So you’re in the market for a new RV and want the latest and greatest tech features, eh? As an RV enthusiast myself, I totally get the appeal of having an RV that practically levels itself at the push of a button. RV auto-leveling systems have come a super long way in recent years, so there’s never been a better time to get your hands on a high-tech camper!
In this article, I’ll give you the lowdown on some of the most exciting new developments in RV auto-leveling tech that can make camping in your home on wheels an absolute cinch. I’ll chat about the different types of leveling systems, key features to look for, what to expect in terms of cost, and plenty more.
So cozy up in your camp chair, roast a virtual marshmallow, and let’s nerd out about this cool tech that’ll let you focus on the important stuff, like taking in the gorgeous scenery and making new happy memories.
A Quick Intro to RV Auto-Leveling Systems
Before we dig into the new snazzy developments, let’s quickly cover the basics of RV auto-leveling systems. Essentially, these high-tech systems use a series of sensors, hydraulic jacks, and computer-controlled motors to get your RV perfectly level with just the push of a button – no frustrating guesswork or getting dirt under your fingernails trying to stuff blocks under the tires required!
There are a few different types of leveling systems:
- Full Auto Leveling: This is the true set-it-and-forget-it system. Just push a button and it completely levels your RV for you, no hassle! This usually comes with 4-6 hydraulic jacks.
- Auto Leveling Assist: Gives you a little more control. You position the RV close to level, and the assist feature fine tunes it from there. Comes with 2-4 jacks.
- Jack Sensor: No automation here, but digital sensors help guide you in manually getting level. Good budget choice!
The latest and greatest RV tech focuses on fully-automatic smart leveling capabilities though, so that’s what we’ll mostly chat about here. Let’s get to the good stuff!
Key Benefits of High-Tech Auto Leveling
As with any new tech, you’re probably wondering: what’s in it for me? (A fair question, my friend.) Here are some of the biggest benefits you can look forward to:
Total Convenience
This one’s a no-brainer. Being able to tap a button to completely level your enormous home on wheels? Heck yes! No more wrestling with flimsy blocks and driving up on wobbly planks. Just easy, breezy leveling every time.
Increased Stability
When your RV is perfectly leveled, it’s also way more stable and less likely to rock and sway as you move around inside. This makes it safer too – no more worrying about accidentally tipping the whole rig!
System Checks and Alerts
Top auto-leveling systems run automatic checks to let you know if anything is off, and will stop the process and alert you if it detects any problems. Gives you serious peace of mind.
One-Touch Functions
High-end systems let you program one-touch favorites for quick leveling at campsites you visit regularly. Super handy!
Works on Extreme Terrain
Smart leveling tech is designed to work on uneven sites and major slopes. Take that, crazy inclines!
As my Aunt Jenny always says, “If it takes the hassle out of something, it’s worth every penny!” And auto leveling tech definitely fits the bill.
Key Features to Look For
Alright, you’re sold on getting a high-tech auto leveling system on your new rig! But how do you pick the best system for your needs? Here are the key features I’d recommend keeping an eye out for as you shop:
Automatic Jack Retract
Models like the HWH Air Leveling System have a neat feature where holding the auto-level button for 3 seconds in ignition tells the jacks to retract and tuck back in. Talk about handy!
Slope Compensation
This makes sure you get a nice and level setup even on an angled site. The Valterra Vertex Automatic Leveling System offers top-notch slope compensation.
Jack Down Detection
High-end systems have sensors that tell you if a jack has failed to deploy or retract fully, so you never drive away with a jack still down! That happened to my buddy Ralph one time and it was bad news.
Emergency Stop
Look for an emergency stop button that immediately halts the leveling process if needed. You can never be too safe!
Jack Motor Overload Protection
Prevents motor burnout by shutting the system down if it detects too much strain on the jacks. Very reassuring!
Battery Monitoring
Displays current battery level so you know if you have enough juice to complete the leveling operation. Super helpful to avoid getting stranded mid-level!
Automatic Re-Start After Power Loss
If the system loses power mid-level, it’ll pick up right where it left off when power is restored. No starting from scratch!
Wireless Remote Operation
Having the ability to operate the leveling system from outside via remote control is incredibly handy. Be sure to get a model with a sufficiently long operating range!
