Types of Caravan Heating Systems

When it comes to spending time in a caravan, whether for a weekend getaway or as a full-time home, one of the most important features to consider is the heating system. Heating plays a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable stay, particularly during colder months. Two popular types of caravan heating systems are blown air heating and Alde wet central heating. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and understanding their differences will help you make the right choice for your needs.

In this article, we will delve into both heating systems, comparing their benefits and drawbacks.

Blown Air Heating Systems

Blown air heating is one of the most common types of caravan heating systems and is widely used in both caravans and motorhomes. This system uses a fan to blow warm air throughout the caravan to heat the space. It has been the longest standing heating system within the caravan market, with Truma being the most recognised brand for blown air systems

How Blown Air Heating Works

Blown air heating systems operate by heating the air inside the unit via a heat exchanger. A fan then blows the warm air into the caravan’s interior through a series of ducts and vents located throughout the vehicle. The air is typically heated using gas or electricity as a fuel source, although some models may also incorporate diesel if it’s a camper or motorhome.

The system is quite simple, with a control panel that allows the user to adjust the temperature or set a schedule for heating. It is a highly effective way to heat the caravan quickly, especially in smaller spaces, and provides flexibility by using various power sources.

Benefits of Blown Air Heating

1. Quick to Heat Up: Blown air systems are known for their speed. As soon as the system is activated, warm air starts to flow into the caravan fairly quickly, making it a great option for quickly warming up the space.
2. Simple to Use: These systems are easy to operate, with straightforward control panels and user-friendly interfaces. The ability to adjust temperature settings is often available at the touch of a button, which makes the system convenient for users of all experience levels.
3. Compact and Lightweight: Blown air heating units are relatively compact, taking up less space compared to other heating systems like wet central heating. Having a heating system that is lightweight makes it more accessible for vehicles to tow caravans if their towing capabilities are limited.
4. Affordable Initial Cost: Blown air heating systems are generally more affordable compared to other heating solutions, particularly wet systems like Alde. You will tend to see the blown air heating systems in budget friendly caravans due to the affordability.
5. Energy Flexibility: The system’s ability to use gas, electricity, or diesel (in campers) provides versatility. You can use whichever fuel source is more accessible, making it easier to adapt to different travel scenarios.
6. Quicker To Cool Down: If you get too hot you can easily turn the heating off and the warm air stops immediately unlike wet heating systems where there is residual heat still in the pipework.
7. Flexibility To Direct Heat: Most vent ducts have caps on them so if you want to direct heat to the rear of the caravan you can block the ducts at the front and leave the rear vents open. We have seen caravaners do this if they want to warm the bedroom up at the rear but keep the lounge area cool.
8. Low Maintenance: With blown air systems there is no ongoing maintenance to carry out unlike wet heating systems where the system needs to be drained and changed every so often.

Disadvantages of Blown Air Heating

1. Less Efficient Heat Distribution: While blown air heating is quick to warm the space, it can also result in uneven heating. The warm air tends to accumulate near the vents, leaving cold spots elsewhere in the caravan. This can be particularly noticeable in larger spaces. For example if the boiler is near the front of the caravan, then you will find it more colder near the rear of the caravan e.g. the washroom if your caravan is an end washroom.
2. Noise: One of the major complaints about blown air heating is the noise produced by the fan. While this is generally not a significant issue during the day, it can be disruptive at night, especially when trying to sleep.
3. Dry Air: Because the system relies on blowing warm air, it can dry out the air inside the caravan. This can lead to discomfort, dry skin, and dry throats, especially for people who are sensitive to dry environments.
4. Requires Maintenance: The fan and ductwork may require periodic cleaning and maintenance to ensure the system operates efficiently. If the ducts become blocked or dirty, the system can struggle to distribute heat effectively.

Alde Wet Central Heating Systems

Alde wet central heating systems are more advanced than blown air systems and are widely regarded for their comfort, efficiency, and even heat distribution. This type of system uses hydronic heating, which involves heating water that circulates through pipes to radiators or heat exchangers throughout the caravan.

How Alde Wet Central Heating Works

In an Alde wet central heating system, a heat exchanger (typically powered by gas or electricity) heats water in a sealed system. This water is then circulated through a network of pipes to radiators or heat exchangers, which radiate the heat into the caravan’s interior.

The system is closed-loop, meaning the water is continuously cycled through the pipes, and the heating elements only lose heat to the air as needed. This means that Alde wet central heating is far more energy-efficient than air-based systems, as it retains heat much longer and distributes it more evenly.

