Truma Combi 4e Problems

The Truma Combi 4e is a popular heater system found in many caravans, ensuring a cozy temperature even during the colder months. However, like all systems, it can sometimes experience issues. One of the commonly reported problems with this heater is its inability to raise the temperature adequately when using electric power. Let’s delve into the specifics of this problem and explore some potential solutions.

The Problem:

Caravan owners have noted that their Truma Combi 4e heater fails to heat their caravan above 13°C, even after attempting various reset methods. They have tried:

1. Using the reset switch.
2. Disconnecting the electric supply.
3. Unplugging the telephone cable from the heater.
4. Unplugging the telephone wire from the control unit.

Despite these attempts, the heater still doesn’t function optimally.

Possible Causes and Solutions:

1. Amps Setting:
   • Cause: If the Truma Combi 4e heater is set to 4 amps, it might not generate enough heat to make a significant difference, especially in cold weather. A setting of 4 amps only allows the heater to draw around 1kW of power, which can be insufficient for heating the entire caravan.
   • Solution: Before considering hardware faults, check the heater’s amp setting. Switching to a higher setting, such as 8 amps, can often solve the problem. However, some users have reported no difference in temperature even after adjusting the amps.
2. Faulty Heating Elements:
   • Cause: One of the more common hardware issues with the Truma Combi 4e heater is a faulty heating element. If the element fails or doesn’t sit right, it can prevent the heater from working efficiently.
   • Solution: Replacing the heating elements can solve the issue. Some users have found helpful video tutorials on platforms like YouTube that guide through the removal and fitting of these elements. However, be cautious: while it’s not an overly complicated job, the elements can be quite expensive. Furthermore, if the new element isn’t seated correctly, it can blow out again. Due to these challenges, some owners opt to have the replacement done by a dealer, which can come with warranties on parts and labor.
3. Air Temperature Sensor Cable:
   • Cause: A defective air temperature sensor cable can interfere with the heater’s ability to gauge and regulate the caravan’s temperature.
   • Solution: If you suspect this might be the issue, consider purchasing and fitting a new air temperature sensor cable. It’s not a widely confirmed solution, but it’s worth exploring if other methods fail.
4. Gas vs. Electric:
   • Cause: The Truma Combi 4e heater can operate on both gas and electric power. Some users have noticed a difference in performance between the two.
   • Solution: If you’re experiencing problems with the electric setting, try switching to gas (if your system supports it) to see if the heating performance improves. While this doesn’t fix the electric issue, it can be a temporary solution to ensure warmth.

In conclusion, while the Truma Combi 4e heater is an essential feature in many caravans, it isn’t immune to occasional hiccups. By understanding the potential issues and solutions, caravan owners can ensure that they stay warm and comfortable during their trips. If in doubt, seeking professional assistance or advice from fellow caravan enthusiasts can provide valuable insights.