Camping Tent FAQs

Frequently asked questions

• How to maintain the AirFrame?

  Kampa AirPoles do not need any maintenance but should be protected from damage during storage. Damage due to improper use, wind damage or neglect is not covered under the warranty. Have any damage repaired at the first opportunity.

  Over time the AirPoles may twist slightly. This is primarily caused by the awning being under-inflated, however it can also occur during setup or take-down. This can be resolved with some slight adjustment of the tubes.

  Isolation valves on AirFrames may need to be reseated over time.

• How do I clean my awning?

  Dirty awnings can be washed using clean water and a soft brush. Do not scrub and never use detergents.

  If this does not clean the awning, Kampa Awning & Tent Cleaner is available from your supplying retailer. As a precaution, post cleaning, we would always recommend that the awning is re-coated with our Awning & Tent Protector spray as this will provide an added layer of water and UV resistance.

  It is always best to first test a cleaning product on a part of the awning you cannot see in case of any adverse effects the cleaner may cause.

  Bird lime and tree sap should be removed as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage to the material.

• What about awning condensation?

  Under certain conditions, all awnings will suffer from internal condensation.

  Condensation is created by moist warm air coming into contact with a cool surface. This moisture condenses creating water. Depending upon the conditions, condensation could be quite severe and is commonly mistaken for leaking, especially as it can run down the inside of the roof and drip off ties, tapes and other internal fittings.

  A suspected leak will almost certainly turn out to be condensation.

  The primary causes of condensation are:

  • Moisture in the ground.
  • Moisture in the air.
  • The weather.

  Condensation can also be created from:

  People sleeping in the awning.

  • An adult can easily produce 1L of water over 12 hours through breathing.
  • Heaters being used in the awning.
  • Cooking in the awning.
  • Exhaust vents from the vehicle into the awning.
  • Wet items - coats, jackets, towels or even wet dogs.
  • Rainfall - it is not uncommon for condensation to occur from rainfall.
  • Cold rain can rapidly lower the materials temperature whilst the temperature remains warm inside the awning.
  • The warm air comes into contact with the cold material condensing and creating condensation.

  Condensation can be reduced by:

  • Avoiding pitches on wet ground.
  • Good ventilation.
  • Airflow will reduce humidity inside the awning.
  • Turning off heaters used in the awning.
  • Not storing wet items inside the awning.
  • Using a non-breathable waterproof groundsheet.
  • This stops the moisture coming from the ground condensing within the awning and is the most effective way to negate condensation.
  • In some European countries we do not receive reports of condensation as they use non-breathable waterproof groundsheet underneath their awning carpet.

  Roof linings are also available for many of our awnings which help reduce condensation by regulating the temperature inside the awning and catches any drips that fall from the roof and allowing the water to dissipate when conditions improve.

  "I didn't experience condensation with my last awning"

   It is not uncommon for customers to report that they did not experience condensation with their last awning. There are several reasons for this.

  The awning material used on most Kampa awnings has a waterproof PU coating over ints entire surgace and the seams of the awning have been factory taped making the unit fully waterproof. This stops water coming in, however it also stops moisture getting out.

  Most condensation occurs in the off-season - early Spring, Autumn, Winter. Due to ease of use, more customers are pitching their lightweight awning in the off-season where, previously, a traditional awning would have been considered too much hassle to set-up.

  Kampa awnings using Weathershield™ Expert materials will experience reduced condensation as this is a breathable material and more suited to off-season caravanning.

• What is your awnings warranty?

  Kampa awnings are covered by a comprehensive guarantee. We offer an in-depth Customer Services function that can be accessed through the supplying retailer. Kampa will redirect all warranty enquiries to the supplying retailer.

  Our warranty periods (unless otherwise stated):

  • AirFrame/AirPole System - 2 years parts
  • Poles (steel and aluminium) - 1 year parts
  • Fabric - 1 year
  • Other components - 1 year
  • Accessories - 1 year

  The guarantee covers manufacturing faults, materials and parts. All claims must be made via the supplying retailer.

  We recommend that you have a trial run with your awning before using for the first time. This will allow you to familiarise yourself with your awning, it's set up and any limitations the awning may have for your particular use.

  What's not covered?

