For those that do not know me please let me explain who I am in greater detail. I'm a fully qualified Mechanical Services Design Engineer, I studied Building Services at University for 6 years and have been a Member of the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Engineering Council for many years. On top of that, I have worked in this industry both on a consultancy level and as Director of mechanical services contractors for over 30 years. I fully understand the position that this channel holds when explaining the installation of services like LPG and electrics where they both have the potential to cause fatalities and that you the viewer may be following these instructions. Therefore, I have gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure that the information contained in this video is current and correct and safe to publish to all who wish to view it. The LPG information is taken directly from the European Standard EN 1949:2011+A1 updated Feb 2013 and is the most current standard for "Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles" The system has also been installed strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. The video has been previewed by Truma before releasing to the public. I sincerely hope that gives you a level of comfort that the information contained is correct within Europe to the very best of my ability at the time of publishing. If you are living in another country outside of the EU then you will need to check your own local standards and I would always advise having these systems tested by a certified professional.
If anyone has a list of the standards related to van conversions (in addition to the one mentioned by Greg above) I'd be grateful. If it's anything like canal boats there will be a laundry list of them!
Like most standards and codes of practice they are not free, the current price from the bsi for this regulation is £198 and for that, you get a download PDF document of 37 pages. I know because I got a copy to make sure this video was up to the correct standards. That's £5.35 per page of an electronic document. That is criminal when these are for health and safety. However, I am currently working on a video to cover the LPG regulations and how they apply to van conversions as I have not seen anyone do that yet and this is a complete grey area that is neither enforced or policed by any governing body. Yet we are all driving around with LPG cylinders and gas appliances in your vans, many totally unaware of the dangers.
I wish this video was mandatory training for RV installation and repair techs across the US! It is the most thorough and clear discussion of system installation I have ever seen.
I always knew you are more qualified than the average DIY by far but not your actual credentials which are truly impressive. Teaching another however requires a level of empathy, patience and the ability to look at a problem from the 3rd person perspective something few can master. Thanks for what you do Greg.
I was beginning to question your DIY credentials during this video until I heard you say the one phrase that confirmed your skills. *finishes screwing something down* "That's not going anywhere". Seriously though, great videos.
Discovering your videos recently has made my understanding of each elements of the build much clearer. This is incredibly valuable content, thank you for sharing on your channel
Just came across your Vlog and found it extremely informative. We only took delivery of our Constellation 3XL in July of 2023 so we're completely new to "van life"! However, both my wife and I like to know how things work and this video provides just what we want. Keep up the good work. Subscribed to your channel and will be watching the new build with interest. Sid and Nicola, Rugby
Hi Greg, Excellent video. Don't take down the "3 things video we never knew about you" It gives us fans some good insight into you. You are a Rock Star! We really enjoyed it. Thanks again for everything you do for us.
Thank you Don. I know from the guys I follow as you get to know them more, it's good to hear a bit of background info. Gives me a bit of practice for doing the vlogs on our trip too.
Hi Greg! I have spent the better part of 2 weeks watching ALL of your sprinter camper van series! Thank you! I plan of using many of your ideas and designs when I start my conversion early next year! You have answered many of my questions and given me so many ideas. I'll send pics when i start work on mine. You're amazing! Thank you again Barbara
Its great that these videos have inspired you, that really makes all the effort worthwhile. I will look forward to seeing your photos and wish you all the best with your future plans.
Hey Greg another Thorough & Meticulous Job installing the Truma Combi 4E & Plumbing! You have a very Calm & pleasing Disposition & should be a Teacher! Thank you so much for your kind generosity in Sharing in Detail all your Videos. God Bless! Grace in Toronto
Yo Cockney Greg, superb video , just traded in our T6 for a VW Grafter Crafter , so completing planning for full build up here in Scotchland and THANK YOU for your concise , accurate well planned delivery of fitting the heart of any van. RESPECT & THANK YOU . Brian & Anna from Scotchland. 🥰🤩😁😇
Another great video. I understand that I will need my gas system testing thoroughly but with your videos I have loads more confidence to get most of the work done myself. You need your own DIY TV show, mate. We’d all be building our own houses.
What an excellent system Truma is and looks quite straight forward to install. This is another excellent step by step tutorial. Definitely one to consider when installing our bathroom in our next project. Cheers!
Brilliant video Greg. An excellant series. I'm new to this camper van stuff but what I've learned from this series is nothing short of incredible. Well done you.
ive watched lots of your videos I watched this one and i will never install such a device in my van but i still enjoyed watching your video it made me feel more relaxed then i usually am just listening to your install. Then i thought this guy could make awesome AMSR videos for who ever needs them.
I had to google AMSR but now I know what you mean, yes, there have been others that say I have a calming voice? Thank you for watching, nice comment too
Greg, you are awesome mate, you break your vids down so most people with basic common sense can follow :-) Liked your vid on the 3 things we never knew about you :-)
Thank you, Vincent, that's funny you mention that video, because in my stats that video has caused the most amount of unsubscribers and today I was going to take it down.
no way mate, the videos you are posting break everything down to their component parts and I will be using them as a reference for when I do my own van. For example, I was going to install a separate air heater and gas water heater but you have now convinced me to go with a single unit. Keep them coming. I have also been watching another blogger that has some great vids as well, his name is Jaz Morton and he is from OZ.
I meant the 3x3 video has caused the most unsubscribers lol... Jaz is fantastic, I follow him too, an electrical engineer and has done a fantastic van build.
Hi great videos really enjoyed watching them I used to be an LPG engineer you should always put some sort of gas compound or gas tape around your threaded joints also don’t allow your hot and cold pipes to touch as it can cause legionnaires disease keep up the good work buddy. 😃
The joints in this video were all compression joints with olives and it's not good practice to put anything on olives, definitely not PFTE tape. I have used the correct gas PTFE tape on the threaded connections around the cylinder. The current LPG regulations state jointing compounds are not to be used. The boiler will heat and store water above 55deg C so even if the cold feed gets a little warm that's enough to kill any bugs. The blue pipe in the video does not feed anything other than the boiler at that point. If it was feeding a tap for drinking etc i would have insulated it, but nothing to stop the external tank getting hot in the summer too.
Hi I agree you should never put PTFE tape on any olive that’s why I said on the threaded part. when you do your plumbing apprenticeship they spend a lot of time teaching you not to put the tape on your olive and only on the threaded part of the joint as the olives can sometimes let-by, and the PTFE tape is there to stop it from coming through the threaded part. And as for compounds it’s probably changed since I was a gas engineer as this was 20 + years ago. 😉
Hi Clan, you should never use PTFE tape on any part of a compression connection. It should only be used for actual threaded connections. If you put PTFE on the thread of a compression nut you are preventing the nut from tightening up fully so you are actually making the situation worse. If you have a poor olive or seat you could smear a little gas joint compound around the olive. I appreciate that not every fitting comes in mint condition. Special gas PTFE tape must be used on threaded connections like your flexible bottle hoses etc Whoever taught you I’m afraid gave you poor advice. That is a real shame. Was it at college or working with old pipe fitters
Hi Greg. You've got this video making down now eh? Another flawless, flawless I say, video. Fabulous attention to detail, and seemingly consummately easily. Regards Mark in the UK
I'm in my comfort zone with this one Mark, this is what I do and who I am. Mechanical Services has been my life for 34years and I know what I'm talking about which is why it comes across so naturally. When I first saw an exploded view of this boiler on the Truma stand at the NEC I knew exactly how it worked and could describe it in great detail as I have done in the previous Truma Video. I now want to share that knowledge to help others make informed decisions as there is a lot of poor information on the internet :D
Can't believe that i've binge watched the whole playlist since yesterday evening. Even more so since campervans don't interest me much :)) It's your caution, diligence and precision that make your videos fun to watch i guess ;) I wonder what would happen if you started a project on something i'd love to have myself. Keep up the good wörk!
Another reason why i enjoy watching your vids is to learn "Colloquial Workshop English" by listing. No book can ever teach you that. My interests are green/sustainable building/architecture, solar, wind, etc. Not on an industrial but on a small DIY homebuilder scale, and be it just a cabin or holiday cottage. You told somewhere you were a HVAC engineer so anything about natural cooling would blow my mind. There's a lot about ecologic heating out there but very little about green cooling. Have you ever heard about heating with ice? I find it extremely hard to wrap my head around this physical phenomenon. It's suited for cooling too of course. ruclips.net/video/Z7qPCeRhbPc/видео.html ruclips.net/video/A4tuJvYFKw4/видео.html I know that's much but you asked for it and i don't expect you to ever do something like that at all ;)
Hello, Sorry for the delay in replying but as your message contained links it goes into my review folder, to try and cut down those that like to spam popular channels. The first video showing the ice storage tank is very old technology, I actually designed one of the first of these systems to be installed in this country but on a larger commercial scale at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford, Essex. It was used to cool the operating theatres, we installed a massive ice storage tank which would be frozen up overnight on the cheap rate electricity, then the cool water was run off during the day to serve all the HVAC plant in the hospital. If you are interested in free cooling then google "adiabatic cooling" This is where you use the evaporation of water to cool air as it passes over a wet filter, you can get 4-5°C of cooling and for very little energy use.
