Soft Start for RV AC: Everything You Need to Know
A soft start is a fantastic addition to your RV air conditioning system, especially if you’re in situations where you don’t have much power available. Whether you’re boondocking, moochdocking or relying on a generator, a soft start can help reduce the initial surge of power required to start your air conditioner, which can be a game-changer.
When you’re boondocking, you’re likely relying on a generator or solar panels to power your RV. A soft start can help reduce the initial surge of power required to start your AC unit, which can help extend the runtime of your generator or make the most of your solar power. This is particularly useful when the weather is hot and you need to run your AC unit frequently.
Similarly, when you’re using a generator to power your RV, a soft start can be a lifesaver. Generators can struggle to handle the initial surge of power required to start an air conditioner, which can cause them to stall or trip the circuit breaker. By reducing the inrush current, a soft start can help prevent these issues and ensure that your generator runs smoothly.
And let’s not forget about the energy savings! By reducing the power surge, a soft start helps to reduce the amount of energy required to start your AC unit. This not only reduces the strain on your RV’s electrical system but also helps to save energy and lower energy costs. Over time, the energy savings can add up, making a soft start a smart investment for any RV owner.
So, if you’re looking for a way to improve the performance and reliability of your RV air conditioning system, a soft start is definitely worth considering. It can help extend the lifespan of your AC unit, prevent damage to your RV’s electrical system, and save you money on energy costs. Plus, it’s easy to install and use, making it a great addition to any RV owner’s toolkit.
What is a Soft Start for RV AC?
A soft start is an electrical device that helps to reduce the amount of power needed to start an RV air conditioner. It is a small device that is installed in the RV’s air conditioning system and helps to reduce the amount of power needed to start the compressor. This, in turn, reduces the amount of strain on the RV’s electrical system and can help to prevent damage to the air conditioning system.
The soft start device works by limiting the amount of current that flows to the compressor during startup. This allows the compressor to start more easily and reduces the amount of power needed to start the system. Once the compressor is running, the soft start device allows the full amount of power to flow to the compressor, so the air conditioner can operate normally.
One of the main benefits of a soft start device is that it can help to prevent damage to the RV’s electrical system. When an air conditioner starts up, it can draw a large amount of power from the RV’s electrical system. This can cause voltage drops and other electrical problems, which can damage the RV’s electrical system over time. By reducing the amount of power needed to start the air conditioner, a soft start device can help to prevent these problems from occurring.
Benefits of Using a Soft Start for RV AC
Reduced Power Surge
One of the primary benefits of using a Softstart for RV AC is that it reduces the power surge that occurs when the AC unit is turned on. Without a soft start, the AC unit draws a large amount of power at once, which can cause problems for the RV’s electrical system. The power surge can trip the circuit breaker or damage the electrical components of the RV. A soft start helps to reduce the power surge by gradually ramping up the voltage and current to the AC unit. This not only protects the RV’s electrical system but also ensures that the AC unit starts up smoothly and quietly.
Increased Lifespan of any RV Air Conditioner
Another benefit of using a soft start for RV AC is that it can increase the lifespan of the AC unit. The power surge that occurs when the AC unit is turned on can cause stress on the compressor and other components of the AC unit. Over time, this stress can lead to premature wear and tear on the AC unit, which can result in costly repairs or replacement. By reducing the power surge, a soft start helps to protect the AC unit and extend its lifespan. This means that RV owners can enjoy cool, comfortable air for longer without having to worry about costly repairs or replacements.
Energy Efficiency
Finally, using a soft start for RV AC can also improve energy efficiency. The power surge that occurs when the AC unit is turned on not only stresses the AC unit but also requires a large amount of energy. By reducing the power surge, a soft start helps to reduce the amount of energy required to start the AC unit. This not only reduces the strain on the RV’s electrical system but also helps to save energy and lower energy costs. Over time, the energy savings can add up, making a soft start a smart investment for RV owners who want to save money and reduce their environmental impact.
Why Soft Starts Are A Necessity for Boondocking
Boondocking, also known as dry camping, refers to camping in an area without any hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. Boondocking is a popular activity among RV enthusiasts, but it can also be a challenging experience when it comes to power management. A soft start device for RV AC can be a great addition for boondocking for several reasons.