  Wear and tear
  Some general wear and tear is to be expected with the an awning over time. Kampa stocks a comprehensive range of spare parts so parts can be replaced if required. If used properly, your awning should give you years of trouble free use. To best maintain an awning, please read the 'Awning Care' FAQ section.

  UV degradation
  Awning fabrics can be weakened by prolonged exposure to sunlight. Kampa awning fabric is treated to protect it from UV. Under normal holiday use an awning will give long service, but use for extended periods in strong sunlight will soon cause deterioration. In those cases it would be wise to use a site as shaded as possible. UV degradation is not covered under the warranty.

  Misuse
  If used properly, Kampa awnings should give you years of trouble free use. To best maintain an awning, please read the 'Awning Care' FAQ section.

  Any repairs should only be made by a company recommended by Kampa or the supplying retailer. Any unauthorised repairs and/or alterations may invalidate the warranty.

  Accidental damage
  Kampa recommend that all awnings are insured against accidental and storm damage.

  Storm damage
  Kampa awnings are designed for use in light to moderate weather. During very strong winds or snowfall it is recommended that the awning is taken down. Kampa recommend that all awnings are insured against accidental and storm damage.

  Condensation
  This is not a fault of the awning but due to uncontrollable atmospheric conditions. For more information, please read the 'Condensation' FAQ section.

  Permanent, seasonal, semi-permanent or commercial use
  Our awnings are designed for touring use; they are not designed for static or commercial use, unless otherwise stated.

  *All-Season models have been designed for use on seasonal pitches.

  Consequential losses

• How to maintain the awning flysheet?

  Repairs to the flysheet should be made by a Kampa authorised repair centre or your supplying dealer. Repairs and alterations made by an unauthorised company may invalidate the guarantee.

  Kampa recommend that Kampa Tent & Awning Protector is applied to the flysheet material on an annual basis. Not only will this ensure that the awning remains waterproof, it will also create an extra layer of resistance to UV damage, prolonging the life of an awning.

  Kampa Tent & Awning Protector can also be applied if the awning is leaking. Please note, in our experience the vast majority of suspected leakage is actually condensation.

  If any seam taping has been damaged or come loose, Kampa would recommend it is repaired using product CA9013 – Seam Sealant. This is easily applied and results in a colourless and flexible repair.

• How to maintain the electric pump?

  It is recommended to check electric pumps each time before going away with the awning to ensure that it is still working correctly. Kampa electric pumps require a 12V 10A power source.

  The easiest way to test the pump is by applying your thumb over the nozzle at the end of the hose and then pump the handle, turn the pump and you will feel the pressure building. If you do not feel any pressure, the pump may not be operating correctly or be powered by a sufficient supply, or there may be damage to a part of the hose allowing air to escape. Repair or replace before next use.

• How to maintain the awning hand pump?
  It is recommended to check the awning pump each time before going away with the awning, to ensure that it is still working correctly. The easiest way to test the pump is by applying your thumb over the nozzle at the end of the hose and then pump the handle, if it is very difficult to pump then the pump is working correctly. If it is easy to pump, the bellows may not be pumping air correctly or there may be damage to a part of the hose allowing air to escape. Repair or replace before next use.
• How do drive-away awnings connect to my campervan/motorhome?

  Kampa drive-away awnings can be connected to vehicles in several ways:

  Guy Line Method

  • This is the quickest method.
  • Throw the guy lines, attached to the top corners of the tunnel, over the vehicle and either peg down on the other side or tie to the wheels.
  • Unpeg to drive-away.

  Keder Beading Method (optional accessory recommended)

  • Kampa drive-away awnings come with a 6mm keder beading sewn along the length of the rear tunnel.
  • Attach directly to awning rail (if fitted) or channel of cassette awning.
  • Optional drive-away kit required to drive-away:
    • 6 to 6mm drive-away kit in 3m & 4m lengths.
    • 6 to 4mm drive-away kit in 3m & 4m lengths can be used for attaching to a Fiamma cassette
  • When using a drive-away kit, remove the figure-of-8 profile to drive-away.

