Truma Saphir Compact Air Conditioning System
Installation and Operating Instructions
Product Overview
The Truma Saphir compact is an air conditioning system designed for installation in motor homes and caravans, providing climate control for living spaces. This document provides comprehensive instructions for installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Safety Instructions
⚠️ The device must only be installed and repaired by an expert. Read the installation instructions carefully before commencing work and comply with them.
⚠️ Repairs may only be carried out by an expert!
ℹ️ Note containing information and tips.
To avoid transportation damage, the device may only be dispatched if the Truma Service Centre has been consulted beforehand.
The power supply must be disconnected from the mains (all poles) before opening the housing.
The 230 V, T 5A H-type (slow, IEC 127) device fuse can be found on the electronic control unit and must always be replaced with an identical fuse.
The device fuses and connection cables must only be replaced by experts.
Guarantee claims, warranty claims, and acceptance of liability will be ruled out in the event of:
- Modifications to the device (including accessories)
- Failure to use original Truma parts as replacement parts and accessories
- Failure to follow the installation and operating instructions
This may also invalidate the device operating permit, which in many countries also denotes cancellation of the vehicle operating permit.
The refrigerant circuit contains R 407C refrigerant and must only be opened in the factory.
The cold air outlet and the circulated air intake must not be obstructed under any circumstances. This is essential to ensure correct operation.
⚠️ When cleaning the vehicle floor, ensure no water penetrates the device openings when using a high-pressure cleaner.
⚠️ Openings beneath the vehicle floor must be kept clear of dirt and slush, and protected from wheel spray.
⚠️ If underbody protection is applied, cover all openings beneath the vehicle to prevent spray mist penetration.
⚠️ To avoid compressor damage, avoid driving on slopes exceeding 8% incline while the device is operating.
⚠️ Do not operate in cooling mode for extended periods with the vehicle at an angle, as condensation may not drain correctly.
⚠️ Use only power supply sources with a purely sinusoidal waveform (e.g., voltage converter, generator) without voltage peaks.
Notes on using air conditioning systems:
- We recommend a dynamo with an output of at least 120 Ah for operation while driving.
- The Saphir compact is designed for minimal power consumption. Check campsite fuse protection (min. 3 A) before use.
- Park the vehicle in the shade if possible.
- Darkening with shutters or a canopy reduces heat radiation.
- Clean your roof regularly.
- Ventilate the vehicle properly before starting the equipment to remove accumulated warm air.
- Ensure adequate openings for supply air when fitting aprons; the warm outgoing air opening should not be at the inlet side.
- Maintain a moderate difference between inside and outside temperatures for a healthy room climate.
- Keep all doors and windows closed when in cooling mode.
Operating Instructions
Always observe the operating instructions and "Safety instructions" prior to starting. The vehicle owner is responsible for correct operation.
Remote Control
The symbols in the display are visible depending on the settings.
Diagram: Remote Control Layout
A diagram shows the remote control with the following labeled elements:
- Display area showing symbols for Cooling (❄️), Sleep (?), Fan level (?️), Time (?), and temperature/mode indicators.
- Buttons: On / Off switch, Temperature selection (+/-), Mode, Fan level, Timer ON/OFF, Time setting, Reset, Resend, Setup (☀️).
- Mode: Selects operating mode (Cooling, Circulated Air).
- Fan level: Selects fan speed (low, medium, high).
- Sleep function: (Cooling mode only) Reduces fan speed for quiet operation.
- Timer OFF: Sets switch-off time up to 24 hours in advance.
- Time setting: Sets clock time and timer.
- Resend: Retransmits data.
- Reset: Resets remote to factory settings.
- Setup: Tunes remote to the IR receiver.
Start-up:
Before switching on, check campsite power supply fusing (min. 3 A). Fully unwind cable drums. Point remote control at the IR receiver. Tune the remote control to the IR receiver by inserting batteries, holding the Setup button until the IR receiver's red LED flashes, then releasing it.
Switching on:
Use the "On / Off switch" on the remote. The circulated air fan runs immediately; the compressor starts within 3 minutes, indicated by a flashing green LED.
Temperature:
Use "Temperature selection buttons" (+/-) to set the desired room temperature.
Mode:
Press the "MODE" button to select Cooling or Circulated Air. In cooling mode, the compressor switches off when the set temperature is reached, but the fan continues. The device automatically reverts to cooling if the temperature rises.
