
APU units for semi trucks are a crucial investment for any owner-operator or fleet manager. They provide a reliable source of power for essential systems, like refrigeration units and communication equipment.
A well-maintained APU can increase the overall efficiency of your truck, saving you money on fuel and reducing downtime. APU units for semi trucks are available in various sizes and configurations to suit different needs.
Semi-truck APU units typically range from 2 to 10 kilowatts, with some models offering up to 12 kilowatts of power. This allows you to choose the right size for your specific application.
Proper installation and maintenance of your APU unit is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
APU Options
If you're in the market for an APU unit for your semi truck, you've got options. Thermo King offers a range of APUs that cater to different needs and preferences.
The TriPac Evolution APU is a top choice among drivers, providing limitless sleeper cab heating and air conditioning while reducing tractor idling and upkeep costs. This means you'll save on gas consumption and maintenance.

The TriPac Envidia APU is a clean and dependable all-electric powered option that offers unrivaled driver comfort. It boasts the longest all-electric powered runtime in the industry, with superior battery life.
Whether you're looking for a diesel or all-electric powered APU, Thermo King has got you covered. Their APUs are designed to provide maximum comfort and performance.
Here are some key features to consider when choosing your APU unit:
- Longest electric runtime in the industry without tractor startup (TriPac Envidia)
- Effective heating and cooling for maximum comfort (TriPac Evolution and Envidia)
- The power to run devices that make the sleeper cab feel more like home (TriPac Envidia)
- Quiet operation for uninterrupted rest (TriPac Envidia)
APU Types
There are several types of APU units for semi trucks, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits.
The most common type of APU is the diesel-powered unit, which can provide up to 17,000 watts of power.
Diesel-powered APUs are often preferred by truckers due to their reliability and long lifespan.
They are also relatively quiet and produce fewer emissions compared to other types of APUs.
Gas-powered APUs are another option, which can provide up to 15,000 watts of power.
However, they are generally less reliable than diesel-powered APUs and require more maintenance.
Electric APUs are also available, which can provide up to 12,000 watts of power and are environmentally friendly.
They are often used in urban areas where noise pollution is a concern.
Hybrid APUs combine diesel and electric power to provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly option.
They can provide up to 20,000 watts of power and are becoming increasingly popular among truckers.
Diesel APUs
Diesel APUs are a game-changer for semi-truck owners and operators. They provide significant fuel savings by eliminating idling, which can be a major expense.
You can expect to save money on fuel, as well as reduce your carbon footprint. The TriPac EVOLUTION DIESEL APU, for example, can help you achieve these savings.
One of the key benefits of diesel APUs is the ability to power extra appliances, giving you a comfortable and home-like experience on the road. The Aspen Diesel Auxiliary Power Unit, from Carrier Transicold, provides this feature, along with cooling, heating, and more.
Another advantage of diesel APUs is reduced maintenance. The TriPac EVOLUTION DIESEL APU, for instance, has a 2000-hour maintenance interval, which can save you time and money.
Here are some key features to consider when choosing a diesel APU:
- Significant fuel savings
- Heating, cooling, and power for extra appliances
- Reduced maintenance
- Unmatched service and support
By choosing the right diesel APU, you can increase profitability and enjoy a more comfortable driving experience.
Electric APUs
Electric APUs are a game-changer for semi-truck drivers, providing a comfortable and emissions-free experience. They're a great option for fleets looking to reduce fuel costs and minimize maintenance expenses.
The ComfortPro Electric APU, for example, offers quiet, engineless air conditioning, perfect for keeping drivers cool during breaks and rest periods. It's also low maintenance, with a quick-charging AGM battery system that's easy to manage.
Here are some key benefits of electric APUs:
- Up to 11 hours runtime with comfort monitor
- Low Maintenance system
- Quiet, engineless air conditioning
- Quick-charging AGM batteries
- Customizable capabilities for heating, power and more
- Compatible with shore power
The ComfortPro Lithium Ion Electric APU takes it to the next level, offering significantly longer runtime and battery life compared to conventional electric APUs. It's powered by advanced Li-ion batteries that charge faster and experience less power degradation over time.
With its proprietary power-management technology, the ComfortPro Lithium Ion Electric APU achieves an impressive 17 hours of continuous air conditioning under certain real-world conditions. That's double the runtime of some competitive models and 50% more runtime than the AGM-battery model, while trimming APU weight by 26%.
Choosing an APU
When choosing an APU for your semi truck, consider the TriPac model options available. Our newest diesel TriPac APU reduces emissions and monitors unit performance.
APU models vary, and it's essential to choose one that fits your needs. The TriPac APU provides comfort and performance, making it a popular choice.
The TriPac APU also increases profitability, which is a significant advantage for truckers.
Choose Your Tripac Model
Our newest diesel TriPac APU offers the same comfort and performance as previous models, but with enhancements to reduce emissions.
The diesel TriPac APU is a great choice for those who want to minimize their environmental impact.
This model provides the same comfort and performance our APUs are known for, plus enhancements to reduce emissions.