Benefits of Alde Wet Central Heating

1. Even Heat Distribution: Alde systems provide a uniform heat distribution throughout the caravan. The warm water circulates through the pipes and radiators, ensuring that every part of the caravan is heated to the same comfortable temperature. This eliminates the cold spots that are common with blown air heating.
2. Quiet Operation: Unlike blown air systems, Alde heating systems are virtually silent. There are no fans blowing air around, and the only noise you may hear is the gentle hum of the pump circulating the water. This makes the system ideal for those who prioritise peace and quiet, particularly when sleeping.
3. Energy Efficiency: The closed-loop water circulation and the fact that the heat is retained longer makes Alde systems more energy-efficient than blown air systems. You won’t have to keep the heating on as long, and it uses less fuel to maintain a comfortable temperature and the residual heat from the pipes will continue to heat the caravan without the system being on.
4. Comfortable and Cosy Atmosphere: The radiant heat provided by Alde systems creates a more comfortable, cosy atmosphere. The system doesn’t dry out the air in the same way that blown air systems do, which can be beneficial for people with respiratory issues or those who simply prefer a less dry environment.
5. Multiple Fuel Options: Alde systems can run on gas or electricity, offering versatility and flexibility, especially for those who want to use different power sources depending on their location.

Disadvantages of Alde Wet Central Heating

1. Higher Initial Cost: One of the most significant drawbacks of Alde heating is the higher initial cost. These systems are more expensive to purchase and install than blown air systems, which is why you see this type of system in higher end caravans.
2. Complex Installation: Installing an Alde heating system requires professional expertise. The water pipes, radiators, and other components need to be carefully installed, which can add to the installation time and cost. Again, this adds to the overall RRP of the caravan.
3. Slower to Heat Up: Alde systems tend to heat up more slowly than blown air systems. While they provide even heat distribution, it may take longer for the entire caravan to reach the desired temperature compared to a blown air heater as it takes longer to heat the fluid.
4. Weight: The additional components and liquid held onboard in Alde heating systems can add considerable weight to the caravan, which may be a consideration for those concerned about overall weight limits with their current tow vehicle.
5. More Maintenance: Alde Heating has a liquid in the system called Glycol which can be anywhere between a 2 year to 5 year Glycol. This means that the antifreeze within it has a lifespan of 2 years or 5 years. So it is important to change the Glycol to make sure that the fluid in the pipework doesn’t freeze over the winter and burst the pipework. And of course there is a cost to changing the Glycol.
6. Takes Longer To Cool Down: No this can be a benefit as well as a disadvantage. The benefit of this is because it means that when the system is turned off there is still residual heat that is heating the caravan making it energy efficient however, if you get too hot and want the caravan to cool down quickly then unlike blown air where the heating stops immediately, you still have to wait for the fluid within the system to cool which can take time.

Caravans Equipped with Blown Air and Alde Wet Central Heating Systems

Now that we’ve explored the ins and outs of both heating systems, let’s take a look at the types of caravans and motorhomes that commonly feature these systems.

Caravans with Blown Air Heating

Blown air heating is found in a wide range of entry-level to mid-range caravans and motorhomes. Brands like Swift, Bailey, Lunar and Elddis offer caravans with this heating option as standard. You will see a lot of older Coachman models have blown air systems installed however, in recent years Coachman have opted for the Alde heating to fit with their premium brand ethos. Blown air systems are ideal for caravans where speed of heating, affordability, and weight is prioritised.

Caravans with Alde Wet Central Heating

Alde wet central heating systems are typically found in higher-end caravans and motorhome ranges, offering greater luxury, efficiency, and comfort. Manufacturers like Coachman, Swift, Buccaneer, Bailey, Knaus and Adria offer models with Alde heating, often as part of premium packages. These caravans are built for long-term comfort, providing an even heat distribution and a quieter, more energy-efficient solution for those who use their vehicles year-round or in colder climates. If you’ve decided on Alde Heating why not check out these caravans with Alde Heating.

Conclusion

Both blown air heating and Alde wet central heating offer unique advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and preferences. If you value quick warmth, affordability, lightweight and simplicity, a blown air system may be the right choice. However, if you’re after quiet operation, even heat distribution, and higher energy efficiency, Alde wet central heating could be the better option, though it comes at a higher initial cost.

By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of these two systems, as well as the types of caravans that offer them, you can choose the best heating solution for your caravan and ensure a comfortable stay no matter the weather.