Caravan technology has come a long way in recent years. Gone are the days of carrying separate heaters and fans just to stay comfortable. The latest generation of combi heaters — systems that both heat and cool your caravan — offer a new level of convenience, efficiency, and comfort.
At UK Camping & Leisure, we’ve seen a growing demand for these dual-purpose systems, especially from customers who travel year-round. Whether you tour the Highlands in autumn or chase summer sunshine abroad, a combi air conditioner gives you perfect climate control in one easy-to-use unit.
What Is a Combi Heater?
A combi heater (also called a reverse-cycle air conditioner or dual-use unit) combines two functions:
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Cooling during hot weather, just like a standard air conditioner.
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Heating in cooler months, by reversing the cooling process to pull warmth from the outside air and release it inside your caravan.
This heat-pump technology is highly efficient — rather than generating heat, it transfers it. That means lower energy use and quicker temperature adjustments, making it ideal for touring life.
How It Works (Simple Science Version)
Inside every reverse-cycle air conditioner is a sealed circuit filled with refrigerant gas. When cooling, the system extracts heat from your caravan and releases it outside. When you switch to heating mode, it reverses direction — drawing warmth from the outdoor air and pumping it indoors.
Even in chilly temperatures, there’s still usable heat energy in the air, which the system can convert into warmth for your living space. It’s a clean, efficient process with no fumes or condensation, and it runs entirely on electricity — perfect for campsites with hook-ups or inverter power.
Why Combi Systems Are the Future of Caravan Comfort
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One Installation, Two Functions
Instead of paying for both a heater and an air conditioner, one system handles everything.
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Energy Efficient
Heat-pump technology delivers up to three times more heat energy than it consumes in electricity — far more efficient than fan heaters or gas systems.
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Dry, Even Warmth
No condensation or cold spots — just balanced, comfortable air throughout your space.
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Quiet Operation
Ideal for overnight use; no rattling fans or fuel burners to disturb your sleep.
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Year-Round Value
Use it daily in summer and winter, spreading cost and maintenance evenly across the year.
Combi vs Separate Systems
| Feature |
Combi Heater (All-in-One) |
Separate Air Conditioner + Heater |
| Installation |
One single unit |
Two installations |
| Efficiency |
High – reverse cycle |
Moderate – depends on setup |
| Energy Source |
Electric (no gas needed) |
Often mixed (electric/gas) |
| Heating Speed |
Fast & even |
Variable |
| Maintenance |
Low |
Medium to high |
| Space Required |
Minimal |
More |
| Value for Money |
Excellent year-round |
Seasonal use only |
Recommended Combi Heater Models
Truma Aventa Comfort Rooftop Air Conditioner
A premium dual-mode system that cools, heats and dehumidifies with precision. The built-in heat pump means reliable warmth even when outside temperatures dip to around 4 °C. Ideal for larger caravans or motorhomes, the Aventa Comfort is one of the quietest and most efficient systems in its class.
Why customers love it: low noise, powerful performance, automatic climate control, and dependable Truma build quality.
→ Available now at UK Camping & Leisure.
Mestic RTA-2600 Rooftop Air Conditioner
Perfect for mid-to-large caravans, this model offers 2,400 W of heating power alongside effective cooling and dehumidifying. It’s lightweight, efficient and uses inverter technology for smooth temperature transitions.
Best for: those who want modern comfort with minimal energy draw.
Mestic RTA-2500L Rooftop Air Conditioner
Compact yet capable, the RTA-2500L provides 2,200 W of heating and powerful cooling for vehicles up to about 8 metres. A great option for smaller caravans and campervans, offering quiet, balanced airflow and simple digital controls.
Best for: medium-sized caravans or anyone upgrading from a traditional fan heater.
Choosing the Right Combi System
Before you buy, think about:
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Vehicle Size & Insulation: Larger or less-insulated vans need higher capacity models.
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Power Source: Most combi units require 230 V mains power. For off-grid use, pair with a generator or inverter system.
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Installation Type: Rooftop models save interior space, while under-bench options keep the exterior profile clean.
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Noise Preference: Premium units like the Truma Aventa Comfort offer ultra-quiet operation for overnight use.
If you’re unsure which setup is right for you, our team at UK Camping & Leisure can help you choose a model matched to your caravan’s layout and travel style.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Efficiency
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Clean or replace filters every few months.
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Keep air vents free from obstructions inside and out.
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Run your system for short periods during storage to keep components lubricated.
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Check seals and fixings annually — a tight installation prevents performance loss.
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For roof units, remove debris and wash housings periodically.
These small steps help your system run efficiently for years and ensure quiet, consistent operation across seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do combi heaters work in winter?
Yes! Modern heat-pump systems can still extract warmth from the air even when outside temperatures drop. They’re perfect for autumn and winter touring across the UK and Europe.
Are they expensive to run?
Not compared to gas or fan heaters. Reverse-cycle units are among the most efficient heating systems available, converting roughly 1 kW of electricity into up to 3 kW of heat output.
Can I fit one myself?
For roof-mounted or under-bench systems, we recommend professional installation to ensure correct sealing and performance.
Do they need much power?
They run from standard campsite mains supply (230 V). For off-grid use, check wattage compatibility with your generator or inverter.
Do they really dehumidify?
Yes — combi air conditioners remove moisture from the air, keeping your caravan dry and comfortable, especially during the colder months.
Ready to Simplify Your Setup?
Trade the clutter of separate heaters and fans for one elegant solution. With dual-use combi systems from trusted brands like Truma and Mestic, you’ll enjoy energy-efficient comfort wherever the road takes you.