Firstly, when boondocking, you are likely to rely on a generator or solar panels to power your RV. A soft start device can help reduce the initial surge of power required to start the AC unit, which can help extend the runtime of your generator or make the most of your solar power. This can be particularly useful when the weather is hot and you need to run the AC unit frequently.
Secondly, when boondocking, you may be sharing the limited power supply with other appliances in your RV. A soft start device can help reduce the amount of power needed to start the AC unit, which can prevent tripping of the circuit breaker and ensure that other appliances connected to the same circuit do not lose power. This can be particularly important when you have limited power available and need to conserve it as much as possible.
In conclusion, a soft start device for RV AC can be a great addition for boondocking, as it can help maximize the efficiency of your power supply and prevent overloading. It can help extend the runtime of your generator or solar panels, and ensure that other appliances in your RV have enough power to run without interruption.
How to Install a Soft Start for RV AC
Tools and Materials Needed
Before starting the installation process, make sure that you have the following tools and materials:
- Soft start kit
- Wire strippers
- Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
- Drill and drill bits
- Electrical tape
- Zip ties
- Wire connectors
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
1. Turn off the RV’s power supply and disconnect the AC unit from the power source. 2. Locate the AC unit’s electrical panel and remove the cover. 3. Identify the wires that connect to the AC unit’s compressor and remove the wire nuts. 4. Connect the soft start kit’s wires to the compressor wires using wire connectors. Make sure to match the wire colors. 5. Mount the soft start kit to the electrical panel using screws and a drill. 6. Use zip ties to secure the wires and prevent them from moving around. 7. Reattach the electrical panel cover and turn the RV’s power supply back on. 8. Test the AC unit to make sure that it is functioning properly. Installing a soft start for RV AC can be a simple and effective way to reduce the strain on your RV’s electrical system. With the right tools and materials, and by following the step-by-step guide above, you can install a soft start kit in just a few hours.
Choosing the Right Brand
When it comes to choosing the right soft start for your RV AC, there are a few key factors to consider. This section will cover some of the most important considerations to keep in mind. I decided to go with Soft Start RV, check them out here, follow me along I’m going to document the install process and yes I’m going to do it myself! The main reason I chose this product is the customer service, their RV tech will schedule a video chat with me to walk me through the installation, not just me, anyone!
Compatibility with RV AC Units
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a soft start for RV AC is compatibility. Not all soft starts are compatible with all RV AC units, so it’s important to do your research and make sure you choose a soft start that will work with your specific unit.
Some soft starts are designed to work with a wide range of AC units, while others are more specialized. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility before making your purchase.
Brand Reputation
Finally, it’s a good idea to consider the reputation of the brand you’re considering. Look for a brand that has a good reputation for quality, reliability, and customer service.
Read reviews from other RV owners to get a sense of how well their choice has worked for them. Consider factors like ease of installation, effectiveness in reducing startup current, and overall performance.
After taking all of these factors into consideration, I decided to order myself The Soft Start RV for my Class A, and my Pleasureway. I intend to install these myself. I was particularly impressed with the customer service offered by this brand. They will actually video chat with me for the installation. I’m very excited! Stay tuned here, or on my Facebook Group for the progress on this project!
Conclusion
Soft start technology is a great addition to any RV air conditioning system. It reduces the stress on the electrical system and extends the life of the compressor. With a soft start installed, RV owners can enjoy their air conditioning without worrying about tripping breakers or damaging the compressor.
This technology is also easy to install and use. Most kits come with detailed instructions and can be installed in a matter of hours. Once installed, the unit is automatic and requires no additional maintenance.
While soft start technology can be a bit pricey, it is a worthwhile investment for any RV owner who wants to ensure their air conditioning system is running smoothly and efficiently. With a soft start installed, RV owners can enjoy their air conditioning without any interruptions or worries.
A soft start is a relay that starts the generator at a lower voltage than when it’s running normally. This prevents voltage spikes and other irregularities in the power supply for your RV, which can damage your home appliances. Soft starts are helpful in preventing voltage spikes and other irregularities in the power supply for your RV, which could damage many of the home appliances within it.