  Limpet™ Suction Method (optional accessory required)

  • Utilises Kampa’s Limpet™ Suction Drive-Away Kit.
  • Simply attach the Limpets to a flat, smooth surface on the vehicle and thread the awning keder beading into the figure-of-8 profile.
  • Remove the figure-of-8 profile to drive-away.

  Velcro Loops Method

  • For vehicles fitted with roof rails.
  • Attach the Velcro straps, fitted along the top edge of the tunnel, around the roof rail.
  • Undo Velcro to drive-away.

  Pole & Clamp Method (optional accessory required)

  • The most secure method for vehicles that have a gutter.
  • Requires gutter to run the length of the awning tunnel.
  • Thread pole into sleeve on tunnel edge.
  • Rest pole in gutter and secure with clamps.
  • Remove clamps and pole from gutter to drive-away.

  Magnetic Driveaway Kit Method

  • For vehicles with steel bodywork.
• How to store an awning?

  Awnings are best stored opened out. Air fully and ensure it is fully dry before packing away. Store in a well ventilated dry place. A wet/damp awning will develop mildew surprisingly quickly. Mildew can also form when an awning is left up for long periods of time with poor ventilation.

  Mildew will have a negative effect on the materials PU coating effecting:

  • Water resistance
  • Material longevity
  • If mildew has formed, we recommend the awning is cleaned with our Awning Cleaner and our Super Hydrophobic water proofer is applied to the material.

  Steel and aluminium poles should be stored in a well ventilated dry place. If left wet/damp they could corrode resulting in permanent damage to the poles. To prevent corrosion, poles can be stored with a light coating of petroleum jelly to protect them. Ensure that this is completely removed before use.

  When folding the awning, zips should avoid contact with the windows when possible. Instructions on the best way to fold our awnings are included in the awning user manual.

  Pegs should be cleaned and checked for damage before storage. The awning comes complete with general purpose pegs. These will be suitable for many sites but there will be some instances where different pegs will be necessary.

  If an awning is stored in a very cold location, under 0˚C, it is recommended that it is brought to a warmer temperature before use, particularly the window panels. If left very cold, the windows can split during setup.

• How to repair or replace an AirPole?

  For Air-Frame system awnings you can remove an Air-Pole when the awning is inflated or deflated but if it’s inflated the isolation valves around the Air-Pole must be closed.

  1. Unzip the outer sleeve holding the Air-Pole.
  2. Undo the compression fittings on the affected side of the isolation valve. There may be multiple valves per Air-Pole. You should now be able to remove the Air-Pole.
     NEVER OPEN THE ZIP ON A PROTECTIVE SLEEVE WHILST AN AIR-POLE IS INFLATED.
  3. Unzip the protective sleeve of the Air-Pole to expose the bladder (inner tube).
  4. Locate the puncture. This is made easier if you blow some air into the tube. For small holes it may be necessary to submerge the bladder in water.
  5. Once the puncture has been located the bladder can be repaired using repair tape. We recommend product CA9001 - Awning & Tent Repair Tape.
     
     1. The repair can be enhanced by using a combination of the above and product CA9011 - Repair Solution, which is a flexible adhesive (repair tape and repair solution are available together in kit form). Follow the manufacturer instructions to repair.
     2. Another alternative is to replace the tube. Spares are available from your dealer or direct from Kampa.
  6. Reassemble the Air-Pole, zip back into the sleeve and reconnect the hoses to the isolation valves.
• What awning spare part kits do you recommend?

  We recommend that a comprehensive spares kit is kept with your awning.

  This should include:

  • Awning Cleaner – Kampa Awning & Tent Cleaner will make light work of dirt and other marks.
  • Waterproofing Spray – If you suspect the awning is leaking, Kampa Awning & Tent Protector spray is the quickest way to ensure that the material is watertight. Once applied, any leaks should be immediately resolved. From experience, the vast majority of leak reports are actually condensation. If leaking continues, it is most likely condensation.
  • Seam Sealer – If you suspect the awning is leaking at a specific stitching point, it is best to use seam sealer which should resolve any issues.
  • Repair Tape – Kampa repair tape can be used to temporarily resolve an Air-Pole issues on site before a more permanent solution can be made, as well as repairs to awning windows and flysheet.
  • Spare pegs – These should include pegs for both soft and hard standing pitches.
• What happens to the air in the Kampa AirFrame when the temperature increases?

