If you’re doing your research for a caravan hot water system, chances are you’ve narrowed your list to two options: a Truma hot water system and a Camec system.
The question we always get asked is this: why is there a $1000 difference between the two?
The Truma hot water system has a price tag of around $2000, while a Camec hot water system is more affordable at less than $1000.
They both heat water, so what are you getting for your money? And is the Truma hot water system worth the extra dollars?
Let’s break it down.
The hot water systems we’re comparing here are:
Advantages Of Both Hot Water Systems
Both the Camec and Truma hot water system have lots of great features that give you value for money.
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They are both European designs, which delivers quality and reliability.
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Both systems are instantaneous water heaters, so you get hot water as soon as you turn it on without having to wait.
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Both systems boast low gas consumption, which is ideal if you are travelling off-grid.
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Camec and Truma hot water systems are AGA Approved, which means you can have peace of mind that they are Australian Gas approved for use in recreational vehicles.
Now What Are The Differences?
Gas Consumption
While both systems boast a low gas consumption, Camec has a much lower gas consumption compared to the Truma hot water system. Camec consumes 38.5 MJ/Hr versus 61.9 MJ/Hr for Truma.
Heating Technology
Truma AquaGo has some innovative features that really set it apart (and justify the higher price tag).
First, Truma is super speedy. It only takes up to 6 seconds to provide hot water whereas Camec takes 20 seconds. This might not sound like much but when you’re waiting in the cold for hot water, every second counts!
One of these is the hybrid heating technology. The patent pending temperature stabiliser uses a powerful microprocessor to give you a constant water temperature at high and low flow rates, and varying inlet water temperatures. So the temperature at the hot water outlet is a steamy 49˚c without fluctuating.
There’s also a built-in thermostat for when the temperature falls below 5 degrees. Camec doesn't have this, which makes Truma a better option for colder temperatures.
Easy Maintenance
Another top benefit for the Truma hot water system is the super easy maintenance. There are no tools required for draining. You also get a reusable filter cartridge to reduce scale sediment, so your system lasts longer.
Different Modes
What we love about Truma is the choice of different modes depending on how you’re using the hot water system. Choose from:
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Eco – energy saving
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Comfort – provides rapid availability of hot water when you just need a hot shower fast
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Decalcification – for easy cleaning when using hard water. This is especially great for when you’re travelling to places with bore water as it won’t damage your system. The LED display indicates when service is required.
Warranty
One of the biggest differences between the two is the warranty period. Camec only provides a 1 Year warranty, compared to the 2 Year warranty for the Truma AquaGo hot water system. Truma also boasts a greater service network and access to spare parts.
Design
They’re both small and compact units but you can’t help but notice that Truma has a much sleeker design to suit your caravan.
Over To You
What price will you pay for an amazing shower and hot water while you travel? For low maintenance, a good warranty and innovative features, the Truma hot water system is tough to beat. But if the Truma price tag is too high, Camec is a great value option.
DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
