Soft Start for RV Air Conditioning The Moochdocking Revolution
If you’re an RVer like me, you know that comfort can be a game-changer, especially during those sweltering summer months. For a while, I had been moochdocking in my parents’ driveway. I say “moochdocking” lovingly; it’s a fantastic way to spend quality time with family and have a reliable place to park your RV. Moochdocking is like boondocking but it means you are on the property of someone you know and you use their utilities but with more simplified methods. But let’s get real — running a rooftop AC unit can be challenging.
I was there, plugged in with a conventional 100-foot extension cord, thinking I was all set for a cool, comfortable summer. But, as many of us know, I was about to become very acquainted with the home’s electrical breaker. Yes, I kept tripping it. After a couple of trips to the breaker box in the middle of an important project, I decided something needed to change. Enter the soft start for RV air conditioning.
Why Soft Start for RV Air Conditioning? The Game-Changer
What is a soft start, you ask? It’s a device that you wire into your air conditioning unit to control the voltage and current when the compressor starts up. In layman’s terms, instead of your AC guzzling power like it’s in a drinking contest, it sips energy slowly, avoiding that dreaded power surge that trips breakers.
The Installation Saga
When I decided to go for it, I got my soft start system, and, let me tell you, I was a bit intimidated by all those wires. But the company I purchased it from schedules a live video chat for the installation process. Easy breezy, seriously. If I can do it, so can you. If you’re not confident working with electrical systems, you might prefer to hire a professional, but honestly, it was a simple process.
The Results: Cool Vibes and Lower Bills
So, did it work? Absolutely. Not only did my AC run flawlessly, but I also saw a noticeable decrease in my parents’ hydro-electric bill by the end of the summer. It’s a win-win: I get to stay cool, and my parents save a bit on their utilities. The AC unit was also a heck of a lot quieter. I’ll be posting a youtube of the installation process soon.
What’s Next? The Camper Van Project
I loved the results so much that I’m now planning on installing a soft start for RV air conditioning in my Camper Van. I’ll be spending this winter in Mexico, and the last thing I want is for my onboard generator to throw a fit. A soft start will make it possible to keep the AC running without straining the generator.
Final Thoughts
The installation of a soft start for RV air conditioning has been a total game-changer. If you’re facing similar AC challenges, especially when moochdocking or dealing with finicky generators, I highly recommend looking into a soft start. The upfront costs are easily offset by the increased versatility, the life extension of your AC unit and generator, and energy cost savings.
