Let’s Dive into RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″
The RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ is a simple yet essential accessory for any RV owner looking to add a touch of convenience to their camping experience. Manufactured by RV Designer, this door holder promises to keep your RV’s entry door securely propped open, eliminating the hassle of constantly battling the wind or awkwardly maneuvering around a partially closed door.
I decided to try the RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ because I was tired of my RV door slamming shut at the most inopportune times. The flimsy magnetic catches that came standard with my travel trailer were useless against even the slightest breeze, and I was constantly searching for makeshift doorstops.
Upon unboxing the RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″, my initial impression was of basic functionality over fancy aesthetics. The white plastic looked durable enough for its intended purpose, and the included mounting screws were a welcome addition. It was lightweight and compact, a good start.
I considered other options, like the metal spring-loaded door holders, but worried about potential rust and the more involved installation. Simpler magnetic options looked equally inadequate to the strong winds I often encountered. The RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ seemed like a good balance of price, ease of installation, and expected functionality.
Honestly, my first reaction was a bit underwhelming, but hopeful. It’s a basic piece of plastic, but if it does what it promises, it’s worth its weight in gold.
Real-World Testing: Putting RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ came during a weekend camping trip to a moderately windy location near the coast. I installed the door holder quickly using the included screws and a basic screwdriver.
The door holder worked flawlessly in relatively calm conditions, holding the door securely open. However, when the wind picked up, the plastic clip struggled to maintain its grip. It popped out a few times, which was frustrating.
The installation was very straightforward, and I appreciated that. No surprises there.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several camping trips spanning a few months, the RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ has held up reasonably well, but with caveats. The plastic hasn’t cracked or discolored despite exposure to sun and rain.
However, the clip’s holding power hasn’t improved with time. It still struggles in windy conditions, and I’ve had to resort to using a bungee cord as a backup on particularly blustery days. Cleaning is simple; just wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous experiences with makeshift doorstops, this is a step up in convenience, but not a perfect solution. I hoped for something more reliable in all weather conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″
Specifications
- Holder Length: 5.5 inches. This length is crucial for ensuring the door stays open at a comfortable angle without obstructing pathways.
- Material: Durable plastic. While lightweight and rust-resistant, the plastic construction may not be as robust as metal alternatives.
- Color: White. A neutral color that blends in with most RV exteriors.
- Includes: One plunger, one base, and four mounting screws. The inclusion of mounting hardware simplifies installation.
- Model: E247. Specifies the particular model variant.
These specifications, while basic, define the intended use and limitations of the product. Knowing it’s plastic, I temper my expectations for extreme durability.
Performance & Functionality
The RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ performs adequately in calm conditions, reliably holding the RV door open. It’s easy to use – simply push the plunger into the base to secure the door.
Its main weakness is its susceptibility to wind. Strong gusts can easily dislodge the plunger, rendering it ineffective. It meets the basic expectation of holding the door open, but not consistently.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetics. The white plastic is unobtrusive, and the clip mechanism is straightforward.
There’s no real learning curve; anyone can figure out how to use it in seconds. Installation is quick and easy.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction seems reasonably durable, but its long-term resistance to UV damage and impacts is questionable. It’s easy to clean with soap and water.
Replacement would likely be more cost-effective than repair if it were to break. For the price, it’s somewhat disposable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ doesn’t offer many accessories or customization options. The main variation is color; it’s available in white and colonial white.
It’s a standalone product designed for a specific purpose and doesn’t require or support additional accessories.
Pros and Cons of RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″
Pros
- Easy to install with included mounting screws.
- Simple and intuitive to use.
- Inexpensive and readily available.
- Lightweight and rust-resistant plastic construction.
- Keeps the RV door open in calm conditions.
Cons
- Not reliable in windy conditions; the clip easily dislodges.
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Limited aesthetic appeal.
Who Should Buy RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″?
The RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ is perfect for RV owners who primarily camp in calm weather conditions and are looking for a simple, inexpensive solution to keep their door open. It’s also a good option for those who prioritize ease of installation and don’t want to deal with more complex or permanent door-holding solutions.
Those who frequently camp in windy areas or require a more robust and reliable door holder should skip this product. Look for metal spring-loaded options or magnetic holders with stronger magnets.
A bungee cord or secondary latching mechanism is a must-have accessory to ensure the door stays put in less-than-ideal conditions.
Conclusion on RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″
The RV Designer Plastic Clip-Style Entry Door Holder 5.5″ is a budget-friendly option for RV owners seeking a basic door-holding solution. It’s easy to install and use, but its performance in windy conditions is a significant drawback.
The price is justified for its simplicity and ease of installation, but don’t expect it to be a heavy-duty solution.
I would recommend it with reservations. It’s fine for calm weather, but be prepared to supplement it with something else when the wind picks up. If you’re after rock-solid reliability, spend a bit more on a sturdier alternative. But if you need a quick, cheap, and easy fix for calm days, give it a try.