Anyone installed a soft start for AC

[andre3k]

I just got my generator interlock installed. I have an 8kw (running watts) generator. Currently I can run both of my ac units on this generator but it bogs the generator down.

I only plan to run one ac unit in emergency situations. These soft starts reduce the starting amperage of the AC unit from 70 amps to around 20 amps.

Has anyone installed or used one?

EasyStart™ 368 Soft Starter

The EasyStart™ soft start motor starter supports 115 & 230V A/C motors & employs a 4-part start ramp sequence that offers the lowest possible start-up current.

www.microair.net

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[no2gates]

I have no idea, but I'm interested as well. Is it possible to adversely affect the compressor by adding it?

 

[smittyb]

I have not installed one, but I have seen one before and after.
It works.
Legit 50% reduction in startup inrush.

 

[no2gates]

I have not installed one, but I have seen one before and after.
It works.
Legit 50% reduction in startup inrush.

Do they help the lifespan of the capacitors also?

 

[andre3k]

I have no idea, but I'm interested as well. Is it possible to adversely affect the compressor by adding it?

I don't think so, from what I've researched, it will probably extend the life of the compressor.

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[Axxe55]

I don't think so, from what I've researched, it will probably extend the life of the compressor.

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from what little i have read in the past they decreasethe strain of the compressor and the electrical motor as well!

 

[TipBledsoe]

Yep, I have used them for years and @Axxe55 and @andre3k are exactly correct.

They suplement your oem capacitor and are super simple to install, as they should have "piggy-back" connectors that you interconnect with the capacitor your unit already has.

 

[Tnhawk]

I've never used a soft start in my home but they are very common in industrial use. I understand they lower the in-rush of current by up to 70%.

 

[no2gates]

I've never used a soft start in my home but they are very common in industrial use. I understand they lower the in-rush of current by up to 70%.

What I don't understand is why don't the manufacturers don't design them into the controller board.

 

[Tnhawk]

What I don't understand is why don't the manufacturers don't design them into the controller board.

$$- additional parts are less profit.

 

[TipBledsoe]

What I don't understand is why don't the manufacturers don't design them into the controller board.

I'd say that the main reason is that the stock capacitor is the nominal appropriate size (Farads) - the manufacturers wouldn't "over-design" it with larger capacitance because it would add cost and reduce future service call profits for the HVAC companies.

Also of consideration is the size of the soft start capacitor being about the same as the oem capacitor (about that of a beer can), it must be seperate from the controller board - installed, it usually just hangs from the oem capacitor and maybe gets zip tied to something.

 

[Brains]

Check out this facebook group. It started in my old 'hood but has quickly expanded beyond Cypress. It's all about using a portable generator to run your entire house. Lots of very good info there, with tested and proven methodologies, well vetted electricians and plumbers, manufacturers of soft start kits, parts lists, how-to's, etc.

Generators: portable generators to power entire house

 

[ZX9RCAM]

They require joining to see.

 

[Davetex]

I installed one of those Easy Starts about 3 years ago, it works perfectly. Installed it at the same time the generator interlock was installed.
Verified the reduced starting amps with the volt meter. Money well spent!!!

 

[Brains]

They require joining to see.

If you're interested, it's worth joining.

 

[andre3k]

Check out this facebook group. It started in my old 'hood but has quickly expanded beyond Cypress. It's all about using a portable generator to run your entire house. Lots of very good info there, with tested and proven methodologies, well vetted electricians and plumbers, manufacturers of soft start kits, parts lists, how-to's, etc.

Generators: portable generators to power entire house

I joined, very informative group. Seems like the admins are on top of things, unlike a lot of FB groups.

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[ZX9RCAM]

If you're interested, it's worth joining.

Except I don't do Facebook.

 

[pronstar]

i’ve got a genny rated similarly to OP.

Had a soft start cap installed on my old unit.

Getting one installed on my new unit as soon as my AC guy has time…i’d imagine he’s staying pretty busy in the heat we’ve been having.

I totally forgot to have the cap installed when i had the unit installed.

 

[Brains]

Except I don't do Facebook.

Then the group isn't for you.

 

[andre3k]

Those duromaxx tri-fuel generators seem to be popular in that group. You can get the 13kw gas only generator for $900 shipped on ebay now. The tri-fuel option is double the cost, but still a good deal.

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