Another fabulous informative video Greg. When I build my van it will have to have a plaque referencing all of your advice and generously shared knowledge. You a true van life legend. Look forward to meeting you one day.
And just to add I installed a Truma 6 diesel one I my Renault master ... really great unit and have toured Norway Finland and Sweden for two months... excellent !
That's really great to hear, I'm guessing with the 6kw unit you had loads of heat and your motorhome was really nice and warm. Did you also have a shower in the camper?
Very cool. My build is still only in my head but one thing that's already established in there is that there will be no LPG. Diesel heat, tapped straight into the van's diesel tank so no worries about more than one fuel. Cooking may in fact also be a diesel burning range, but more likely lithium batteries and electric induction cooking. Of course, a 6000 watt heater like the 6D is overkill, but anything to get away from gas. I may just go with Eberspächer products though (the 6D has Eberspächer furnace components in it to burn the diesel, for that matter.) But using an Eberspächer Hydronic unit to heat glycol means you need to add heat exchangers and do some DIY style work to cobble it all together.
Greg Virgoe Hi sorry for a response way to late!..I’m not really into all this social media stuff. Yes, I do have a shower wet room fitted with a composting toilet with one blower from the heater in there...great for drying stuff with the door shut. I guess my mistake with inserts was over flexible vs rigid copper piping! Flexible takes an insert! Thanks for the videos...very informative.
Hi S Otobfree. Can you give me some info about your Truma D6 Diesel Heater please? Is it noisy, does it make the annoying constant clicking noise that a lot of people complain about with the Webasto & Eberspacher diesel heaters? What is the electrical draw? Thanks Tracey
It really was very simple to install, the JG water fittings are dead easy to put together. Just need to be aware of the LPG system and the safety aspects of having gas in your vehicle.
As with all your videos Greg, superb quality, information and presentation. I can’t believe one of the highlights of my week is looking forward to your next video - keep up the excellent work. You deserve a huge, huge following.
Absolutely Brilliant, you explain it so perfectly. Nothing on RUclips or anywhere else comes close to this information and It’s Free 😄😄 thank you for sharing Greg, 👍👍👍
That's what I love about the internet, you can find information on anything and everything. I'm in awe of your cabinet making skills, you do some amazing things with oak, top class.
Having watched some of your other videos and seeing how carefully you have ensured a vapour barrier everywhere I looked for a video where you had installed a gas appliance to check that you had put a gas drop in. I should never have doubted you Greg. Although I do worry some people might skim watch and miss it.
Gas seems to be the one subject that nobody knows about and everyone skims. I'm working on a detailed video covering the current regulations regarding LPG in your van. It will open a few eyes I have no doubt :D
HI Greg! I watch your videos in 2023, great job, wow! I have one question - how many hot air outlets do you have? do you have it shown in a video somewhere?
Really great video, thanks for sharing this information - I've just bought one of these boilers for me van and I'm genuinely terrified of fitting it. Definitely have overwhelm at the moment but this vid makes it much clearer 👍🏻
Would love an update/review of the trauma 4e after you have lived with it for a while now..... why you chose that model over the cheaper Truma Ultrastore and other brands and how easy it is to use on a day to day basis for showering etc. Love the video and the channel mate - what would us van addicts do without ya!
Greg this has to be my favourite video so far.. Think I've mentioned I have the same boiler and considered it a no go area when renovating my camper a few years ago.. I feel like its not something I couldn't take on myself after watching yr video.. PS- Id still get an expert to check it afterwards tho ;))
Christmas Day watching this vid 😊 (and not for the first time either!). A Boiler Maker at work, love the tidy installation ✔️. Always learning and I've just seen that you use pipe liners in the hot water pipe. I'd forgotten to put any of these in any of my joints that i've done so far 😩 and can completely see their purpose. A quick search showed that Magnum MH sell these, ordered 😊, thanks again buddy. Cheers!
Sunnycampers I had also installed some of mine before I checked with JG but luckily I could get access to them and the push fit come apart easily. Can you get to all your joints ok to retro fit them?
Great video Greg, im about to start my second van build, I have learnt a lot from my first build and this new one will be something I can live in if I want to, I will be checking out all your vids and will probably be asking you a few questions, my van build is on my RUclips channel if you fancy a look at my first van. Watching this vid has convinced me to fit a Truma Combi.
Hi Greg, fantastic informative video from you as they always are. May I request that you attenuate the music slightly as I have to have the volume right up to hear what you are saying, so when watching the video late at night or early in the morning the music wakes my wife when it comes on!
Hello, yes I'm already conscious of the audio levels, currently all clips are adjusted to achieve similar audio levels. Some speech needs to be increased by as much as 200% if I'm not facing the camera or got my lavelier mic fitted. All tool noises are reduced to about 30% and music currently to 60% as I too do most of my editing in the small hours when others are asleep. A set of headphones might be the answer? Thanks for your feedback, much appreciated.
@@GregVirgoe - yes I'll have to resort to that. If its any consolation, there are other channels I watch which seem to blast the music and then whisper into the microphone. Or maybe it's me... Maybe I'm just going deaf! Haha. Thank you for taking the time to respond. Please keep up the amazing, technical content. I think it keeps your videos nicely in a rare and much sought after niche. :thumbup
I love your T shirt ... "IT WILL ONLY TAKE HALF AN HOUR" ... L.O.L I have been a D.I.Y person for years, and it can take me that long to find the correct screw driver some times :) Jokes apart ... Thank you for these videos, really useful.
Very very informative video. Just one more thing to add. In the pc board you skipped past the link wire beside the thermostat connections. They are for a window switch that must be fitted if the boiler flue is directly underneath an opening window or within 300 mm of the window. It’s to stop the stuff that kills you entering when it’s open. All so regulations state you must have 10mm clearance between gas pipes and any other services at cross over points. And it’s best to use copper olives in your gas fittings as brass can cut into the pipe over time creating a leak. And it’s all so better to use sweeping bends instead of sharp 90 degree bends as a sharp bend increases pressure drop more when doing your pipe sizing calculations. And you will need a 2000 mm2 vent in your appliance compartment to allow room air to circulate through the boiler. Not combustion air but room temperature air. And minimum flue lentght for a horizontal exit is 600mm. There’s more than one thing I added there I do apologise but mate that is a very very good installation and very informative.
Greg, we love your van build videos! You are absolutely THE best van build series on YT! So much detail and information... Much appreciated! We're just getting started on our Truma 4E install.... Wanted to ask you a quick question on the 12v wiring for the Truma 4E and the Truma CP Plus. Did you wire these up for 12v on separate cable runs, or did you just splice the CP Plus 12v feed into the main 12v feed to the Truma 4E? Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge & experience!
This is perfect timing! We've been in the van a few months now and are starting to think about our options for winter. We plan on heading to Spain/Portugal but figure we'll still get a bit cold so have been researching our options. Thanks for always putting out such helpful content.
Hi Greg, first of all can I congratulate you on the best self build series on RUclips. Clear and comprehensive. I have recently bought a 14 plate VW Crafter, which is, to all intents and purposes a Sprinter. I am hoping to use your videos as a template! I am in the very early stages, about to thread the wiring, I have a couple of questions! 1. In your wiring video, you thread a cable vertically through the corrugated trunking. The equivalent route in my van (which externally looks the same as yours) has an obstruction part way down and only allows the passage of string or cable! Did you have to open this route up at all? 2. I am keen to use the Truma Combi Boiler, but will have to purchase it later. Is the control cable a standard Cat5 network cable? I have plenty of that and could route it now in preparation! Hope these aren't too trivial a question! Cheers Dan
Great video Sir, and also a pleasure to watch. I, myself having worked in the building services game for 30yrs or so ,as a contractor, always value good workmanship, with simple explanations followed by a clear execution, and you have nailed both as always. On a practical note, would you lay the flue to a slight fall to atmosphere, so to expel any condensate formation that may build up in the flue pipe/s, this seems good practice on a domestic sized job. PS you are fueling my desire to `camper van' as I work in all areas of the country, IR35 implementations have some what pulled a shadow over the hotels bill affordability - so this camper van life has a cheap hotel stamp written all over it!!!!!
