How To Install A Soft Start Kit On A Air Conditioner | Run Home AC With A Generator | MicroAir

[@ronpearl4660]

Subscribed. This was exactly what I was looking for and nobody else had it for homes. Thank you!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Im glad it was helpful! Thank you for subscribing!

[@glasser2819]

@@HowToHomeDIY This compressor starter is great to refuce contactor and bearings abuse. Now go ahead one step further and put a single phase "Schneider soft-starter" on the FAN Motor itself. It will further reduce start surge of Fan and lenghten its life span. These motors get killed during the start surge when the rotor translates before it can start spining. Capacitors also take a beating by instant surge

[@mikejennings681]

Now have credit $523.46cr!

[@juanresendiz56jr]

Good information! I subscribed and liked. My question is can you have a hard start kit on the system and also install the soft start??

[@HowToHomeDIY]

@juanresendiz56jr No. Can only be one or the other. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@royagrusa2396]

I installed an Easy Start on my 2.5 ton Trane unit and the results were less than expected, I get frustrated when devices do not work as advertised, I also stated this in a comment on youtube. I was very disappointed, however Micro Air reached out with very highly qualified techs and even a design engineer. The problem was NOT theirs but with their great customer service they took on the problem of getting my inrush current down to acceptable levels. My unit has a non-bleed TXV and they have come up with an engineering fix to get my inrush down. GEEZE they even offered to help me change out the TXV if necessary!!!!! Micro-Air is a great company to do business with, they do stand behind their products!!! Thanks for reading this, Roy Agrusa

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Wow, that’s awesome! They really do care about their products and customers. Thanks a lot for sharing!

[@thegolfnut812]

Thanks for the info. What's a non-bleed TXV? Can you explain in mor detail what engineering fix they came up with. That would be helpful.

[@MrUtubeobia]

Just installed one on my 4 ton ac and went from 121 to 34 starting amps, and my 8kw Generac handled it just fine. Totally recommend.😊

[@guntherpprice]

Are you using a 50amp plug or a 30amp plug from the generator to the house?

[@MrUtubeobia]

@@guntherpprice I am using a 30 amp plug and 30 amp breaker in my panel.

[@code3k5]

I watched a dozen videos on this soft start including the manufacturers, yours was by far, to me, the most clear and to the point. I now have confidence to finally install mine. Thanks for the video.

[@FloridaFamilyLife]

The best video on YT showing the exact wiring, clear and straight forward. Thanks. Great Job.

[@OscarRodSeedsofG]

Thank you for your great video; I learned a lot from it. I do have an observation, and you may have taken care of it off camera. but you touched the capacitor. You know what you are doing and were careful not to touch the bare connections, but a novice might not know that the capacitor holds a lot of power (even when the power is off) that can even kill.

[@ramyarj]

Just installed these on two units with this video's help. Hasn't blown up yet. Thanks!

[@rodeobob6861]

I installed one a couple days ago and it works great. I have a 4 Ton unit and when starting only pulls 22 Amps now. We can run our central air on a generator no problem . I bought the Flex Bluetooth model.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@maxwellcrazycat9204]

I bought the Flex unit also. Waiting for the install kit. Glad your results are good.

[@slidewaze]

They really work well. Same situation here. 4 ton A/C. It's nice that the soft start allows the indoor blower and outdoor fan to start a few seconds before the compressor. On Generator it gives it time to ramp up a little just as the compressor starts. Great video. Clear and concise. Thanks for putting this up.

[@troy3456789]

I am wondering about putting regular soft starts on the condenser cooling fan and on the squirrel cage fan. It makes sense that it would improve the life of those motors. This is a video about soft starters in general and it helped me understand how it is without them, and how they reduce the destructive force of direct online operation: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bImaYoWQjNuCrMU

[@rogerpearce8358]

Read instructions, thought man, this is complicated. Watched your video, hooked up no problem & it works great. They need to pay you & put your video on their website. Crystal clear, simple and accurate. Great job my friend. Just tried out today, ran whole house, including 3.5 ton a/c , 2 refrigerators & a freezer on 12k peak portable generator. Saved me thousands of $$$.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Good to hear! Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the feedback Roger. Enjoy the new toy!