In circulated air mode, interior air is recirculated and filtered; no LEDs illuminate.
Fan:
Use the "Fan level" button to select low, medium, or high fan speed.
Sleep function:
In "Sleep function", both internal and external fans operate at slow speed for quietness.
Switching off:
Press the "On / Off switch". The device and remote switch off. When switched on again, the green LED flashes, the fan runs, and the compressor starts within 3 minutes.
Time:
Press "Time selection button" and use "Time setting" buttons to set the current time. The time must be reset after battery changes or synchronization.
Timer OFF:
Set switch-off time from 15 minutes to 24 hours. The device must be switched on to program. Confirm with TIMER OFF. Pressing again deactivates the timer.
Reset:
Resets remote control to factory settings (Circulated air, low fan, no timer).
Resend:
Resends previous settings.
Setup:
Tunes the remote control to the air conditioning system.
IR receiver and manual on / off:
A pushbutton (m) on the receiver allows manual switching on/off. If switched on this way, the system resets to factory settings (cooling, high fan, 21°C).
Function Indicator
LED 1 (Green):
- Illuminates: Cooling mode.
- Flashes: Circulated air fan running, compressor starting within 3 minutes.
- Flashes briefly (with power inverter): Wait for engine start or remote control function change.
LED 2 (Red):
- Flashes: Data transfer in progress or power supply connecting.
- Illuminates: Fault.
If the red LED illuminates, switch the device off, wait, and switch on again. If the fault persists, contact Truma Service.
Maintenance
The device has a fluff filter (n) and a particle filter (p) at the front.
Diagram: Filter Locations
A diagram shows the front of the unit with filters labeled 'n' and 'p'.
- Fluff filter (n): Clean at least twice annually; replace if required (part no. 40090-64600).
- Particle filter (p): Replace annually at the start of the season (part no. 40090-58100).
Remove cold air ducts before replacing filters. Pull fluff filter forward and remove from above. Remove particle filter from the front.
⚠️ Ensure the condensation drain is clear of dirt and debris to prevent water penetration.
Troubleshooting
Check 230V power supply, fuses, and circuit breakers.
| Fault | Cause / Remedy |
|---|---|
| Device not cooling | Thawing process in progress; wait for completion. Set temperature on remote control to less than room temperature. |
| Device providing insufficient cooling or no cooling at all | Filters soiled; change filters. External air routes soiled or blocked; clear them. |
| Moisture at cold air ducts | High air humidity; close windows/doors, select high fan level. |
| Remote control not working | Check/replace batteries. |
| Device not reacting to remote control commands | Check for obstructions between remote and IR receiver. Tune remote control to IR receiver. |
If faults persist, contact Truma Service.
IR remote control battery change:
Use only leak-proof micro-batteries (LR 3, AM4, AAA, MN 2400 - 1.5 V). The battery compartment is on the rear of the remote. Ensure correct polarity.
Diagram: Battery Compartment
A diagram shows the rear of the remote control with battery slots and polarity markings.
⚠️ Empty batteries can leak and damage the remote. Remove batteries if not in use for a long period.
Tuning is retained when batteries are removed. No warranty for damage from leaking batteries.
Disposal
Dispose of defective remote controls by removing batteries first. Dispose of the device according to national administrative regulations.
Accessories
Sound muffler: For cold air duct, reduces noise (part no. 40040-60100).
Air outlet channel: For noise reduction outside living compartment (part no. 40040-32500).
Diagrams: Accessories
- Fig. 7: Sound muffler.
- Fig. 8: Air outlet channel.
- Fig. 9: Flexible air conditioning intake (part no. 40090-59100) prevents contaminated air intake.
- Fig. 10: TG 1000 sinus power inverter for 230V operation from 12V battery (part no. 40090-81000). Wiring looms also available.
Truma CP plus digital control panel: For iNet-capable heaters and air conditioning systems (Aventa eco/comfort, Saphir comfort RC/compact).
Truma iNet Box: For networking and control via smartphone/tablet app. Simple installation and start-up. Can be extended with update function.
Diagrams: Control Panel & iNet Box
- Figure 11: Truma CP plus digital control panel.
- Figure 12: Truma iNet Box.
Operation with TG 1000 Sinus Power Inverter
Requires electrical kit (part no. 40090-23100) and air conditioning kit (40090-25900).