Really liking your van posts Greg, have plans to do my own build in the near future. Your videos have given me some great ideas and inspiration. Keep up the good work. :-)
Greg, the "aeration valve" that connects the "ventilation hose" (quoting Truma's installation manual) and the hot water discharge hose to the top of the device, do you know what purpose specifically it has? I believe the purpose of the valve is to vent the boiler with air when it is filling up and/or draining (not sure which, or both??), which in turn is to make the filling and/or draining easier (but the valve is not strictly a necessity for said function, only making the operation easier/quicker, and by extension, even if this valve were to not let any air through, opening the FrostControl valve would eventually deplete all the water in the system?). I believe also that the valve acts as a pressure relief valve for the hot water in the boiler (hot water expands when heated up). The FrostControl unit further down on the floor is also a pressure relief valve, but only for the cold water side? I'm asking because my valve is dripping drops of water through the ventilation hose to the outside of the vehicle, even when the Truma device is not running. I suspect the valve isn't holding tight when it is supposed to (maybe because of debris and/or some form of scale building up or whatever). It is seemingly leaking water only until the level of the water in the main fresh water tank has become leveled with the boiler 🤔 But, I am very very unsure about all these things 🤯
Yes indeed, with the digital controls and the number of ducted outlets around the van it's going to be so controllable and up to temperature in minutes. Miles better than the room thermostat in our old house lol
Hi Greg. Thanks so much for the video on the Truma 4e combi. I just wondered if you let me know what size and make of LPG tank you would recommend for this type of heater. Thank you! Jo
Truma now has the 6D which is the only model for diesel fuel and electric which is what I would like to have instead of going with the Espar diesel heater and something else for the hot water where most folks are using gas. Unfortunately, the Truma 6D is for a large RV style motor home so I'll wait until someone comes out with a small diesel interior/hot water heater. I have the small 07 Sprinter 144" so the 6D would be overkill for that.
I'm pleased you enjoyed it. I'm working on a detailed video covering the current gas regulations for vans as nobody has done one that I know of and nobody knows what they or that they even exist. Frightening really as we are all driving around with ticking time bombs in our vans :o
Excellent clear and concise video Greg. I am considering swapping out a Whale unit for a Truma but ideally would prefer an underfloor placement for a Diesel -Electric unit that does both Water and Space heating. My understanding is that all Truma units are designed for interior fit out only but I'm only starting my search. Greg, are you able to confirm Truma units are all interior only? I've looked on the Truma FAQ's but cant find confirmation. Thanks for your great channel. 👏
There is a black control cable that come with the boiler with plugs on the end like a telephone cable. The controller also needs a 12v DC power supply protected by a 1Amp fuse.
Hi Greg, I am 'nearly' ready to fit the Truma boiler. The Truma literature suggest not having any flooring under the boiler, your video shows you have the Altro flooring and it looks as if its under the Truma. I'm assuming that it's ok (or I'm sure you wouldn't have done it), and it would be much easier for me.
Excellent video as always Greg. One thought. I've heard you say that most of your travels should be in warm climates, with this in mind, did you ever give any thought to installing the Truma air con system? If you had considered it and rejected the idea what put you off? Space, power requirements, cost or a combination? Thanks again, best van conversation resource on the Internet.
Yes, I did look at them and consider it, the cost was not an issue as it's very similar in price to the combi boiler. The heat pump version runs off 230v supply and is rated at 2400watts so in practical terms you could only run it while on mains hook-up. Plus you still need to install a hot water solution. It also would have taken up valuable roof space which I had earmarked for solar panels. We wanted to be able to go off the grid for long periods and it didn't really fit that model.
Hi Greg, I admire how you have followed the Build Standards like a good German Officer. 'Ridgid fittings must only be used on the gas installation in a moving vehicle'. Doesn't that smell just a little bit odorous to you??? You may get your gas certification but, let's face it, I hope you install a good detector/alarm and leaked gas outlet.
Hi Norman, that is not dictated by Truma, it's a requirement of the current EU regulation for the installation of LPG into recreational vehicles. The heater is secured to the vehicle with 4 hefty screws and the copper tube well secured also. I will be fitting gas detection and have fitted drop out vents too, I have also pressure tested the gas to 150mbar, 5x working pressure, also in accordance with the regs. I will be doing a video on the regs for everyone as there doesn't seem to be anyone following these rules.
Hi Greg, First of all great job with your videos. I might convert a van next year all being well but I watched already all your videos! I loved the details of the explanations! Really great! I am Italian and could nearly forgive you for the pineapple pizza...lol One question: how do you find the truma combi for showering? Are 10l of hot water enough or you often end up with a cold shower? Apologies if you already had a similar question! All the best and safe travelling!
Is there a reason you chose this appliance over a continuous hot water supply? Great video as always, thanks for making them so detailed and informative.
Hi Greg. Another fantastic video thank you! Very clear & precise, I really appreciate the time you take to make these videos in order to help other people! I have a few questions Greg; How do you find the Truma for heating & hot water (independently of each other & used together) now that you've been using it for some time? Do you find that the manual times for heat up by Truma are accurate? How long does it take for just the heating to heat up? How long for just hot water? How long for both together? If I had a shower & then my partner wanted a shower straightaway afterwards, how long would he have to wait for recovery time? Hope you can answer these questions for me as want to go ahead & purchase a Truma but waiting on your reply until I do, just to be on safe side! Thanks again Greg. Stay Safe in these strange times!! Tracey.
Hello Tracey, it will fast become the best thing in your van, we would not be without ours. We use the heating on its eco setting (low fan speed) as that is all you need and heats the van up in just a few minutes. Maintains set temperature perfectly just coming on and off. As a by-product of the heating, you get a tank of hot water anyway so no need to put that on separately really. we have found if we turn the temp down to 15-16 overnight it keeps the chill off the van and condensation down plus in the morning you have a full tank of hot water for showers or washing. We can both shower on one tank of hot water as you are mixing it 50-50 with cold water so you actually get 20 litres of warm water. Another really cool feature is the iNet box which allows you to control the truma remotely from the van either by Bluetooth if in range or by GSM SMS text from anywhere you have a phone signal. often when we are out if it's getting chilly we text the van to put the heating on so when we get back to it it's lovely and warm and a tank of hot water. We never need to put the boiler on just to heat hot water we use it when it's available, sometimes if you just want to do some dishes its more economical on gas to boil a kettle. However, if you wanted a shower it heats up fully in 20mins no problem enough of two showers. We could not be happier with ours and guarantee you will be too, it has made our van a cosy home :D
@@GregVirgoe Thank you so much for your in-depth reply Greg, it is so helpful! Good point about boiling the kettle for washing dishes only!! Would you say that the Truma system is economical on LPG? Can you give me some idea of how long a gas bottle lasts you, (cant remember if it's an 11kg bottle you have?) & what I can expect from that size bottle in terms of usage please Greg? If you can give any info on electrical draw too that would be great? Do you find that the Truma is noisy at all? Once again, thanks Greg, appreciate the help & informative videos!! Tracey
Hi Greg I am about to install this same boiler and this video has been extrememly helpful and i thank you for that. You mention that a test point and a pressure relief valve both need to be fitted for the lpg. Could you tell me the best place to fit these,can it be anywhere that is convenient or somewhere more specific. You mentioned that you had a run straight from the tank to the boiler with no breaks so wondered where you fitted them. Thanks in advance,your videos are superb.
The pressure relief is a part that comes with the boiler and is fitted to the hot water outlet. There is also a drop out valve fitting to the floor both in this video. The testing of the gas I did in this video and starts about 2 1/2 minutes into the video ruclips.net/video/8nmFdSU06GM/видео.htmlsi=EIFctEsdtTdZd-XR
Thank you for replying greg. So no need for me to worry about a pressure relief valve. So can i fit a test point anywhere thats convenient on the gas pipe. Just watched your link to the test video but couldnt see it.Thanks again.
Hi Greg love your videos We have a problem with our truma combi 4e boiler it’s blowing the 10A fuse. The fuse is located behind the boiler under the 12v cables round fuse white color. Tried to replace it but as soon as I put new one it blows it.. do you know what it could be? Many thanks 🙏
Im sorry to hear that I don’t know what it could be. Please Contact Truma Ltd Customer Services Phone: 01283 587960 E-mail: technical@trumauk.com Service times Monday - Friday 8.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Weekends and bank holidays: Closed
Thanks for the guidance in this video, Greg. Top advice as always. I just had a quick question. You mention that you connect your 230v for the Truma via a fused spur for easy isolation. Can you then also fuse the fused spur to carry on and connect to a plug socket? Sorry if that doesn't make sense, but essentially you have one cable connecting to the fused spur from your consumer unit and the truma connected also. Could you then connect another cable (so 9 wires total in the fused spur) that runs to a separate plug socket? Appreciate your insight if you know the answer! Thanks
is there a re set button on this boiler,,mine was working fine and now will blow but no hot water,,only 2 years old,,thank you..or any other suggestions please..
david Walton on your remote controller go to the little spanner symbol and push button to enter menu. Go to the last option which is RESET and push button. Make sure you have gas available as the boiler will go to lockout if you run out of gas
Hi greg love your videos very useful!!! I have couple of questions: i guess for truma combi you used 1.5 mm cable for 12v, so my question is why for the fridge you using 6 mm cable when is consuming less then the boiler. Please if you could answer as we just started our conversion and we are following your video to do it! Anyway thanks a lot for sharing your conversion and your work is just great!!!!