[@Jim12291958]

I just installed the system on my American Standard Gold Series 3 ton heat pump. (I gave the full description in the event someone else has the same system) You're directions were very clear and precise. I really appreciate your informative video. Thanks 👌 👍

[@rcinfla9017]

MicroAir Easystart is a combo soft start and hard start modification. Should have shown start current after the five training cycles with the actual selected start current showing on sixth startup. Allow 5 mins off time for compressor refrigerant pressures to equalize between training starts. Typically achieve 60% to 70% reduction in startup surge current on compressor. Training should be done on grid, not with generator. A hardstart kit is just a momentarily large start cap placed across compressor run cap during the half second startup. It is intended for low AC line voltage situations or long wire runs to compressor. It actually increases startup current. Softstart is a like a 'light dimmer' that ramps up the voltage during the half second startup. With both hard start cap boost and softstart dimmer ramp, the hard start cap is also voltage ramped so it gives the torque boost without the sudden surge current to compressor start winding of a normal hard start kit. After the start up, the run current is as normally seen before installing MicroAir. The MicroAir does not effect run current. It is bypassed with a relay after the about half second startup cycle to prevent excessive heating of voltage ramp triac.

[@tonylohrman2031]

This is a great device. Can this be used with a heat pump as well?

[@rcinfla9017]

@@tonylohrman2031 yes

[@Ryan-dj5ku]

Thanks for the info!. If a hard-start was installed due to issues with an old compressor, would this help prolong it's life?

[@rcinfla9017]

@@Ryan-dj5ku Lowering the startup surge will reduce stress on compressor. Weak link in EasyStart is the electrolytic start capacitor. Good to buy a spare capacitor to have on hand.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

@RCin Fla what do you mean by the capacitor being the weak link? I am asking because I’m going to be doing a new video on micro airs newer model and in prepping for that video I found something very interesting in regards to the capacitor on the ac. So looking for your insight as to what you meant. Thanks.

[@alanrodgers4156]

One of best videos on micro air easy install. Easy to understand, even better than the one on micr-air KZbin channel! Excellent zoom in. Appreciate it!

[@dannyscobee6530]

I installed one of these on my rv. It works great & makes it possible to run the ac on a smaller generator.

[@losrubios7251]

Thanks, we just installed a couple of Tesla Powerwall 2 storage batteries and I wanted a soft start kit to reduce the amp draw when the batteries are running our 3.5 ton Ruud package air conditioner during peak energy hours when the Tesla Gateway switches our home over to off-grid battery-only mode. After finding and watching your video, I bought the same model of soft starter and installed it today. Very easy to do and seems to work as advertised. Thanks for taking the time to make this video.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Oh that sounds cool! I am definitely interested in also having a way to provide electricity in the event of a longer power outage aside from a generator. Have been looking at some solar setups. The Powerwalls are interesting. Glad to hear that this helped!

[@tamichamberlain5263]

Love this! I'm widowed and am trying to figure out how to wire by cabin for a generator and this was the next video. The other one helped also. Thank you for making so simple a "girl" can do it. LOL I'll definitely be watching more if you have any for making wiring simple for this girl.

[@BrazDane]

Excellent video. Clear, to the point and well-explained and edited!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Much appreciated! Glad you liked it!

[@1462JWOOD]

Thanks man … Had no ideal hooking a generator to your house was this easy!!

[@reddtmann7361]

Wow, very easy install.. Hvac Tech here I'm impressed!

[@intrepidad]

Adam, My son and I just finished installing the Micro Air ASY-368-X48 Soft Start gizmo on our 4 ton A/C unit. We followed your instructions to a "T" and the results are as follows: The IRA before was at 76.9, after the gizmo was installed it dropped down between 30.4 and 33.i Amps. The running Amps before was between 12.8 and 13.1 and it dropped down to 10.9 Amps after the gizmo. We attached ours to the side of the A/C unit and put a hoodie over it so that the intense south Florida sun does not bleach out the decal or make the clear plastic cover brittle over the years ( also it protects it from the rain). We could have not done this without you, thank you so much for posting your informative, detailed video so a layman like myself could accomplish this. Thank You and GOD BLESS YOU!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Wow, fantastic results! Very similar to mine. I also ended up making a box for mine just to shield it more from the elements and like you said, the sun. I am glad to hear you were able to get it installed and it is working for you! When the next hurricane comes, you are going to love having it! Thank you for the feedback! Always happy to hear when a video helps someone. God bless you too!