The inverter is controlled by the air conditioning electronics, which monitor power inverter status and connected supply (dynamo, battery, mains).
Operating Status 1: Auxiliary Battery (12V, engine off)
- System starts if auxiliary battery voltage > 12V.
- Only circulated air fan mode available (low/high fan).
- If voltage < 12V, red LED illuminates, system does not start. Requires recharge.
- If voltage drops below 10.8V during operation, system switches off to protect battery. No red LED. Requires recharge.
- System switches off if mains voltage is applied.
Operating Status 2: Dynamo (12V, engine running)
- Auxiliary and starter batteries parallel via isolating relay (actuated by D+).
- Full air conditioning functionality available.
- System restarts with previous settings when vehicle is started again (controlled by D+ signal).
- Tip: Switch off electrical consumers (e.g., refrigerator) to limit dynamo charge current.
- System and inverter switch off when engine is off. Green LED flashes briefly.
- If starter battery voltage < 11.7V or auxiliary battery < 10.8V, system switches off. No red LED. Requires recharge.
- System and inverter switch off when mains voltage is applied. Red LED illuminates; system must be switched on again via remote.
Operating Status 3: Mains (230V~)
- 230V mains passes through the power inverter (connector 'a' to 'c'). Inverter remains off.
- Any cooling level can be used.
Diagram: Power Inverter Connections
A diagram shows connectors 'a' and 'c' on the power inverter.
The air conditioning system with power inverter switches off in cases of:
- Mains failure.
- Mains input voltage connector 'a' disconnected.
Red LED illuminates; system must be switched on again via remote. If mains fails, the power inverter does not automatically switch on again.
Technical Data
Designation: Saphir compact, comfort air conditioning system
Dimensions (L x W x H): 560 x 400 x 290 mm
Weight: 20 kg
Power supply: 230 V - 240 V~, 50 Hz
Maximum cooling power: 1800 W
Starting current: 15 A (150 ms)
Power consumption: 2.8 A
Protection class: IP X5 (when installed)
Volume flow (cold air): max. 310 m³/h
Refrigerant: R 407C / 0.39 kg (Contains fluorinated greenhouse gases)
Global warming potential (GWP): 1774
CO2 equivalent: 691.9 kg
Maximum incline of vehicle during operation: 8 %
Usage limits: +16 °C to +40 °C.
- Interior air sensor prevents operation below +16 °C.
- Anti-freeze sensor prevents ice formation on evaporator coil.
- Temperature switch prevents excessive current and temperature at the compressor.
CE E24 10R-040991
Function diagram:
A diagram illustrates the airflow through the system: Supply air intake from outside -> Condenser -> Compressor -> Fan -> Evaporator -> Fan -> Filters -> Throttle -> Cold air outlet. Circulated air intake from inside is shown.
Installation dimensions:
Dimensions are in mm. A diagram shows the unit's external dimensions with labels for LA (supply air outlet), LE (supply air intake), KO (condensation drain), and HW (height/width).
Truma Manufacturer's Warranty
1. Warranty claims
Truma warrants against material or production faults for 24 months from purchase. Statutory warranty claims also apply.
Warranty is void if:
- Consumable parts are used.
- Non-original Truma parts are used.
- Damage occurs due to foreign substances in gas systems.
- Installation or operating instructions are not followed.
- Improper handling or transport packing occurs.
2. Scope of warranty
Covers defects within 24 months. Truma will repair or replace defective items. The warranty period does not restart for repaired/replaced parts. No further claims (e.g., damage claims) are permitted, except as provided by German Product Liability Act.
Truma covers costs for Customer Service work within Germany (transport, labor, materials). Work outside Germany is not covered.
Additional costs for complex installations (e.g., dismantling furnishings) are not covered.
3. Making a claim under warranty
Manufacturer's address: Truma Gerätetechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Wernher-von-Braun-Straße 12, 85640 Putzbrunn, Germany.
Contact Truma Service Centre or authorized partners (see www.truma.com). Provide detailed claim, serial number, and purchase date.
End user must send the unit to Truma or service partner at their own risk for assessment. Gas pressure regulators must be returned with the unit if heat exchanger is damaged.
Air conditioning systems: To avoid transport damage, send to Truma Service Centre Germany or authorized partner by prior arrangement. Sender bears risk for any transport damage otherwise.