Great video. Do you know what the draw is on the 12v system, i expectbquite high on start? Just wiring and trying to decide on a 3mm or 6mm 12v cable. Thankyou
Hi Greg, did the thermostat cable come with the unit or did you buy it as an extra. I only ask as mine has now been delivered with the thermostat but no cable.
Do you mean the small temperature sensor. About size of 20p in diameter? Mine came with a cable very similar to bell wire with small spade connectors on. I had to extend mine a little and I know you can run up to 10m of cable. Use a 0.75 or 1mm flat pair like speaker or doorbell cable. Let me know if something else? Cheers
I worry about the length of the videos, but with so much information to get across its difficult to get them shorter. I don't want to put people off watching it because it's too long. What do you think?
@@GregVirgoe I think if your aim for your videos was purely entertainment you would probably want to aim at shorter videos. However what you are producing is a detailed reference as well as entertainment, if you remove content to make the videos snappy, you remove the useful side that they currently have. For anyone seriously considering converting a van or in the process of doing so, longer videos are essential, and particularly your videos are essential.
Hi Greg Was there any reason why you didn’t put your combi boiler in the garage Sorry to keep asking questions, just I want to get my camper right and you are the only one with extensive information
ian fairbairn that’s a good question and for a number of reasons. I’ll try and list them in priority with main one first. 1. To keep the return air path back to the boiler as short as possible and within the living area. This cannot be ducted. 2. To keep the supply duct length as short as possible to reduce duct resistance and maximise airflow and minimise heat loss in the ducts. 3. So I didn’t lose valuable storage space in the garage where later I would like to carry a bike. The other factors like Pipework and cables don’t really matter as they can be routed quite easily. So it really boiled down to the best location for airflow and vent outlets. We only ever need it on its eco setting and the van is so warm and quiet too.
Greg Virgoe Thanks for the reply my boiler has just been delivered so be prepared for some more questions lol, I hope you got your inverter sorted, take care and stay safe
ian fairbairn no problem, happy to help if the info is not in my videos. Yes inverter is all sorted now thank you. Wish I could say the same about the weather. We currently have snow ⛄️😁
Have you checked how hot the gas pipe gets when it’s in use? With mine, I’ve a small leak (I think from the hot water elbow) and with it set to hot on electric 2 the gas pipe gets bloody hot! On my van a few inches after where the gas pipe goes in it has an outer plastic sheath on the gas pipe, but noted yours didn’t and is close to the van lino. Just a heads up as to quite how hot it gets!
Hi Greg. Great series mate! Re Trauma combi. Will it run without connecting the room sensor. The kit I bought didn't have it in it and its quite expensive to buy. Thanks
No you need the room sensor that controls the temp of the heating. Here is one I found on eBay. www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TRUMA-ROOM-TEMPERATURE-SENSOR-COMBI-HEATING-SYTEMS-FOR-CARAVAN-AND-MOTORHOME-/143788793989?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m2548.l6249&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0
Hi Greg ~ With great joy and interest, I have followed every episode of the van build so far. It is such fun to witness your professionalism and concise descriptions. Truly a blessing. Thank you.,...... and OH!!! ...... what a VOICE !!!! U-la-la!! I have three questions. 1) was there a reason you chose to not put hydronic radiant heat in the floor? 2) did you heat the under carriage water tanks with hydronic's 3) the Diesel Sprinter Vans in the USA have had lots of issues with the BlueTec emissions systems. Have you had that concern with yours?. with gratitude, ~ Tallie ps: say "hi" to Lou for me!!
Hey Greg loved watching your van build series I have a question about the truma controller one black wire goes to the boiler but where does the little red wire go is it for power to go to as I’m confused Many thanks Kim
There is a plug in flat control cable that has a plug on the end. The other cable is a 12v dc power supply. It needs a positive and negative protected by a 1Amp blade fuse
Thank you for your cracking videos ❤ It makes me feel like I can achieve it. I have a question that I've just thought about and I'd appreciate your advice on, do I need to connect my shurflo water pump in line to the boiler? If that makes sense 😅
Hello Greg. Great videos. I have just installed a new combi 4 E boiler in my s520 Hymer. The old c3402 gave up and cannot get parts. What is required to get the CP Control panel working ? Does one need the I Net box ? Or does it work independently ? I cannot get the control panel to start up ! Also there is no where that states where to Small 2 red/red-Black wires are installed at the rear of the control panel. My electrician as installed them to a 12V power supply but still no Joy. It will not switch on. So help would be greatly appreciated.
You need 12v power to both the cp panel and the boiler. Plus the interconnection data cable installed. The boiler needs a 10amp supply and the controller needs a 1Amp supply. Once you have those on you should see it working ok 👍🏼
Greg, Your videos are amazing, very clear, concise and thorough. Much appreciated. I haven't found anyone asking if there is benefit to adding foam pipe insulation around the hot water lines. Is it just too short a run to matter?
This raises a mystery for me which I have on my A Class: there's only one drain down valve, and it's connected to the cold water pipe which runs into the boiler at the bottom. The hot-line exits the boiler at the top.. so how can the hot-pipes drain seeing as the hot pipe's water has to flow up from the floor level to get back inside the boiler in order to then drain back to the cold line where there is a drain tap? This is especially confusing considering there must be a none return valve at the boiler cold feed. Maybe the lack of a hot drain is the reason why I'm left with about 8 litres of water in my system after drain down.
Yes, if your hot water pipe comes off the boiler and drops to the floor there may always be some water left in that pipe. You could fit another drain valve at the hot low point.
For those that do not know me please let me explain who I am in greater detail. I'm a fully qualified Mechanical Services Design Engineer, I studied Building Services at University for 6 years and have been a Member of the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Engineering Council for many years. On top of that, I have worked in this industry both on a consultancy level and as Director of mechanical services contractors for over 30 years. I fully understand the position that this channel holds when explaining the installation of services like LPG and electrics where they both have the potential to cause fatalities and that you the viewer may be following these instructions. Therefore, I have gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure that the information contained in this video is current and correct and safe to publish to all who wish to view it. The LPG information is taken directly from the European Standard EN 1949:2011+A1 updated Feb 2013 and is the most current standard for "Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles"
The system has also been installed strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. The video has been previewed by Truma before releasing to the public.
I sincerely hope that gives you a level of comfort that the information contained is correct within Europe to the very best of my ability at the time of publishing.
If you are living in another country outside of the EU then you will need to check your own local standards and I would always advise having these systems tested by a certified professional.
If anyone has a list of the standards related to van conversions (in addition to the one mentioned by Greg above) I'd be grateful. If it's anything like canal boats there will be a laundry list of them!
Like most standards and codes of practice they are not free, the current price from the bsi for this regulation is £198 and for that, you get a download PDF document of 37 pages. I know because I got a copy to make sure this video was up to the correct standards. That's £5.35 per page of an electronic document. That is criminal when these are for health and safety.
However, I am currently working on a video to cover the LPG regulations and how they apply to van conversions as I have not seen anyone do that yet and this is a complete grey area that is neither enforced or policed by any governing body. Yet we are all driving around with LPG cylinders and gas appliances in your vans, many totally unaware of the dangers.
Greg Virgoe - It is indeed obscene how much they charge. Thankfully uni students have unlimited access.
I think also you should be able to view them at your local county library too. But not take them out or copy them of course.
This standard is for public service, and like the code of law, this can't be behind a paywall.
I wish this video was mandatory training for RV installation and repair techs across the US! It is the most thorough and clear discussion of system installation I have ever seen.
I always knew you are more qualified than the average DIY by far but not your actual credentials which are truly impressive. Teaching another however requires a level of empathy, patience and the ability to look at a problem from the 3rd person perspective something few can master. Thanks for what you do Greg.
Really appreciate your comment cliff, thank you for your support
If I'd cut and bent that copper the first time as accurately as you did, Greg, I'd have stopped to have a small party to celebrate!
I tell you, Simon, that was the only bit of copper I had, I finished up with an inch so left it was a one-shot deal just to add to the pressure lol
How do you manage to bend the copper without crushing the pipe? No matter how slow I do it, the pipe always gets compressed on the bend
I was beginning to question your DIY credentials during this video until I heard you say the one phrase that confirmed your skills. *finishes screwing something down* "That's not going anywhere". Seriously though, great videos.
Beautiful piece of work and majestically explained. Should receive a bonus from RUclips for producing this type of content.
Discovering your videos recently has made my understanding of each elements of the build much clearer. This is incredibly valuable content, thank you for sharing on your channel
Just came across your Vlog and found it extremely informative. We only took delivery of our Constellation 3XL in July of 2023 so we're completely new to "van life"! However, both my wife and I like to know how things work and this video provides just what we want. Keep up the good work. Subscribed to your channel and will be watching the new build with interest. Sid and Nicola, Rugby
There are lots of helpful videos here and you are right it really does help to know how things work. 😊
Hi Greg, Excellent video. Don't take down the "3 things video we never knew about you" It gives us fans some good insight into you. You are a Rock Star! We really enjoyed it. Thanks again for everything you do for us.
