SOLVING the Winnebago FLX Truma Varioheat W 27 H Error code ⚠️

[@livingwithrob]

Since we began using heat in our 2108DS FLX Winnebago, we've been getting the W 27 H! advisory telling us the unit is running hot and has entered into a cool down mode. While Truma says it's alright, but not ideal, I decided to deploy this fix. At this time, we have called for heat a few times in the early morning and since installing the passive vent, we aren't getting any error. Time will tell, but maybe this quick inexpensive attempt made the difference. I guess when/if we get back to super frigid cold we shall see if it still is resolved. ⚠****Update 03-23-2024****⚠ We did in fact fun into colder weather. The W 27 H! Advisory error did return. So, this did not fix the problem. HOWEVER, I have in fact noticed there is a pull of air through the passive vent toward the Truma Vario-heat while it's running. This tells me that while this unit does in fact go into cool down mode still, it is pulling return air out of the rig while heating and is circulating the air better. Still would do this mod based on better air distribution.

[@ChipMiller-o4m]

I added a circular vent below the refrigerator, beside the propane heater to help with air flow. Hot air from the furnace is basically in the same place like your heater below refrigerator. The furnace also has duct work going into and below floor to help heat that area with the holding tanks. Have tank heating pads as well. Overall I’m very happy with my 1708FB unit. Looking forward to seeing your solar set up. I am currently working on adding additional solar to my trailer.

[@ChipMiller-o4m]

Air flow is very important for many reasons. Dry air to help keep humidity down😊

[@livingwithrob]

Yes, the non FLX models do a MUCH better job with heat and dispersing air flow. In particular I do not like how these FLX units have only 1 heat output and nothing going below floor to underbelly.

[@ChipMiller-o4m]

@@livingwithrob 👍I didn’t know that. This is another design element that has been revealed between the Winnebago line of Micro Minnies since I purchased mine in 2021. Regardless of which type of heat or size of the trailer, I would think the basic concept for heat and airflow would be integrated into the design to get optimum performance. I enjoy your watching your videos 😊

[@livingwithrob]

@@ChipMiller-o4m this is one major difference, yes. Thank you. We appreciate you watching.

[@tombodet7918]

Might be a good place to mount a 12v computer style fan to draw the hot air out?

[@don0fthedead]

Sound logic and good work, Rob. My wife and I have a 2108 FLX model. Shortly after our purchase of the model in early '22, I had replaced the below shower cover with a vent with thumb screws for easy on/off because we had issues with the shower leaking due to poor seals. Complete happenstance that it probably helped us avert the same error code. This probably isn't an issue for you since you avoid hot areas, but we've run into the issue of the fridge not cooling as well as it should. We don't use the trailer as often as we'd like, but when we do, it's typically in hotter months (and we're in the south). It may take several days for the fridge/freezer to finally reach what I'd call acceptable temperatures. I get the feeling it's due to a similar issue (as far as I can tell, there are no vents to let the heat exchange occur with the fridge on our FLX model). I've of course checked all the usual suspects (e.g., fan issues, venting within the freezer/fridge being blocked, etc.). Interested to hear if you've got any cents on this.

[@livingwithrob]

Thanks for watching. The only issue we have had with our fridge is that it has dead spots and we end up freezing various items when it's set to run cold enough that the milk won't spoil. When I ran the 12V wiring up the wall to fish it to the compartment where my Starlink modifications to 12v are housed, we had to take the fridge out. In doing so, I had considered how that space provides very little air flow for the back end of the fridge, meaning, in my view, that compressor will get hotter than it should. Perhaps this is the reason for premature failure of these 12v style fridges about which I've read. I do think figuring out a way in which to get some fresh air back there would be well advised and in fact, I think I am going to consider how to do so. I am open to suggestions from everyone and would of course produce a video on the project! 🙂

[@tombodet7918]

Common sense approach and solution. Crazy that the factory didn't do that, especially when there is an inspection cover available that could be so easily replaced with a register. Good job.

[@livingwithrob]

Thanks Tom. After all the work, I do still get the error message, however it's less so now. I will say, though, the unit does draw air through this vent now. I can fell it pulling air in through the vent when the Vario Heat is on. It will pull and hold a tissue against it when running, so...in the end...I maintain...still a poor design, but I get better air flow now.

[@byronargueta1026]

Love it!! Subscribed .

[@livingwithrob]

Thank you.

[@FilmPro09]

It looks like there was already an air gap underneath the furnace access panel that was open to the space that the furnace was installed so it should’ve drawn air from there already correct? Maybe I couldn’t see it all so I could be wrong. At any rate, the return being farther away should at least help circulate and provide some more heat exchange. Hopefully this helped! I have the same issue on my furnace, but on a much different travel trailer. Did it fix your issue? Good luck on all your adventures and safe travels! *so sorry I read your update after I typed this. Glad it was still a good mod for you!*

[@livingwithrob]

Thanks for watching. I appreciate it. It did help some, yes. But that design, with one heat output...really and truly ineffective and not well thought through.