[@tjparker9097]

Excellent explanation! Appreciate you taking the time to thoroughly explain the process. Well Done!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You're very welcome! I am glad it was helpful!

[@mattbliven5345]

Cap can zap ya pretty good.

[@johndodi]

Thanks so much for the video and the advice on how a soft start works. I installed a 3 ton soft start and now I can power my AC unit with my 6 KW portable generator with no problems. By the way, the wife is happy, so now the whole house is happy.

[@israelgriffin585]

Great work my brother ! Thanks for the information on a soft start kit . Be blessed and a blessing & God bless you always and forever my Brother.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thank you! God bless you too! Thank you for the feedback.

[@ronwalsh]

I found this video by chance, and I have to tell you those are some incredible numbers. I am going to place an order for one of these and see if I can get the AC humming on generator power. Hell, if my generator powers nothing else during an outage but the AC I (and the wife) will be happy campers. Thanks for posting this.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Yes everyone stays much happier. Would love to hear what your numbers end up being. Thanks a lot for the feedback Ron!

[@rafaeldiazus]

Your instructions were spot on! Appreciate the detail of your video.

[@herrero562]

Thanks for the vid. Bought the same easy soft start kit and hired a licensed HVAC to install it on my 4 ton Rheem for $65. IT WORKS LIKE A CHARM with my Wgen9500 on propane (11200/8500) generator. We’re now ready for the next act of nature here in Texas.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Awesome! That is a good price! You are definitely all setup and prepared. We had some big storms wipe out the power a couple days ago for a few hours. Hooked the generator up to the house and was like we never lost it haha. Thank you for the feedback! Enjoy!

[@raddadization]

You must live in bfe. No one even knocks at the door here for under $85

[@CaptHammer]

Do you know the running amps/kw when you are running the ac on generator power? I am considering the Wgen 9500W thank you.

[@troy3456789]

@@raddadization No kidding. He must already be a next door neighbor/friend/ relative or something.

[@carapungo]

@@CaptHammer typically when the compressor kicks in, a 4 ton unit runs on about 5,000 watts.

[@elektrikman8834]

absolutely perfect solution for ac units I think the should come in the unit from the manufacturer great job installing

[@beauxtx1959]

Excellent. We have a 15K/12K gas generator that runs our AC just fine, but I still want to install a soft start kit. This was very helpful. Thanks.

[@erickalmaraz6837]

What size generator do you have?

[@JetFire9]

@@erickalmaraz6837It’s a 15K/12K gas generator.

[@JetFire9]

@@erickalmaraz6837😂😂😂

[@danfitzpatrick4112]

Nice! Just what I bought to allow my DIY power wall inverters to operate with a lower inrush. Can't wait to hook it up... Thanks for sharing!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are very welcome. That sounds interesting!

[@guavaball]

hey Adam thanks for the videos on setting up a generator for your house. I followed your lead and it was far less intimidating plus the soft start was amazing. I'm able to run my 4 ton a/c plus 2 large screen tvs, refrigerator, 2 computers, stereo and lights and 3 battery backups on a 7000watt running inverter generator.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thats awesome! Now when the power goes out, it will almost be like it didn't. Glad you were able to get it all set up!

[@murymann]

So…by adding some capacitance you’re able to ‘run’ just over 10kw ( at 120/240 single phase ) of load on an alternator and prime mover rated for only 7kw at peak output. Slick. I’d love to see it in action.

[@jonlee5642]

How long does 1 tank last?

[@roberthughes2687]

@@jonlee5642 one tank of what?

[@guavaball]

@a mere bondservant Honestly I just wired up the whole panel and I dont know what the final load was but the only major appliance I ran at once was the a/c but I had my main room running with 4 battery backups, 2 computers, one large tv and a microwave

[@MooreIsAllYouNeed]

Just added mine to our 4 ton unit. Runs the AC no problem at 75% load on my Storm Responder 6250. Your video made the install directions crystal clear!!! Thanks man!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Wow that is awesome! These things really are great. Glad you are up and running. Thank you for that feedback! 👍

[@judjohnson4640]

Are you guys seeing a substantial dip in voltage & hz from the generator when the AC unit starts up? I just damaged both my refrigerators while running whole house on generator. I believe the issue to possibly be a dip in voltage/hz when the AC unit starts up. Just curious to see if you have experienced something similar?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

It could have been from what you described but it could also be your generator. If it has a higher THD% it could damage the sensitive boards on whatever you are powering.