Thank you Don. I know from the guys I follow as you get to know them more, it's good to hear a bit of background info.
Gives me a bit of practice for doing the vlogs on our trip too.
The BEST van build videos on RUclips!!! Thank you so much Greg!!!!!!!!
Thank you very much. I’m glad you like them 👍🏼😊
I will build my van and I will use your infos! :) It will only take a half an hour ! :)
Hi Greg!
I have spent the better part of 2 weeks watching ALL of your sprinter camper van series! Thank you! I plan of using many of your ideas and designs when I start my conversion early next year! You have answered many of my questions and given me so many ideas. I'll send pics when i start work on mine.
You're amazing! Thank you again Barbara
Its great that these videos have inspired you, that really makes all the effort worthwhile.
I will look forward to seeing your photos and wish you all the best with your future plans.
First rate, Mr. V. This retired science teacher learns so much from you. Your vlog is my fav on RUclips. 👍🏻
Science!
That's really nice of your to say so, thank you
I could watch you install these all day!
Hey Greg another Thorough & Meticulous Job installing the Truma Combi 4E & Plumbing!
You have a very Calm & pleasing Disposition & should be a Teacher!
Thank you so much for your kind generosity in Sharing in Detail all your Videos.
God Bless! Grace in Toronto
Yo Cockney Greg, superb video , just traded in our T6 for a VW Grafter Crafter , so completing planning for full build up here in Scotchland and THANK YOU for your concise , accurate well planned delivery of fitting the heart of any van. RESPECT & THANK YOU . Brian & Anna from Scotchland. 🥰🤩😁😇
Sounds great! Wish you all the best with your new conversion and thanks for watching
Great video as always & credit to the cameraman/woman for steady handwork.
That's the other half, Lou, don't make her head any bigger though Roger hey lol
Lucky man XXX
Another great video. I understand that I will need my gas system testing thoroughly but with your videos I have loads more confidence to get most of the work done myself. You need your own DIY TV show, mate. We’d all be building our own houses.
What an excellent system Truma is and looks quite straight forward to install. This is another excellent step by step tutorial. Definitely one to consider when installing our bathroom in our next project. Cheers!
The convenience of having running hot water on demand will be a game changer, turn a regular van conversion into a proper home from home.
Brilliant video Greg. An excellant series. I'm new to this camper van stuff but what I've learned from this series is nothing short of incredible. Well done you.
ive watched lots of your videos I watched this one and i will never install such a device in my van but i still enjoyed watching your video it made me feel more relaxed then i usually am just listening to your install. Then i thought this guy could make awesome AMSR videos for who ever needs them.
I had to google AMSR but now I know what you mean,
yes, there have been others that say I have a calming voice?
Thank you for watching, nice comment too
no worries just keep taking the pills. yours Greg.
Greg, you are awesome mate, you break your vids down so most people with basic common sense can follow :-) Liked your vid on the 3 things we never knew about you :-)
Thank you, Vincent, that's funny you mention that video, because in my stats that video has caused the most amount of unsubscribers and today I was going to take it down.
no way mate, the videos you are posting break everything down to their component parts and I will be using them as a reference for when I do my own van. For example, I was going to install a separate air heater and gas water heater but you have now convinced me to go with a single unit. Keep them coming. I have also been watching another blogger that has some great vids as well, his name is Jaz Morton and he is from OZ.
I meant the 3x3 video has caused the most unsubscribers lol... Jaz is fantastic, I follow him too, an electrical engineer and has done a fantastic van build.
Hi great videos really enjoyed watching them I used to be an LPG engineer you should always put some sort of gas compound or gas tape around your threaded joints also don’t allow your hot and cold pipes to touch as it can cause legionnaires disease keep up the good work buddy. 😃
The joints in this video were all compression joints with olives and it's not good practice to put anything on olives, definitely not PFTE tape.
I have used the correct gas PTFE tape on the threaded connections around the cylinder.
The current LPG regulations state jointing compounds are not to be used.
The boiler will heat and store water above 55deg C so even if the cold feed gets a little warm that's enough to kill any bugs.
The blue pipe in the video does not feed anything other than the boiler at that point.
If it was feeding a tap for drinking etc i would have insulated it, but nothing to stop the external tank getting hot in the summer too.
I would always put a bit of jointing compound on a comp fitting, I like Plumb blue as you can use it on water, gas, steam and air
Hi I agree you should never put PTFE tape on any olive that’s why I said on the threaded part. when you do your plumbing apprenticeship they spend a lot of time teaching you not to put the tape on your olive and only on the threaded part of the joint as the olives can sometimes let-by, and the PTFE tape is there to stop it from coming through the threaded part. And as for compounds it’s probably changed since I was a gas engineer as this was 20 + years ago. 😉
Hi Clan, you should never use PTFE tape on any part of a compression connection.
It should only be used for actual threaded connections.
If you put PTFE on the thread of a compression nut you are preventing the nut from tightening up fully so you are actually making the situation worse. If you have a poor olive or seat you could smear a little gas joint compound around the olive. I appreciate that not every fitting comes in mint condition. Special gas PTFE tape must be used on threaded connections like your flexible bottle hoses etc
Whoever taught you I’m afraid gave you poor advice. That is a real shame. Was it at college or working with old pipe fitters
Nice work as always,being a ex gas engineer you done a great job
That's good to know Michael, cheers
Hi Greg. You've got this video making down now eh? Another flawless, flawless I say, video.
Fabulous attention to detail, and seemingly consummately easily.
Regards Mark in the UK
I'm in my comfort zone with this one Mark, this is what I do and who I am. Mechanical Services has been my life for 34years and I know what I'm talking about which is why it comes across so naturally. When I first saw an exploded view of this boiler on the Truma stand at the NEC I knew exactly how it worked and could describe it in great detail as I have done in the previous Truma Video. I now want to share that knowledge to help others make informed decisions as there is a lot of poor information on the internet :D
Can't believe that i've binge watched the whole playlist since yesterday evening. Even more so since campervans don't interest me much :)) It's your caution, diligence and precision that make your videos fun to watch i guess ;) I wonder what would happen if you started a project on something i'd love to have myself. Keep up the good wörk!
Thankyou so much for watching them all and giving such great feedback, I'm really intrigued to know what you are interested in?
Another reason why i enjoy watching your vids is to learn "Colloquial Workshop English" by listing. No book can ever teach you that.
My interests are green/sustainable building/architecture, solar, wind, etc. Not on an industrial but on a small DIY homebuilder scale, and be it just a cabin or holiday cottage. You told somewhere you were a HVAC engineer so anything about natural cooling would blow my mind. There's a lot about ecologic heating out there but very little about green cooling. Have you ever heard about heating with ice? I find it extremely hard to wrap my head around this physical phenomenon. It's suited for cooling too of course.
ruclips.net/video/Z7qPCeRhbPc/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/A4tuJvYFKw4/видео.html
I know that's much but you asked for it and i don't expect you to ever do something like that at all ;)
Hello, Sorry for the delay in replying but as your message contained links it goes into my review folder, to try and cut down those that like to spam popular channels. The first video showing the ice storage tank is very old technology, I actually designed one of the first of these systems to be installed in this country but on a larger commercial scale at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford, Essex. It was used to cool the operating theatres, we installed a massive ice storage tank which would be frozen up overnight on the cheap rate electricity, then the cool water was run off during the day to serve all the HVAC plant in the hospital. If you are interested in free cooling then google "adiabatic cooling"
This is where you use the evaporation of water to cool air as it passes over a wet filter, you can get 4-5°C of cooling and for very little energy use.
Another fabulous informative video Greg. When I build my van it will have to have a plaque referencing all of your advice and generously shared knowledge. You a true van life legend. Look forward to meeting you one day.
And just to add I installed a Truma 6 diesel one I my Renault master ... really great unit and have toured Norway Finland and Sweden for two months... excellent !
That's really great to hear, I'm guessing with the 6kw unit you had loads of heat and your motorhome was really nice and warm.
Did you also have a shower in the camper?
Very cool. My build is still only in my head but one thing that's already established in there is that there will be no LPG. Diesel heat, tapped straight into the van's diesel tank so no worries about more than one fuel. Cooking may in fact also be a diesel burning range, but more likely lithium batteries and electric induction cooking. Of course, a 6000 watt heater like the 6D is overkill, but anything to get away from gas. I may just go with Eberspächer products though (the 6D has Eberspächer furnace components in it to burn the diesel, for that matter.) But using an Eberspächer Hydronic unit to heat glycol means you need to add heat exchangers and do some DIY style work to cobble it all together.
Greg Virgoe
Hi sorry for a response way to late!..I’m not really into all this social media stuff.
