If you have an RV, you need a cell phone signal booster. Honestly I have no idea for the life of me why they just don’t come as standard equipment. You’re spending over $100,000 on an RV (sometimes a lot more than that) and the manufacturer can’t throw in an option that everyone wants? I mean, especially when they’re generally under $600. RVs are notorious for bad cell signal, especially as you get to the back. It’s the way they’re built.
But then again, you probably don’t need me to tell you that. You probably have already decided you need one and you’re thinking about installation. Folks are naturally worried that they won’t be able to do it themselves, adding cost to the equation. Even more, they’re worried about ruining their investment with a poorly placed hole in the roof. So the question at the top of the article becomes very important.
Here’s the honest answer
Every RV is different. But, in almost all cases, you can find a way to avoid drilling a new hole in the roof for the outdoor antenna’s cable. All it takes is a little bit of thinking ahead. Here are three options that have worked for our customers in the past:
1. Use an existing conduit
Chances are, there’s an existing entry point on the roof. It may be where the HVAC system enters the cabin. You don’t need to run the cable through the air ducts, although you can if you want. Generally there’s a conduit for a power line in there and you can fish through there. It’s up to you.
2. Go through an existing slide-out
If your RV has a “slide-out,” you can generally fish the cable through there and into the cabin. The key there is knowing how to do it. Bring the slide-out almost all the way in, leaving a space of about six inches. That should let you feed the cable inside, and once you have the cable secured, you should be able to fully close the slide-out.
3. Use a window cable
A window-entry cable like this one works like magic. You can run the cable through the open window, then the cable is thin enough so the window can completely close without anything getting damaged. The key here is that the cell booster’s outside antenna must have the familiar F connector:
…that you’re familiar with from cable TV and satellite. If it does, then it will be a perfect fit for the window entry cable. You might also need a second cable, which you can get from Solid Signal in the perfect length for your needs. Our most popular cell boosters all use this kind of cable so it works really well.
Chances are…
…one of these options is going to work for you. Chances are you won’t have to drill a special hole. If you decide that you do, there are going to be local shops who can do it right for you. We might even be able to recommend one of them. If you need help with any part of this process, call us! We’re here during East Coast business hours. The number is 888-233-7563 and when you call, you’ll get an expert in our Novi, Michigan offices. If it’s after hours, fill out the form below. We’ll get back to you, usually within one business day.