Reducing emissions is a key benefit of the diesel TriPac APU, making it a more eco-friendly option.
You can also choose from other TriPac models that offer a range of features and benefits.
Each TriPac model is designed to provide a unique combination of comfort, performance, and profitability.
Our APUs are designed to increase profitability, and the TriPac model is no exception.
By choosing the right TriPac model, you can enjoy improved performance and reduced emissions.
The TriPac model is a popular choice among those who want a reliable and efficient APU.
What Is an APU for Heavy Truck Drivers?
An APU, or Auxiliary Power Unit, is a separate power source for heavy truck drivers. It's a compact generator that can run independently of the truck's main engine.
APUs are designed to provide power for essential systems like air conditioning, refrigeration, and lighting, which are often used during extended periods of idling. This can save fuel and reduce wear on the main engine.
Most APUs have a small diesel engine that can run for several hours on a single tank of fuel. They're usually installed in the cab of the truck, near the driver's seat.
APUs can also provide power for other devices like laptops, phones, and tablets, keeping drivers connected and productive on the road. This can be a big advantage for drivers who need to stay in touch with dispatch or manage their routes.
The cost of an APU varies depending on the size and type, but it's generally a significant investment for truck drivers.
Benefits and Features
Cost savings and equipment longevity are just two of the many benefits of using an APU unit for your semi-truck. Idling is expensive, burning fuel and increasing wear on the truck, but an APU can help you avoid both.
Easier compliance with state laws is another advantage of APUs. Many states have laws against idling, and an APU can help you avoid fines and penalties.
APUs also increase comfort for drivers, allowing them to access amenities like air conditioning and electronics freely. This makes a night in a truck much more enjoyable.
Here are some key benefits of APUs for semi-trucks:
- Cost savings: Avoid burning extra fuel and reduce wear on the truck.
- Easier compliance: Avoid fines and penalties by following state laws.
- Increased comfort: Access amenities like air conditioning and electronics freely.
Benefits of Semi-Trucks
Semi-trucks offer numerous benefits that make them an essential tool for transportation and logistics. With the right features, you can enjoy a more comfortable and efficient ride.
One of the biggest advantages of semi-trucks is their ability to provide power on the go. A semi-truck APU (auxiliary power unit) works like a power generator, supplying the power needed for functions like heating, cooling, and electricity without running the truck on idle.
Idling can be expensive and increase wear on the truck, but an APU allows you to avoid burning extra fuel and keep your rig in top shape for longer. This can lead to significant cost savings and equipment longevity.
Easier compliance with state laws is another benefit of APUs. Many states have laws against idling, so an APU can make it easier to avoid fines and other penalties.
APUs also increase comfort by allowing drivers to access amenities like air conditioning and electronics freely. This makes a night in a truck much more enjoyable.

Some semi-trucks also come equipped with an Air Tower, which improves temperature management and increases driver comfort by reducing APU run time by up to 22%.
Here are some of the advantages of semi-trucks with APUs:
- Cost savings and equipment longevity
- Easier compliance with state laws
- Increased comfort for drivers
Overall, the benefits of semi-trucks with APUs make them a valuable investment for transportation and logistics companies.
Unmatched Support
When you're on the road, a reliable APU can be a lifesaver. The TriPac APU has the support of the nationwide Thermo King dealer network, which means you can count on expert installation from factory-certified technicians.
You'll have access to genuine OEM parts, and with nearly 200 locations across North America, you're never far from help. Raney's also offers high-quality semi-truck APUs and a support staff that's happy to assist you in finding the right one.
Their products offer valuable peace of mind, and they'll ship out your semi-truck APU quickly so you can start enjoying a more comfortable truck. Whether you're on a long haul or a short trip, having a reliable APU can make all the difference.
Here are some benefits of the unmatched support you can expect:
- Expert installation
- Factory-certified technicians
- TriPac parts and service
- Genuine OEM parts
- Nearly 200 locations across North America
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an APU cost for a semi-truck?
APU costs for a semi-truck range from $8,500 to $13,000, including installation, and vary depending on the size that fits within your truck's frame.
Is an APU worth it for a truck?
An APU can save you money on fuel by reducing consumption by up to 80% compared to idling a truck's main engine. Consider installing an APU if you spend a lot of time waiting in traffic or at job sites
How much fuel does an APU use in 10 hours?
An APU uses 2.5 gallons of fuel in 10 hours. This is in addition to your daily fuel usage.
Does APU keep the engine warm?
Yes, the APU keeps the engine warm when the truck is not in use. This helps maintain engine performance and prevents it from getting too cold.
Sources
- https://www.sonsrayfleetservices.com/cold-chain-products/thermo-king/apu/
- https://www.gerrystrucks.com/what-is-an-apu-and-why-would-a-heavy-truck-driver-want-one/
- https://www.crowstruck.com/auxilary-power-units-apus/
- https://www.thermoking.com/na/en/road/auxiliary-power-units.html
- https://www.raneystruckparts.com/auxiliary-power-units/
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