Yes, I do have a shower wet room fitted with a composting toilet with one blower from the heater in there...great for drying stuff with the door shut.
I guess my mistake with inserts was over flexible vs rigid copper piping! Flexible takes an insert!
Thanks for the videos...very informative.
Hi S Otobfree. Can you give me some info about your Truma D6 Diesel Heater please? Is it noisy, does it make the annoying constant clicking noise that a lot of people complain about with the Webasto & Eberspacher diesel heaters? What is the electrical draw? Thanks Tracey
Is it still working fine ?
Great explanation of what seemed a difficult task. Detailed and simplified.
It really was very simple to install, the JG water fittings are dead easy to put together.
Just need to be aware of the LPG system and the safety aspects of having gas in your vehicle.
Thanks a lot, it’s very clear. You save me a lot of time ! Kiss from France 🇫🇷
I’m really pleased you like it 😃
As with all your videos Greg, superb quality, information and presentation. I can’t believe one of the highlights of my week is looking forward to your next video - keep up the excellent work. You deserve a huge, huge following.
That is really nice to hear, thank you very much for your continued support and kind words.
Some of the best well shot and explained videos out there. Puts a lot of the rest in back place and and its free to watch. Top top stuff
Smart guy!!! Your videos are so helpful and easy to watch.
william coster thank you very much 👍🏼😃
Absolutely Brilliant, you explain it so perfectly. Nothing on RUclips or anywhere else comes close to this information and It’s Free 😄😄 thank you for sharing Greg, 👍👍👍
That's what I love about the internet, you can find information on anything and everything.
I'm in awe of your cabinet making skills, you do some amazing things with oak, top class.
Having watched some of your other videos and seeing how carefully you have ensured a vapour barrier everywhere I looked for a video where you had installed a gas appliance to check that you had put a gas drop in. I should never have doubted you Greg. Although I do worry some people might skim watch and miss it.
Gas seems to be the one subject that nobody knows about and everyone skims.
I'm working on a detailed video covering the current regulations regarding LPG in your van.
It will open a few eyes I have no doubt :D
I learn so much from every one of your videos.
That’s good 😃
Excellent as always. Thanks for a really helpful video. Lots of things to connect on one of these!
They are brilliant bit of kit and fairly easy to work on. Not too complicated 👍🏼😃
HI Greg! I watch your videos in 2023, great job, wow! I have one question - how many hot air outlets do you have? do you have it shown in a video somewhere?
Really great video, thanks for sharing this information - I've just bought one of these boilers for me van and I'm genuinely terrified of fitting it. Definitely have overwhelm at the moment but this vid makes it much clearer 👍🏻
It’s really very straight forward if you follow these videos. 👍🏼😁
Would love an update/review of the trauma 4e after you have lived with it for a while now..... why you chose that model over the cheaper Truma Ultrastore and other brands and how easy it is to use on a day to day basis for showering etc.
Love the video and the channel mate - what would us van addicts do without ya!
Yep. Would also be very interested in a follow up video detailing daily use, etc.
Greg this has to be my favourite video so far.. Think I've mentioned I have the same boiler and considered it a no go area when renovating my camper a few years ago.. I feel like its not something I couldn't take on myself after watching yr video..
PS- Id still get an expert to check it afterwards tho ;))
It really is very simple in terms of its connections, as you have seen.
Christmas Day watching this vid 😊 (and not for the first time either!). A Boiler Maker at work, love the tidy installation ✔️. Always learning and I've just seen that you use pipe liners in the hot water pipe. I'd forgotten to put any of these in any of my joints that i've done so far 😩 and can completely see their purpose. A quick search showed that Magnum MH sell these, ordered 😊, thanks again buddy. Cheers!
Sunnycampers I had also installed some of mine before I checked with JG but luckily I could get access to them and the push fit come apart easily.
Can you get to all your joints ok to retro fit them?
Greg Virgoe Fortunately, yes 👍 The only pipes that are installed are the underfloor ones, with the tails being easily accessible 😊
Thanks for the video. I have a Truma Combi 6E in my van conversion and your videos are interesting.
Great video Greg, im about to start my second van build, I have learnt a lot from my first build and this new one will be something I can live in if I want to, I will be checking out all your vids and will probably be asking you a few questions, my van build is on my RUclips channel if you fancy a look at my first van. Watching this vid has convinced me to fit a Truma Combi.
Hi Greg, fantastic informative video from you as they always are. May I request that you attenuate the music slightly as I have to have the volume right up to hear what you are saying, so when watching the video late at night or early in the morning the music wakes my wife when it comes on!
Hello, yes I'm already conscious of the audio levels, currently all clips are adjusted to achieve similar audio levels. Some speech needs to be increased by as much as 200% if I'm not facing the camera or got my lavelier mic fitted. All tool noises are reduced to about 30% and music currently to 60% as I too do most of my editing in the small hours when others are asleep. A set of headphones might be the answer?
Thanks for your feedback, much appreciated.
@@GregVirgoe - yes I'll have to resort to that. If its any consolation, there are other channels I watch which seem to blast the music and then whisper into the microphone. Or maybe it's me... Maybe I'm just going deaf! Haha. Thank you for taking the time to respond. Please keep up the amazing, technical content. I think it keeps your videos nicely in a rare and much sought after niche. :thumbup
I really appreciate your support and will review the music more closely in future 👍🏼
I love your T shirt ... "IT WILL ONLY TAKE HALF AN HOUR" ... L.O.L
I have been a D.I.Y person for years, and it can take me that long
to find the correct screw driver some times :)
Jokes apart ... Thank you for these videos, really useful.
Very very informative video. Just one more thing to add. In the pc board you skipped past the link wire beside the thermostat connections. They are for a window switch that must be fitted if the boiler flue is directly underneath an opening window or within 300 mm of the window. It’s to stop the stuff that kills you entering when it’s open. All so regulations state you must have 10mm clearance between gas pipes and any other services at cross over points. And it’s best to use copper olives in your gas fittings as brass can cut into the pipe over time creating a leak. And it’s all so better to use sweeping bends instead of sharp 90 degree bends as a sharp bend increases pressure drop more when doing your pipe sizing calculations. And you will need a 2000 mm2 vent in your appliance compartment to allow room air to circulate through the boiler. Not combustion air but room temperature air. And minimum flue lentght for a horizontal exit is 600mm. There’s more than one thing I added there I do apologise but mate that is a very very good installation and very informative.
Greg, we love your van build videos! You are absolutely THE best van build series on YT! So much detail and information... Much appreciated!
We're just getting started on our Truma 4E install.... Wanted to ask you a quick question on the 12v wiring for the Truma 4E and the Truma CP Plus. Did you wire these up for 12v on separate cable runs, or did you just splice the CP Plus 12v feed into the main 12v feed to the Truma 4E?
Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge & experience!
This is perfect timing! We've been in the van a few months now and are starting to think about our options for winter. We plan on heading to Spain/Portugal but figure we'll still get a bit cold so have been researching our options. Thanks for always putting out such helpful content.
Hannah and Myron, we are also planning to head down to southern Spain and along the med for winter. Maybe see you down there 😀
That'd be great!
Hi Greg, first of all can I congratulate you on the best self build series on RUclips. Clear and comprehensive.
I have recently bought a 14 plate VW Crafter, which is, to all intents and purposes a Sprinter.
I am hoping to use your videos as a template!
I am in the very early stages, about to thread the wiring, I have a couple of questions!
1. In your wiring video, you thread a cable vertically through the corrugated trunking. The equivalent route in my van (which externally looks the same as yours) has an obstruction part way down and only allows the passage of string or cable! Did you have to open this route up at all?
2. I am keen to use the Truma Combi Boiler, but will have to purchase it later. Is the control cable a standard Cat5 network cable? I have plenty of that and could route it now in preparation!
Hope these aren't too trivial a question!
Cheers
Dan
Excellent video, super easy. Great editing and very tidy work. Thanks
Great video Sir, and also a pleasure to watch. I, myself having worked in the building services game for 30yrs or so ,as a contractor, always value good workmanship, with simple explanations followed by a clear execution, and you have nailed both as always. On a practical note, would you lay the flue to a slight fall to atmosphere, so to expel any condensate formation that may build up in the flue pipe/s, this seems good practice on a domestic sized job. PS you are fueling my desire to `camper van' as I work in all areas of the country, IR35 implementations have some what pulled a shadow over the hotels bill affordability - so this camper van life has a cheap hotel stamp written all over it!!!!!
You know what mate, your a legend! you explained that perfectly and look forward to seeing the next one...
Matt and Abbie thank you 😊 there is a whole playlist to watch 😃
Brilliant video Greg , top bloke once again you certainly know your stuff always totally interesting and professional 👍🏼
Thank you Simon, very kind of you
Really liking your van posts Greg, have plans to do my own build in the near future. Your videos have given me some great ideas and inspiration. Keep up the good work. :-)
Thanks very much Davie, best wishes with your future build
Thanks Greg, absolutely fantastic video and really helpful.
