavy downpours and strong winds can cause damage. It’s best to retract your awning during severe weather. If it’s a light rain, angle one side lower than the other to allow water to run off preventing pooling.
FAQ 4: How do I clean my travel trailer awning?
Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft brush to clean your awning fabric. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the material. Always allow the awning to dry completely before retracting it.
FAQ 5: What do I do if my awning fabric tears?
Small tears can often be repaired with awning repair tape. For larger tears, consult a professional awning repair service.
FAQ 6: How can I prevent my awning from sagging?
Ensure the awning support arms are fully extended and locked into place. Adjust the awning height as needed to maintain proper tension. You can also purchase anti-sag kits for added support.
FAQ 7: What is the best way to store my awning during the off-season?
Clean and dry the awning thoroughly before storing it. Cover it with an awning storage cover to protect it from the elements and pests.
FAQ 8: Can I add an awning to my travel trailer if it didn’t come with one?
Yes, you can purchase and install aftermarket awnings. However, it’s crucial to choose the right size and type for your travel trailer and to follow the installation instructions carefully. Consider professional installation for optimal results.
FAQ 9: My electric awning keeps tripping the circuit breaker. What could be the problem?
This could be due to a faulty motor, low voltage, or a short circuit. Check the wiring connections and consult a qualified electrician if the problem persists.
FAQ 10: How high should I set my awning for optimal shade?
The ideal height depends on the angle of the sun and your personal preference. Experiment with different heights to find the sweet spot that provides the most shade.
FAQ 11: What are “de-flappers” and do I need them?
De-flappers are devices that attach to your awning fabric to prevent it from flapping in the wind. They can significantly reduce noise and prevent damage to the awning. They are highly recommended, especially in windy areas.
FAQ 12: How much weight can my travel trailer awning support?
Awnings are designed to provide shade and protection from light rain, not to support heavy loads. Avoid hanging items from your awning, as this can damage the frame or fabric.