Truma Ultrastore Water Heater Problems
The Truma Ultrastore is a popular water heater choice for many caravan enthusiasts. Known for its efficiency and reliability, this water heater typically functions well under both electric and gas operations. However, like any other appliance, the Truma Ultrastore is not without its occasional hiccups. Here, we break down some of the common issues users have faced and how to potentially resolve them.
Problem: Difficulty Operating on Gas
Several caravan users have reported that while their Truma Ultrastore heats water efficiently using mains electric, they face challenges when switching to gas. Symptoms of this issue include the green light turning on initially, only to be replaced by the red warning light within seconds. Despite the main heating system (like the Truma Ultraheat) working fine on gas, the water heater seems to falter.
Possible Solutions:
- Flue Cover: Ensure that the flue cover on the outside of the caravan is removed. The flue cover’s primary function is to prevent unwanted elements from entering, but if it’s kept on while operating, it can obstruct air supply to the burner, causing inefficiencies.
- Battery Voltage: Sometimes, a low battery voltage might cause the unit to shut down when operating on gas. This is because the flame failure/ignition system relies on the battery. It’s advisable to either have a fully charged leisure battery or to connect the caravan to the mains for recharging before attempting to use the heater on gas.
- Gas Unit Issues: In some cases, the issue might originate from the gas unit of the water heater itself. If this is the root cause, it might require a professional repair. Typically, out-of-warranty repairs can cost around £100 or more depending on the complexity.
- Listening for Sounds: Lifting the bunk and listening carefully might provide clues. Ideally, you should hear the gas valve open, followed by a faint ‘clunk’ and the ticking of a spark before the red light comes on. If you don’t, it might indicate an internal component failure.
- Dampness: If the caravan has been unused for a prolonged period, dampness can affect the water heater’s functionality. Running the heater on mains for a day can dry out the moisture and restore its function.
- Control Board Contacts: A recurrent solution that has helped many users revolves around the control board. The control board slides into a slot and clips into two contacts at the bottom that manage the spark and receive the flame signal. Ensuring a good connection here is crucial. If necessary, remove the control board and clean the contacts at its base. Reinsert the board and ensure it establishes a solid connection.
Problem: Operating on Electric
For those unsure of how to run the Truma Ultrastore using electric, it’s quite straightforward.
Steps to Operate on Electric:
- Find the switch near the heater on the caravan’s outside.
- Set the required temperature.
- Turn the switch on.
- Ensure you have a mains supply. For some models, like the 500/5, the gas operation is automatic. Therefore, the switch is dedicated solely for electric operation.
In conclusion, while the Truma Ultrastore is generally a reliable water heater, it’s always good to be prepared with troubleshooting knowledge. As with any appliance issue, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any steps, it’s best to consult with a professional or expert for guidance.