No problem 😉 glad it helped you
Greg, the "aeration valve" that connects the "ventilation hose" (quoting Truma's installation manual) and the hot water discharge hose to the top of the device, do you know what purpose specifically it has?
I believe the purpose of the valve is to vent the boiler with air when it is filling up and/or draining (not sure which, or both??), which in turn is to make the filling and/or draining easier (but the valve is not strictly a necessity for said function, only making the operation easier/quicker, and by extension, even if this valve were to not let any air through, opening the FrostControl valve would eventually deplete all the water in the system?).
I believe also that the valve acts as a pressure relief valve for the hot water in the boiler (hot water expands when heated up). The FrostControl unit further down on the floor is also a pressure relief valve, but only for the cold water side?
I'm asking because my valve is dripping drops of water through the ventilation hose to the outside of the vehicle, even when the Truma device is not running. I suspect the valve isn't holding tight when it is supposed to (maybe because of debris and/or some form of scale building up or whatever). It is seemingly leaking water only until the level of the water in the main fresh water tank has become leveled with the boiler 🤔
But, I am very very unsure about all these things 🤯
great video again Greg. nice little unit the truma, very versitile.
It's the controllability that I m most looking forward to having time control and accurate temperature control too will be a bonus.
What an amazingly well laid out video. Thank you.
Erika A Mac really glad you liked it 😃
Excellent stuff, well worth the wait, think I might plan one for my van, keep up the great videos, cheers
Yes indeed, with the digital controls and the number of ducted outlets around the van it's going to be so controllable and up to temperature in minutes.
Miles better than the room thermostat in our old house lol
Hi Greg. Thanks so much for the video on the Truma 4e combi. I just wondered if you let me know what size and make of LPG tank you would recommend for this type of heater. Thank you! Jo
If I was to do this again I would recommend fitting an underslung gas tank from gas-it as it is safer and has larger capacity.
Truma now has the 6D which is the only model for diesel fuel and electric which is what I would like to have instead of going with the Espar diesel heater and something else for the hot water where most folks are using gas. Unfortunately, the Truma 6D is for a large RV style motor home so I'll wait until someone comes out with a small diesel interior/hot water heater. I have the small 07 Sprinter 144" so the 6D would be overkill for that.
This video was so satisfying. I need more GREG
I'm pleased you enjoyed it. I'm working on a detailed video covering the current gas regulations for vans as nobody has done one that I know of and nobody knows what they or that they even exist. Frightening really as we are all driving around with ticking time bombs in our vans :o
Excellent clear and concise video Greg. I am considering swapping out a Whale unit for a Truma but ideally would prefer an underfloor placement for a Diesel -Electric unit that does both Water and Space heating. My understanding is that all Truma units are designed for interior fit out only but I'm only starting my search. Greg, are you able to confirm Truma units are all interior only? I've looked on the Truma FAQ's but cant find confirmation. Thanks for your great channel.
👏
Yes they are only for internal fitting. I will say that ours has been absolutely amazing and continues to work so well with no problems
Hi Greg do you have to have the cold water on a pump before the combi.
Yes, this boiler works best with a pressurised system, watch this video where I explain it in more detail
ruclips.net/video/7gieUNuZan4/видео.html
Hi Greg! Great video once again thank you! What cables does the wall mounted controller need?
There is a black control cable that come with the boiler with plugs on the end like a telephone cable.
The controller also needs a 12v DC power supply protected by a 1Amp fuse.
Being an American, I found a US supplier! WooHoo!
That's awesome, would you mind sharing the link with others?
www.truma.com/us/en/products/truma-rv-and-caravan-heater/truma-combi-eco-plus.html
Hi Greg, I am 'nearly' ready to fit the Truma boiler. The Truma literature suggest not having any flooring under the boiler, your video shows you have the Altro flooring and it looks as if its under the Truma. I'm assuming that it's ok (or I'm sure you wouldn't have done it), and it would be much easier for me.
Excellent video as always Greg. One thought.
I've heard you say that most of your travels should be in warm climates, with this in mind, did you ever give any thought to installing the Truma air con system?
If you had considered it and rejected the idea what put you off? Space, power requirements, cost or a combination?
Thanks again, best van conversation resource on the Internet.
Yes, I did look at them and consider it, the cost was not an issue as it's very similar in price to the combi boiler.
The heat pump version runs off 230v supply and is rated at 2400watts so in practical terms you could only run it while on mains hook-up. Plus you still need to install a hot water solution. It also would have taken up valuable roof space which I had earmarked for solar panels. We wanted to be able to go off the grid for long periods and it didn't really fit that model.
Hi Greg, I admire how you have followed the Build Standards like a good German Officer. 'Ridgid fittings must only be used on the gas installation in a moving vehicle'. Doesn't that smell just a little bit odorous to you??? You may get your gas certification but, let's face it, I hope you install a good detector/alarm and leaked gas outlet.
Hi Norman, that is not dictated by Truma, it's a requirement of the current EU regulation for the installation of LPG into recreational vehicles.
The heater is secured to the vehicle with 4 hefty screws and the copper tube well secured also. I will be fitting gas detection and have fitted drop out vents too, I have also pressure tested the gas to 150mbar, 5x working pressure, also in accordance with the regs. I will be doing a video on the regs for everyone as there doesn't seem to be anyone following these rules.
great vid. thats probably one of you most watched i bet
Hi Greg,
First of all great job with your videos. I might convert a van next year all being well but I watched already all your videos! I loved the details of the explanations! Really great! I am Italian and could nearly forgive you for the pineapple pizza...lol
One question: how do you find the truma combi for showering? Are 10l of hot water enough or you often end up with a cold shower?
Apologies if you already had a similar question!
All the best and safe travelling!
Is there a reason you chose this appliance over a continuous hot water supply?
Great video as always, thanks for making them so detailed and informative.
Hi Graham, can you give me a link for that unit, so I can check it out and compare it please?
Hi Greg. Another fantastic video thank you! Very clear & precise, I really appreciate the time you take to make these videos in order to help other people! I have a few questions Greg; How do you find the Truma for heating & hot water (independently of each other & used together) now that you've been using it for some time? Do you find that the manual times for heat up by Truma are accurate? How long does it take for just the heating to heat up? How long for just hot water? How long for both together? If I had a shower & then my partner wanted a shower straightaway afterwards, how long would he have to wait for recovery time? Hope you can answer these questions for me as want to go ahead & purchase a Truma but waiting on your reply until I do, just to be on safe side! Thanks again Greg. Stay Safe in these strange times!! Tracey.
Hello Tracey, it will fast become the best thing in your van, we would not be without ours.
We use the heating on its eco setting (low fan speed) as that is all you need and heats the van up in just a few minutes. Maintains set temperature perfectly just coming on and off. As a by-product of the heating, you get a tank of hot water anyway so no need to put that on separately really. we have found if we turn the temp down to 15-16 overnight it keeps the chill off the van and condensation down plus in the morning you have a full tank of hot water for showers or washing.
We can both shower on one tank of hot water as you are mixing it 50-50 with cold water so you actually get 20 litres of warm water.
Another really cool feature is the iNet box which allows you to control the truma remotely from the van either by Bluetooth if in range or by GSM SMS text from anywhere you have a phone signal. often when we are out if it's getting chilly we text the van to put the heating on so when we get back to it it's lovely and warm and a tank of hot water.
We never need to put the boiler on just to heat hot water we use it when it's available, sometimes if you just want to do some dishes its more economical on gas to boil a kettle. However, if you wanted a shower it heats up fully in 20mins no problem enough of two showers.
We could not be happier with ours and guarantee you will be too, it has made our van a cosy home :D
@@GregVirgoe Thank you so much for your in-depth reply Greg, it is so helpful! Good point about boiling the kettle for washing dishes only!! Would you say that the Truma system is economical on LPG? Can you give me some idea of how long a gas bottle lasts you, (cant remember if it's an 11kg bottle you have?) & what I can expect from that size bottle in terms of usage please Greg? If you can give any info on electrical draw too that would be great? Do you find that the Truma is noisy at all? Once again, thanks Greg, appreciate the help & informative videos!! Tracey
Hi Greg
I am about to install this same boiler and this video has been extrememly helpful and i thank you for that.
You mention that a test point and a pressure relief valve both need to be fitted for the lpg. Could you tell me the best place to fit these,can it be anywhere that is convenient or somewhere more specific. You mentioned that you had a run straight from the tank to the boiler with no breaks so wondered where you fitted them.
Thanks in advance,your videos are superb.
The pressure relief is a part that comes with the boiler and is fitted to the hot water outlet. There is also a drop out valve fitting to the floor both in this video.
