Q: We have power awnings that will no longer extend. I hear a clicking sound when I push the button, but that’s it. Not long ago, the awnings were slow to retract. Now, it’s like they’ve died. What happened and how can I fix it?
A: Low voltage would be the first item to check if an awning is slow to retract. Check this with a volt meter while trying to operate the awning. I suspect your volt meter will show a low voltage when you operate the awning. This low voltage problem could increase amperage draw and blow a fuse in the awning control box. This control box (located in different spots depending on your RV’s make and model) will likely have a fuse that needs to be replaced.
Q: I use my jacks to raise my RV to take pressure off the tires when my RV is parked for extended periods of time. Should I be worried about my jacks rusting over time since they are exposed to the outdoor elements?
A: Keep your jacks clean by occasionally wiping them down with a transmission fluid soaked rag. This will protect them from rust and corrosion. However, a saltwater atmosphere can present corrosion problems for your RV beyond the jacks. A tip for those near the beach: Put a lawn sprinkler in the parking lot and slowly drive over it to rinse under the RV (this also works for those coming from salt covered winter roads).
Q: My electronic climate control seems to be taxed. The shed lights seem to flash when both A/C units are running. But it does not seem to be happening in the morning and the evening. Do you think the excessive heat we are having is too much for the A/C units to handle during the day?
A: When the thermostat calls for cooling, the red and green lights will flash indicating a time delay. The fan will start first and the compressor will start approximately three minutes later. Only after the compressor has started will you see a solid green light. If the red light is solid, it indicates that the (front or rear or both) air conditioner has been shed or turned off because other loads have been turned on without sufficient power to operate everything. When those other appliances are turned off, you will see flashing lights again indicating a time delay followed by a solid green light.
Q: What kind of season do you think the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have this year?
A: The Bucs should improve from last year’s 3-13 record. Some football teams are like fine wines: They have to spend some time in the cellar before they can be appreciated.