Ship as freight item. If claim is covered, Truma covers return shipping. If not covered, customer pays for repairs and shipping.
Installation Instructions
⚠️ The device must only be installed and repaired by an expert. Read the installation instructions carefully before commencing the work, and then comply with them!
Intended use: Designed for installation in motor homes and caravans for private sector use.
Regulations: Guarantee claims are void if modifications are made, non-original parts are used, or installation/operating instructions are not followed.
Selecting a location
Install the device for easy access for service and removal.
Ensure sufficient cable length for pulling out the device if installation space is restricted.
Diagram: Installation Space Clearance
A diagram shows minimum clearances: 790 mm (length), 290 mm (width), 440 mm (height), with specific front/side/rear clearances (200 mm front, 20 mm sides, 30 mm rear).
Install in a central location for homogeneous cooling. The floor must be level and smooth. Additional gaskets may be needed for channelled floors.
The system draws in room air via openings totaling 300 cm². Ensure air drawn is from the vehicle interior, not external spaces, to prevent performance degradation.
Position the device so the vehicle frame is between the air inlet (LE) and outlet (LA).
Use the installation template to check space and mark mounting holes for brackets.
⚠️ Ensure the condensation drain connection (11) is correctly positioned in the floor recess to prevent water penetration. Apertures must be aligned for correct operation.
Installing the air conditioning system
Place installation template and mark mounting holes for brackets.
Diagram: Mounting Hole Marking
A diagram shows the unit and indicates mounting hole positions for brackets (2, 3) and the condensation drain connection (11), with a 50 mm diameter hole for the drain.
Mark floor openings: LE (supply air intake), LA (supply air outlet), KO (condensation drain).
⚠️ Before drilling, check for concealed cables, gas lines, or frame sections.
Seal opening edges with underbody protection.
Attach side fastening brackets (3) and main brackets (2 - leg outwards).
Insert condensation drain connection (11) and seal it.
Diagram: Clamping Strap Installation
A diagram shows the unit being secured in the stowage compartment using a clamping strap (4) through brackets (3) and buckle (6).
⚠️ The system must be secured at all sides to prevent movement during vigorous vehicle maneuvers.
Attach floor grilles (5) for LE and LA from below.
Cold air distribution and circulated air return
Cold air distribution:
Connect at least one KR 65 cold air duct (diameter 65 mm, 10) to each of the three cold air outlets (7, 8, 9).
Route ducts straight and as short as possible. Total duct length max. 15 m. Connect longest duct (max. 8m) to right-hand outlet (9) for highest throughput.
Avoid routing ducts near outside air inlets or behind the refrigerator to prevent condensation.
Optional sound muffler available (part no. 40040-60100).
Suitable air outlets include SCW 2, EN-O, or RL.
Circulated air return
Circulated air is drawn in via a rectangular air grille (1) or round air grilles (part no. 40040-20400) or small openings (total area 300 cm²).
Important note: Ventilation from the vehicle interior to the installation area must be in the immediate vicinity for perfect air exchange. Use covers if necessary to prevent obstruction by stowed objects.
A flexible room air intake accessory is available (part no. 40090-59100) if close proximity is not possible.
Installing the IR receiver
Mount receiver (12) preferably to a wardrobe for unobstructed remote control pointing (3m cable length). A 3m extension cable is available.
If flush-mounting is not possible, an on-surface frame (13) is available.
Diagram: IR Receiver Mounting
A diagram shows drilling a 55mm hole, leading the cable (17) through, securing the receiver (12) with screws (14), fitting cover frame (15), and routing the cable.
230 V electrical connection and connection of IR receiver:
⚠️ The 230V electrical connection must be made by an expert (e.g., VDE 0100, IEC 60364-7-721). These instructions are for expert information only.
Connect to mains via the 150cm cable (20) to a line protected by a 10A fuse.
Observe correct cable colours.
Diagram: Electrical Connections
A diagram shows connector (20) for mains, socket (19) for IR receiver cable (17), and connection (18) for TG 1000 sinus power inverter communication.
Ensure cables are long enough and secured with clamps.
An insulating device for all-pole insulation with at least 3.5mm contact clearance must be provided at the vehicle end for maintenance and repair.
Function test / IR remote control mounting
Position the IR remote control mounting near the IR receiver (12).
Test all device functions as described in the operating instructions.
Hand over the operating instructions to the vehicle owner.