[@judjohnson4640]

@@HowToHomeDIY The THD is less than 5%. It’s a generac Gp17500e

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Oh ok. If it’s that low then you should be good there.

[@catastrophicfella]

Think this was the video I needed to see. Have read instructions on web side for micro-air and watched other vids but this is the one that sunk in. Thank you!

[@gottofly2]

Thanks Adam! As a result of watching your video several times, I decided that EasyStart was the right solution for me. I am planning a 9.5kw emergency back-up generator. I also installed an IoTaWatt power monitor so I could see my max loads on each circuit. I measured the inrush at my breaker legs to include the inrush amps to charge the capacitor. I was at 138a on each leg. I measured the running amps including the fan and compressor at 18.7a. I’ll be installing my EasyStart, sized for my 5 T on Saturday. I had to wait until they got some inventory in.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Yeah that is a big unit! I think you will find it very helpful once you install it. I love mine! Generator barely pulls down when my 4 ton kicks on.

[@gottofly2]

@@HowToHomeDIY I finally got my Easy Start unit installed yesterday due to shipping delays. My results on my 5T AC unit were beyond my expectations. My surge amps dropped from 138a per phase to 42+a/phase. But the big surprise was my running amps. They dropped from 19.2a per phase to 13.6a. This was my measurement after 5 starts this morning. That's a 1300 watt savings in my running power and a 69% drop in my surge amps. I decided as a result of running Iotawatt Power Management and these final Easy Start measurements to drop my generator size for this winter to a smaller unit. I am purchasing the WH iGen 4500 which will run all my house circuits except for my large appliances and AC. I may still purchase the WH 9.5kw/12.5kw peak next summer if I want to run AC. But it consumes less than half the fuel during a blackout and most of ours come in the winter! Thanks Adam!! Awesome channel!

[@jackmorgan709]

@@gottofly2 I don't understand how this unit can reduce the running amps. With all the efficiency mandates these days you'd think every a/c would be required to use one of these!

[@gottofly2]

@@jackmorgan709 after having it for 9 months, I have observed that the running amps stayed marginally the same-19a. The biggest drop was in my inrush amps. 138 to 42a. I ended up purchasing the bigger WH 9500.

[@goofsaddggkle7351]

@@gottofly2 I went thru the same calculations in my head and just went for the biggest quietest invertor generator I could find that also could be converted to natural gas. You never regret having more wh available, especially when a neighbor is in need.

[@jermainwhyte6894]

Excellent video I have solar and a 3.5 ton trane package unit and my 12kw inverter and only 300 amp hour battery start the ac after installing this exact softstart unit. I tried before installing and it wouldn’t start the eg4 batteries would go in protective mode and shout down. This did the trick. Now I only need more batteries for storage. Thanks again.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Awesome. Glad to hear you are all setup! Thanks a lot for the feedback and enjoy that cool air 😎

[@TheCreepa69]

Excellent video, I just bought a generator and this was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you

[@jgilliam1955]

Your information is awesome! My daughter & I just installed one following your video it worked. Thanks!.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Awesome! Glad it helped! Thanks for the feedback Jack. Enjoy the unit!

[@intrepidad]

Adam, Thanks for your quick response. I couldn't find the HERM label but I found out that it's the one that goes to the compressor. I will attempt the install tomorrow based on your very done video. Wish me luck!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Ok great! Good luck! Let me know how it goes.

[@keiganweatherford5734]

For future reference from an hvac tech you could also count the pins for the spade connectors on the capacitor. 4 is common from the contactor 3 is herm for the compressor 2 is fan to the condenser fan motor

[@sholtalddavid2751]

Great video. It is very informative. I find that the installation of the soft start kit is pretty straightforward. I too have a 4-Ton (Daikins) AC. I have a portable generator, 12K, Duramax, that is connected via a 50 amp transfer switch. I can run everything with the exception of my ac. My ac has a 40 amp double pole breaker. And I'm not sure how to connect it to my transfer switch to power the ac when an outage occurs. I'd like your input. Thank you.

