The awning: probably the most important accessory for a motorhome or Camper Van. This article summarises information on the subject of awnings.
Putting up and taking down the awning
Ideally, there should be two of you when carrying out the awning bodywork. To begin with, extend the awning far enough so that you can remove the support feet from the front profile. Next, push the support legs apart until they touch the floor, and lock them into place. You can then extend the awning further using the crank handle. Don’t forget to move the support feet forwards accordingly. Please ensure that one of the support legs is set lower to allow for any water to drain away. This will help prevent damage to the cloth caused by large amounts of water collecting on it. Next, secure the clamping arm.
The breakdown happens exactly the other way round. Loosen the tension arm and start retracting the awning. Next, secure the support feet in the front rail and retract the awning completely.
If you are using a product to tension the awning, fit it after you have completed the awning bodywork, and remove it before you retract the awning.
You will find further information on how to put up and take down the awning correctly in the operating instructions for your awning.
Using the awning in rain and wind
Essentially, the awning on your motorhome serves as sun protection. However, it can also be used in light rain. The following applies: Severe weather can cause damage to awnings and vehicles. To help prevent this, we have put together a few tips for you here:
In strong winds, snow, rain or hail, you should retract the awning.
If you position one of the support legs lower than the other, water can drain off the awning more easily and you’ll avoid damaging the awning fabric.
Lock the clamping arms and support feet securely.
Fitting a guy rope set provides additional protection against damage to the awning.
Care and cleaning
We have summarised a few cleaning tips for your awning here:
Where possible, you should avoid rolling up the awning fabric whilst it is wet.
Can’t you dry the awning before setting off? Please retract the awning as soon as possible and allow the awning fabric to dry completely to prevent mould from forming.
Clean the awning fabric using only water or a PVC cleaner.
Regularly treat the hinge joints between the jointed arms and the front profile with silicone spray.
Tip
Do not extend the awning directly under a tree to avoid any potential resin stains on the awning fabric.
If in doubt, please refer to the operating instructions for your awning.