Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ Review

Let’s Talk About Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′

The Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ promises to transform your RV awning into a bug-free, comfortable extension of your living space. Offered by Lippert, a name known for RV components, this screen room boasts easy setup and compatibility with a wide range of awning types, intending to enhance your outdoor experience without the nuisance of insects. The promise of a cool, shaded refuge from both bugs and harsh sunlight is a compelling one, especially for those of us who cherish outdoor living.

For years, I’ve struggled with finding a truly effective and easy-to-use screen solution for my RV awning. Mosquitoes, gnats, and other flying pests have often curtailed my enjoyment of the outdoors, forcing me back inside sooner than I’d like. I needed a solution that was more than just a simple bug net; I needed a true “room” that provided both protection and a feeling of enclosure.

Upon unboxing the Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′, I was immediately struck by the seemingly robust materials. The screen mesh felt durable, and the overall construction appeared solid. While the tan color was neutral and likely effective at blocking some sunlight, I initially worried it might appear a bit drab.

I considered other options, including universal bug nets and custom-made screen enclosures. However, the Lippert offering stood out due to its advertised compatibility with various awning sizes and its claim of not interfering with the rain dump feature on powered awnings. That feature was crucial for me.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The potential was there for a fantastic addition to my RV setup, but I reserved full judgment until I could put it through its paces in real-world conditions.


Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ on a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. The area is known for its beautiful scenery, but also its aggressive mosquito population, making it the perfect testing ground. Setting up the screen room took a little longer than I expected initially, primarily due to aligning the panels correctly with my awning.

The room proved its worth immediately; despite the swarms of mosquitoes outside, we were able to comfortably enjoy our meals and evening card games inside. Even though it was a warm day, the tan color did a surprisingly good job of filtering the sunlight and keeping the screen room cooler than the direct sun. There were no problems with the rain dump feature during a brief afternoon shower.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple camping trips, the Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ has proven to be a valuable addition to my RV setup. The screen material has shown no signs of tearing or damage, even after a particularly windy weekend. Cleaning the screen room is relatively easy; a quick spray with a hose and some mild soap does the trick.

Compared to previous attempts at using simpler bug nets, the Lippert screen room is a night-and-day improvement. It offers a sense of privacy and enclosure that nets simply can’t provide, truly extending the livable space of my RV. I am happy.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′

Specifications

  • The Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ is designed to fit most 10′-21′ manual and power awnings (in 1′ increments). This broad range ensures compatibility with a significant number of RV setups.
  • Crucially, it’s designed not to interfere with the rain dump feature of a 12V DC Powered Awning. This prevents water pooling on your awning during rain, a common issue with other screen rooms.
  • The screen room accommodates RVs with awning rail-to-ground measurements of 101″. Ensuring your RV falls within this range is crucial for proper fitment.
  • It fits 8′ extension Solera, Carefree, and Dometic awnings. Covering the most popular brands in the market gives buyers flexibility.
  • The ’12’ in the product name refers to the center-of-arm-to-center-of-arm awning measurement needed. This measurement is key in selecting the appropriate size for your awning.

These specifications ensure a broad compatibility and functionality that addresses common concerns with RV screen rooms.

Performance & Functionality

The Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ excels at its primary function: creating a bug-free outdoor space. The fine mesh effectively keeps out even the smallest insects, allowing for comfortable outdoor dining and relaxation. While setup can be a bit fiddly initially, once you get the hang of it, the process becomes relatively quick and straightforward.

The biggest strength is its compatibility with the rain dump feature on powered awnings; this is a significant advantage over many competing products. A minor weakness is the lack of included ground stakes, which would improve stability in windy conditions. Overall, it meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ is generally good. The screen material feels durable, and the zippers operate smoothly. The tan color is functional, if not particularly stylish.

The design is relatively user-friendly, although clear instructions for initial setup would be beneficial. There is a slight learning curve associated with attaching the screen room to the awning, but it’s manageable.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ appears to be built to last. The materials are holding up well to regular use and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water.

With proper care, I expect this screen room to provide several years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ comes as a standalone unit with the necessary screen panels and attachment hardware. There are limited customization options directly from Lippert. However, users can add aftermarket accessories such as ground stakes for added stability.

Compatibility with generic RV awning accessories is good, allowing for some personalization of the setup.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′

Pros

  • Provides effective bug protection, creating a comfortable outdoor space.
  • Does not interfere with the rain dump feature of powered awnings.
  • Compatible with a wide range of awning sizes and brands.
  • Easy to clean and maintain.
  • Offers a sense of privacy and enclosure compared to simple bug nets.

Cons

  • Setup can be a bit fiddly initially, requiring some patience.
  • Lacks included ground stakes for added stability in windy conditions.
  • Tan color might not appeal to everyone aesthetically.


Who Should Buy Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′?

The Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ is perfect for RVers who frequently camp in areas with high insect populations. It’s also ideal for those who value having an extended outdoor living space that is protected from the elements. Families with young children and pet owners will appreciate the added safety and security the screen room provides.

This product might not be necessary for RVers who primarily camp in dry, arid climates with minimal insect activity. Those who prioritize ultra-fast setup and teardown might also find the initial setup process a bit cumbersome. Must-have accessories include heavy-duty ground stakes and potentially a small outdoor rug to define the enclosed space.

Conclusion on Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′

Overall, the Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ is a worthwhile investment for RVers seeking to enhance their outdoor living experience. The price of $719.99 is justified by the improved comfort, bug protection, and added functionality it provides. I would definitely recommend it to fellow RV enthusiasts looking for a reliable and effective screen room solution.

If you’re tired of battling bugs and want to truly enjoy your time outdoors, give the Lippert 362215 Solera Screen Room 12′ a try. It’s a game-changer.

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