Our Truma Combi Heater Review

For those who love camping year-round, a reliable heater can make all the difference. The Truma Combi is a popular choice among camper enthusiasts, combining heating and hot water capabilities in a single unit.

In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Truma Combi Eco and Eco Plus answering common questions on performance and reliability.

The Truma Combi Heater

The Truma Combi is an all-in-one heater and water heater. It runs on propane, making it a good choice for off-grid camping. The Eco Plus version adds flexibility with the ability to run on 110V shore power or a mix of propane and electric power. This feature is particularly beneficial when you’re hooked up to campsite power, helping to conserve propane when you don’t need to be entirely off-grid.

The unit is compact enough to fit neatly into the utility area of our Flagship camper model, behind the kitchen face. It connects to two onboard 11 lb propane tanks, providing plenty of fuel for both heating and hot water on long trips.

Heating Performance and Efficiency

We love the Truma Combi because of its powerful heating capabilities. In fact, it’s typically spec’d for larger RVs and campers, so it performs exceptionally well in a truck camper. There are four heater ducts strategically placed to maximize comfort:

  1. Three ducts blow warm air into the camper’s living quarters, ensuring even heat distribution.
  2. One duct blows air over the fresh water tank and under the camper floor, preventing water lines and tanks from freezing in winter conditions.

The efficient design of the Truma Combi means you can set the thermostat 5-10 degrees cooler than you would at home and still feel perfectly comfortable in your truck camper. This efficiency equates to serious propane savings over time, especially during extended winter camping trips.

Our Supertramp team has spent nights in the Flagship with temperatures outside dipping to 0 degrees, and felt comfortably warm, wearing only a t-shirt and shorts under a light blanket. This heater gets the job done.

Eco vs. Eco Plus: Which is Right for You?

The Truma Combi is available in two versions:

  • Eco: Powered solely by propane, making it perfect for campers who are primarily off-grid and want to rely on a consistent fuel source.
  • Eco Plus: Runs on propane, 110V shore power, or a mix of both.

It’s worth noting that the Eco Plus electric heat option cannot run off the camper’s onboard batteries. The power demand is high enough that it would deplete the battery in just a couple of hours. We get this question frequently, so it’s good to keep in mind if you’re considering the Eco Plus for extended off-grid use.

Hot Water on Demand

Aside from providing heat in the camper, the Truma Combi also delivers hot water. The system heats water over a span of 15-30 minutes depending on the fuel setting. Once the reserve tank is up to its peak temperature it holds heat extremely well. The Truma Combi heats water quickly enough that multiple people can shower back-to-back, which is especially valuable for families or groups sharing a camper.

Key Features of the Truma Combi Heater

  1. Compact Design: The Truma Combi fits conveniently in the camper's utility area, keeping it out of sight while optimizing space for other amenities.
  2. Multiple Power Options: With the Eco Plus, you have the option to switch between propane and shore power or combine them, giving you flexibility based on your location and available resources.
  3. Efficient Ducted Heating: The four heater ducts ensure that heat is evenly distributed throughout the camper, including an area for the fresh water tank to prevent freezing.
  4. Temperature Control: The Truma Combi allows for precise thermostat adjustments, keeping you warm without overusing propane or electricity.
  5. Quiet Operation: One of the standout features of the Truma Combi is its quiet operation. You can sleep soundly without being disturbed by loud fan noises, making it a great choice for light sleepers.

Why We Use the Truma Combi in Our Flagship Models

At Supertramp, our goal is to build campers that enhance the camping experience and can handle all types of conditions, including the cold. We focus on reliability and ease of use, and we try to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and quality when choosing each and every component.

Even on the coldest nights, you can relax in your camper knowing that your heat will keep you cozy and comfortable. With the natural insulative properties of our composite shell and insulated fabric, the built-in ducting will protect water lines and the fresh water tank, all together this make the Flagship an ideal solution for year-round camping.

Final Thoughts

The Truma Combi Heater is a top choice for campers who need reliable heating and hot water in a compact, versatile package. Its ability to run on both propane and shore power (in the Eco Plus version) makes it a standout for flexibility, and the even heat distribution through its ducted system keeps every part of the camper warm, including the water systems.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded heating solution that can handle various climates, the Truma Combi is hard to beat. Whether you're camping in sub-zero temperatures or simply looking to stay comfortable on a slightly chilly evening, the Truma Combi is up to the task!

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