The testing of the gas I did in this video and starts about 2 1/2 minutes into the video ruclips.net/video/8nmFdSU06GM/видео.htmlsi=EIFctEsdtTdZd-XR
Thank you for replying greg. So no need for me to worry about a pressure relief valve. So can i fit a test point anywhere thats convenient on the gas pipe. Just watched your link to the test video but couldnt see it.Thanks again.
Hi Greg love your videos
We have a problem with our truma combi 4e boiler it’s blowing the 10A fuse. The fuse is located behind the boiler under the 12v cables round fuse white color.
Tried to replace it but as soon as I put new one it blows it..
do you know what it could be?
Many thanks 🙏
Im sorry to hear that I don’t know what it could be. Please Contact Truma Ltd Customer Services
Phone: 01283 587960
E-mail: technical@trumauk.com
Service times
Monday - Friday 8.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.
Weekends and bank holidays: Closed
Thanks for the guidance in this video, Greg. Top advice as always. I just had a quick question. You mention that you connect your 230v for the Truma via a fused spur for easy isolation. Can you then also fuse the fused spur to carry on and connect to a plug socket?
Sorry if that doesn't make sense, but essentially you have one cable connecting to the fused spur from your consumer unit and the truma connected also. Could you then connect another cable (so 9 wires total in the fused spur) that runs to a separate plug socket?
Appreciate your insight if you know the answer!
Thanks
is there a re set button on this boiler,,mine was working fine and now will blow but no hot water,,only 2 years old,,thank you..or any other suggestions please..
david Walton on your remote controller go to the little spanner symbol and push button to enter menu. Go to the last option which is RESET and push button.
Make sure you have gas available as the boiler will go to lockout if you run out of gas
@@GregVirgoe i dont have a remote,its a combi 4 my only controls are a single dial on wall..
very neat and very professional, thank you, i will follow your wisdom once i move to the UK.
Hi greg love your videos very useful!!! I have couple of questions: i guess for truma combi you used 1.5 mm cable for 12v, so my question is why for the fridge you using 6 mm cable when is consuming less then the boiler. Please if you could answer as we just started our conversion and we are following your video to do it! Anyway thanks a lot for sharing your conversion and your work is just great!!!!
The fridge manufacturers recommended 6mm because of the voltage drop on smaller cables.
@@GregVirgoe thank you very much🙏🏻☺️
Another great video Greg. Many thanks
Thank you very much Iain
There is debate on how best to descale a truma boiler. Would appreciate your opinion.
Great video. Do you know what the draw is on the 12v system, i expectbquite high on start? Just wiring and trying to decide on a 3mm or 6mm 12v cable.
Thankyou
such details. so much fun to watch and LEARN.. ty so much
Hi. I notice you didn't use the insert on the cold (blue) pipe. Is that because it won't expand. Can I use it to be safe.
Thanks.
You don’t need them on the cold water pipes. The hot pipes go a little softer when hot water goes through them. JG advised me 😁
Hi Greg, did the thermostat cable come with the unit or did you buy it as an extra. I only ask as mine has now been delivered with the thermostat but no cable.
Do you mean the small temperature sensor. About size of 20p in diameter?
Mine came with a cable very similar to bell wire with small spade connectors on. I had to extend mine a little and I know you can run up to 10m of cable. Use a 0.75 or 1mm flat pair like speaker or doorbell cable. Let me know if something else? Cheers
@@GregVirgoe thanks Greg, I'll get onto my supplier as it's missing 👍
Another great video Greg
Thanks John
Hi, exellent job, thanks for showing us.
Best reagards from Berlin Germany,
Steppe
Thank you too!
Cracking video as ever. Like a good detailed vid from you. Its all coming together 😁
I worry about the length of the videos, but with so much information to get across its difficult to get them shorter.
I don't want to put people off watching it because it's too long. What do you think?
@@GregVirgoe I think if your aim for your videos was purely entertainment you would probably want to aim at shorter videos. However what you are producing is a detailed reference as well as entertainment, if you remove content to make the videos snappy, you remove the useful side that they currently have. For anyone seriously considering converting a van or in the process of doing so, longer videos are essential, and particularly your videos are essential.
HoileeUK thank you, that's really useful feedback, much appreciated.
Hi Greg
Was there any reason why you didn’t put your combi boiler in the garage
Sorry to keep asking questions, just I want to get my camper right and you are the only one with extensive information
ian fairbairn that’s a good question and for a number of reasons. I’ll try and list them in priority with main one first.
1. To keep the return air path back to the boiler as short as possible and within the living area. This cannot be ducted.
2. To keep the supply duct length as short as possible to reduce duct resistance and maximise airflow and minimise heat loss in the ducts.
3. So I didn’t lose valuable storage space in the garage where later I would like to carry a bike.
The other factors like Pipework and cables don’t really matter as they can be routed quite easily.
So it really boiled down to the best location for airflow and vent outlets.
We only ever need it on its eco setting and the van is so warm and quiet too.
Greg Virgoe
Thanks for the reply my boiler has just been delivered so be prepared for some more questions lol, I hope you got your inverter sorted, take care and stay safe
ian fairbairn no problem, happy to help if the info is not in my videos. Yes inverter is all sorted now thank you. Wish I could say the same about the weather. We currently have snow ⛄️😁
Can you please send a link to the electrical side of the install of the Truma 4e as discussed in you video?
Have you checked how hot the gas pipe gets when it’s in use? With mine, I’ve a small leak (I think from the hot water elbow) and with it set to hot on electric 2 the gas pipe gets bloody hot! On my van a few inches after where the gas pipe goes in it has an outer plastic sheath on the gas pipe, but noted yours didn’t and is close to the van lino. Just a heads up as to quite how hot it gets!
Hi Greg. Great series mate! Re Trauma combi. Will it run without connecting the room sensor. The kit I bought didn't have it in it and its quite expensive to buy. Thanks
No you need the room sensor that controls the temp of the heating.
Here is one I found on eBay. www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TRUMA-ROOM-TEMPERATURE-SENSOR-COMBI-HEATING-SYTEMS-FOR-CARAVAN-AND-MOTORHOME-/143788793989?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m2548.l6249&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0
Hi Greg ~ With great joy and interest, I have followed every episode of the van build so far. It is such fun to witness your professionalism and concise descriptions. Truly a blessing. Thank you.,...... and OH!!! ...... what a VOICE !!!! U-la-la!! I have three questions. 1) was there a reason you chose to not put hydronic radiant heat in the floor? 2) did you heat the under carriage water tanks with hydronic's 3) the Diesel Sprinter Vans in the USA have had lots of issues with the BlueTec emissions systems. Have you had that concern with yours?. with gratitude, ~ Tallie ps: say "hi" to Lou for me!!
Hey Greg loved watching your van build series I have a question about the truma controller one black wire goes to the boiler but where does the little red wire go is it for power to go to as I’m confused
Many thanks
Kim
There is a plug in flat control cable that has a plug on the end. The other cable is a 12v dc power supply. It needs a positive and negative protected by a 1Amp blade fuse
@@GregVirgoe lovely thank you so much for your reply
@@kimsanders8689 no problem anytime
Brilliant thanks Greg .... enjoy your travels
Thank you for your cracking videos ❤ It makes me feel like I can achieve it. I have a question that I've just thought about and I'd appreciate your advice on, do I need to connect my shurflo water pump in line to the boiler? If that makes sense 😅
Hello Greg. Great videos. I have just installed a new combi 4 E boiler in my s520 Hymer. The old c3402 gave up and cannot get parts. What is required to get the CP Control panel working ? Does one need the I Net box ? Or does it work independently ? I cannot get the control panel to start up ! Also there is no where that states where to Small 2 red/red-Black wires are installed at the rear of the control panel. My electrician as installed them to a 12V power supply but still no Joy. It will not switch on. So help would be greatly appreciated.
You need 12v power to both the cp panel and the boiler. Plus the interconnection data cable installed. The boiler needs a 10amp supply and the controller needs a 1Amp supply. Once you have those on you should see it working ok 👍🏼
Greg, Your videos are amazing, very clear, concise and thorough. Much appreciated. I haven't found anyone asking if there is benefit to adding foam pipe insulation around the hot water lines. Is it just too short a run to matter?
I am running out of words to describe PERFECTION!! 🤔🤔🤔😱.......👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
If you get stuck this might help www.thesaurus.com ;) lol
But seriously, thank you very much!
This raises a mystery for me which I have on my A Class: there's only one drain down valve, and it's connected to the cold water pipe which runs into the boiler at the bottom. The hot-line exits the boiler at the top.. so how can the hot-pipes drain seeing as the hot pipe's water has to flow up from the floor level to get back inside the boiler in order to then drain back to the cold line where there is a drain tap? This is especially confusing considering there must be a none return valve at the boiler cold feed. Maybe the lack of a hot drain is the reason why I'm left with about 8 litres of water in my system after drain down.
Yes, if your hot water pipe comes off the boiler and drops to the floor there may always be some water left in that pipe. You could fit another drain valve at the hot low point.