User-Friendly Touchscreen Display
An intuitive touchscreen panel on the inside of the RV lets you control and monitor the leveling operation. Makes things so simple!
As you can see, there are a ton of savvy features that set apart basic systems from truly advanced auto leveling tech. Keep this checklist handy as you weigh your options!
What Does All This Fancy Tech Cost?
You might be thinking: whoa, this stuff sounds great, but it’s gotta be crazy expensive! While auto leveling systems do represent a larger investment, many RV owners find the convenience and ease absolutely worth the price tag. Here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect:
- Basic systems: $1,500 – $3,000
- Mid-range systems: $3,000 – $5,000
- High-end systems: $5,000 – $7,000+
Big variances in price depend on the number of jacks, level of automation, and features included. High-end systems with all the bells and whistles will be on the pricier end. Though it may seem steep initially, keeping convenience and long-term use in mind makes the expense easier to digest.
And you can take comfort in the fact that adding an automated leveling system often increases an RV’s resale value down the road. That helped convince my cousin Bobby when he was on the fence about splurging!
Key Brands to Consider
Alright, let’s chat brands! There are a few top companies consistently leading the pack when it comes to RV auto-leveling tech. Here’s a quick download on some of the best brands to keep on your shopping radar:
HWH Corporation: Hands-down the most popular brand for RV auto leveling. Used by a huge percentage of RV manufacturers. Known for super reliable, easy-to-use systems. The HWH Air Leveling System is their flagship product.
Valterra Products: Known for rugged systems that can handle extreme terrains. The Vertex Automatic Leveling System is their star player.
Lippert Components: Major RV supplier that makes the Level Up Automatic Leveling System. User-friendly with great support.
Morryde: Specializes in heavy duty applications. The CRE3000 Rubber Pin Box with Leveling System is their claim to fame.
Bigfoot Hydraulic Leveling Systems: Smaller brand, but quality systems. The Hydraulic Leveling System with 5 Landing Jacks is very popular.
Ask which brand of leveling system is used when inquiring with RV dealers. Stick with tried and true industry leaders like HWH for best results. And don’t hesitate to chat with salespeople about the nitty gritty tech specs!
Key Questions to Ask Your Dealer
Speaking of nitty gritty tech specs, here are some key questions I’d recommend asking RV dealers when weighing different systems:
- How many jacks are included?
- Is it fully automatic or assist leveling?
- What safety features are built in?
- Does it have slope compensation capability?
- How easy is the control panel to operate?
- How far can I control it from with the remote?
- Does it have one-touch memory functions?
- Are the jacks hydraulic or electric?
- What is the maximum slope it can handle?
- Does the system run self-diagnostics?
- Is the system made by HWH, Valterra, Lippert, or Bigfoot?
- What is the warranty period for the system?
Don’t be shy about geekily grilling dealers on the specs and capabilities you care about. This is a BIG investment, so make sure all your bases are covered!
Key Factors to Weigh
Let’s round things out by recapping the key factors to keep in mind as you evaluate different systems:
- Level of Automation – Do you want full auto or assist leveling?
- Number of Jacks – More jacks provide greater stability. 4-6 is ideal.
- Control Panel – Make sure it’s user-friendly and displays helpful info.
- Safety Features – The more the better! Slope compensation is huge.
- Brand Reputation – Stick with trusted industry leaders.
- Warranty – Aim for at least 1-2 years of decent coverage.
- Ease of Use – Test drive the system in person when possible.
- Special Features – One-touch memory, remote control range, etc.
- Customer Support – Chat with actual owners about post-purchase experience.
- Cost – Weigh value vs sticker price. Don’t undermine convenience!
Take your time, do your homework, and choose the system that checks all YOUR must-have boxes. Then get ready to have your mind blown by the sheer awesomeness of auto leveling magic!
Time to Level Up Your RV Game
Well friends, that wraps up my overview of the marvelous world of RV auto-leveling systems! I don’t know about you, but learning about the latest tech makes me want to hit the road in an RV ASAP to try it out firsthand. It’s incredible how far leveling systems have advanced in recent years thanks to clever innovation.
Hopefully this intel gives you a great jumping off point to pick the perfect high-tech system that meets your needs and budget. And more than anything, I hope it gets you pumped up to take your RV adventures to the next level.
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