  While tested to 22psi, the AirFrame system best functions when inflated to 9 psi and is suitable for both hot and cold climates as well as extreme changes in temperature.

  As the AirPoles can cope with extreme changes in temperature, Kampa awnings do not use 'pressure relief valves' as these would unnecessarily expel air from the awning, reducing the stability and requiring more air to be added.

  The below chart displays how the air pressure in an AirPole will vary in different temperatures:

  AirPole Pressure Temperature

  • 12.0 psi 50°C / 122°F
  • 10.5 psi 40°C / 104°F
  • 9.7 psi 30°C / 86°F
  • 9.0 psi 20°C / 68°F
  • 8.2 psi 10°C / 50°F
  • 7.5 psi 0°C / 32°F
  • 6.7 psi -10°C / 14°F
  • 5.9 psi -20°C / -4°F
  • 5.2 psi -30°C / -22°F

  i: An awning inflated to 9 psi at 20°C (68°F) will only increase to 10.5 psi at 40°C (104°F), well within the awnings tested maximum air pressure of 22 psi.

• What drive-away awning will fit my campervan/motorhome?

  Kampa drive-away awnings are designed to suit a wide variety of campervans and motorhomes.

  Height

  A variety of awning tunnel heights are available within the Kampa drive-away awning range to suit a wide variety of different vehicle connection heights. The table below shows the tunnel heights for the majority of the current range.
  
  The connection height is adjustable from the use of tunnel tensioning straps and adjustable pegging straps, located on the rear tunnel of the awning. Taller vehicles will use require less tensioning, shorter vehicles will require more. The main body of the awning will always sit flush.

  i: Connecting tunnels are universal fit, this means they will work better on some vehicles than others.

  The tunnel is a convenience feature to allow the you to stay dry when accessing the awning from and to the vehicle. Many factors influence the performance of the tunnel including the parking distance which varies each time the customer returns to the awning, pegging of the tunnel and good use of the adjustment straps. As it is a universal fit rain can still potentially access the tunnel of the awning where the tunnel is not tight to the vehicle. You should expect bagginess in the tunnel which can lead to collection of water during periods of rain.

  Models Version To Fit

  • Travel Pod Cross AIR & TG Both 180-210 cm
  • Travel Pod Action, Trip AIR & Poled 180-210 cm
  • Travel Pod Touring AIR TC 180-210 cm
  • Travel Pod Touring AIR 180-210 cm
  • Travel Pod Tailgater AIR & Poled 160-210 cm

  Width

  The width of the awning tunnel is dependent upon the size of the vehicle and the needs of the customer. Various sizes are available within the range. When choosing the customer needs to consider the following.

  Door position

  Room in the tunnel for the door to open?

  Kampa drive-away awnings can cross windows and doors without issue, however accessibility to these parts may be limited.

• Do awning windows fold?

  Kampa use a high quality window material designed to give the clearest view out. Due to environmental regulations, the composition of the window material means that there may be some impressions in the window, particularly after storage and folding. These are not faults. We suggest, particularly in cold conditions, and certainly in sub-zero temperatures, that the awning/panels containing the windows are thoroughly warmed up before set up.

  Kampa windows have been tested to -20°C but it is essential that the windows are prewarmed before unfolding.

  Before unfolding the windows can be warmed up by bringing the awning into a warm vehicle, or by applying heat directly to the windows with a hair dryer or similar appliance.

  Cloudy marks can sometimes form on the window material if packed slightly damp. This can be resolved by good tensioning of the awning and heat from the sun when next setup. Deeper marks, such as zip marks and folds, can be improved by applying heat directly to the window with a hair dryer or similar appliance.

  Whilst we do not recommend use of our awnings in snowy conditions, many customers still do. We would recommend that any snow build up against the awning windows should be immediately removed as the cold surface and pressure from the snow can cause damage to the windows including small splits.

• How to maintain the awning zips?

  Zips should be treated with care, use two hands to close and open and never tread on them. Never force a zip. The tent should always be pegged with the zips closed to ensure they will close correctly and without force.

  Silicone spray, or waterproofing products like our Awning & Tent Protector, can also be applied to the zips to aid with lubrication.