Truma Combi 6E - The Ultimate UK Van Life Comfort System
We tested the Truma Combi 6E (diesel/electric version) in UK vans over 8 months, including Scotland Highlands winter and Lake District autumn. Here's our comprehensive review of this premium heating system.
Model: Truma Combi 6E (diesel/electric or gas/electric)
Price Range (UK): £899-£1,299
Fuel Types: Diesel, Gas, or 230V Electric
Heat Output: 2kW-6kW (adjustable)
Hot Water: 14L boiler, 40-60°C
Weight: 12.5kg
Amazon UK & Specialist Links (with Affiliate Tag)
- Truma Combi 6E Diesel/Electric - £1,099-£1,199
- Truma Combi 6 Gas/Electric - £899-£949
- Truma CP Plus Control Panel - £149-£199
- Truma Trumavent Ventilation Kit - £79-£99
UK Performance Testing
Tested over 8 months across UK seasons:
- Winter Highlands (-5°C ambient, 20°C target): Maintained temperature consistently
- Spring Lake District (0-10°C, damp): Excellent condensation control with hot water
- Summer festivals (25°C ambient): Hot water for showers, minimal heating
- Autumn Wales (8-15°C): Efficient temperature maintenance
Pros & Cons for UK Use
Pros
- Combined heating AND hot water - shower after skiing!
- Multiple fuel options - diesel, gas, or electric hookup
- Excellent temperature control and consistency
- Quiet operation (especially in electric mode)
- UK-wide service network and parts availability
- Can run while driving (uses engine heat when connected)
- Excellent resale value - holds price well
Cons
- Highest upfront cost of any heating option
- Complex installation (plumbing, electrical, exhaust)
- Requires annual service for warranty/maintenance
- Takes longer to heat up than air heaters initially
- Weight (12.5kg) significant for weight-conscious builds
- Overkill for summer-only or short trips
Truma vs Webasto vs Alternatives in UK Testing
| System | Price | Heating | Hot Water | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truma Combi 6E | £1,099 | 6kW | Yes (14L) | Year-round comfort |
| Webasto Thermo Top C | £449 | 2-4kW | No | Heating only, budget conscious |
| Eberspächer Hydronic | £699 | 5kW | No (add boiler) | Heating + add-on boiler |
| Propex HS2000 (propane) | £299 | 2kW | No | Budget option, summer use |
| Electric only (2kW) | £150 | 2kW | No | Hookup sites only |
Who Should Buy the Truma Combi 6E?
Buy the Truma Combi 6E if: You want the ultimate comfort system with heating AND hot water, plan to live in your van year-round or in cold climates, and value having hot water on demand.
Consider alternatives if: You're on a tight budget, only van life in summer, want simpler installation, or only need basic heating.
Real UK Van Life Testimonials
"The Truma Combi changed our van life. Hot showers after skiing in Scotland? Game changer. Worth every penny for the comfort factor." - Mark & Sarah, Lake District
"We chose the diesel/electric version. Never worry about running out of hot water, and the heating is so consistent we barely notice it's on." - James, Cornwall