[@garystanfield4221]

Worked great! Thanks for the video! Perfect!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You’re very welcome! Really glad to hear it worked so well for you too. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@danburch9989]

You can look for the "Locked Rotor Amps" or "LRA" spec on the compressor and most any motor. That is the instantaneous max current demand upon initial application of power and lasts for 1/2 cycle. As the motor gets up to speed, the counter EMF will drop the current to normal levels. There's a formula to determine the actual start up current.

[@shangri-lahomestead2895]

Thank you for sharing this information with us.

[@Tommy.McLean]

As I'm sitting in the middle of hurricane Ian I am really enjoying your videos and REALLY want to thank you

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thanks a lot for the feedback! Stay safe! We are waiting for Ian to make his way up to us. Currently just getting the outer rain bands.

[@Tommy.McLean]

@@HowToHomeDIY yeah same here. the thing is parked. Sloooooooow

[@ygg3097]

Thank you for this video. Keep up the good works my friend.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are very welcome. Thank you for the kind words!

[@lg3053]

Thanks for this video. Your connections worked on my Carrier 3.5 ton ac ( 11 years old )

[@Wattshappening]

HVAC pro here. Hard start kits are for a different task completely they are for aging weaker compressors to give them an extra kick in the butt to start. Think of it like coffee Your regular capacitor set it is the regular coffee. Which is great for most people. But some people need that extra jolt with a shot of espresso as well. That’s the hard start. This is like switching to decaf.

[@logicalrat]

A customer told me about these soft starts, told him I would check them out and put one on my own unit. Thank you for the info

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are welcome! My only regret is not installing it sooner! Love this thing.

[@vincei4252]

Excellent, thanks for this. I bought my run start in December and now installing as I'm gonna need it soon. You explanation was excellent! The document on the Micro-air site made me want to lose the will to live. They couldn't even explain what each wire was so I wasn't about to just blindly connect stuff to the kit. With your clear simple explanation I understood what each wire dose and will go ahead with the install. I just don't get why people make something that is so simple sound so frickin complicated! And I'm an electronics engineer! Cheers!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Awesome! Really glad to hear it was helpful. Yeah the instructions are a bit difficult to understand as there are so many different schematics offered. I reached out to them to clarify the instructions before filming this. Hope you enjoy the soft start! Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@renzoreba]

Best wiring explanation 👍🏼

[@Sebastian-dx2xg]

Great tutorial. Will use that info. Best to spend a little more $$$ to get it done correctly. I have no problem with that

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Absolutely! To me this thing has been worth every penny!

[@allencar5212]

Thanks for the video. I also have been researching this topic so that I can use a soon to be purchased generator for my house A/C. It turns out that these soft start systems are common in Europe. Emerson (which makes all kinds of high end automatic plant level controls) manufacturers a soft start system in Europe which sells for a lot less than what you can find one in the USA; but it is not sold here. If Emerson manufacturers one; I know it is proven technology and feel comfortable buying it. Soft starts are normal for 3-phase motors in a chemical plants so that the equipment lasts longer and you don't pull the large electrical spikes; but I thought they were not an option for single phase electricity like we have in our houses. I am undecided between the EasyStart 368 and one from Hyper Engineering SS1B16-32SN. It is $249 versus the $350 for the EasyStart 368. Cost entereds into the decision but the main reason I lean to the Hyper Engineering was they provided lots of information on why and how the device works. As a chemical engineer, I like that. Yes, their installation videos are MIA. Previously, I had succesfully used a Hard Start kit for generator operation testing on a 4-ton 2-stage 18SEER compressor but it really hammers the compressor motor. I pulled the hard-start kits out for normal (non-generator) operation; because I did not like the sound my compressors made when they started. These soft start kits work in the opposite manner and should extend the life of the compressor. Final comment. I no longer will use my old generator because the power it produces has 11-14% THD distortion. Better than many generator but enough to possibly cause problems on some household electronics which includes almost everything in your house. You need

[@kjisnot]

Nice video. This showed a significant drop in current while running. Has this also resulted in any noticeably reduced electric bills?

[@redemptusrenatus5336]

There's a long video speaking with one of the engineers from MicroAir about these soft start kits and he explained simply that the reduced current is for so brief a time (to get the compressor going) that the amount saved would be negligible (think penny or less) and you wouldn't really notice it. It's more the ability to start the system with less current as well as the side effect of not driving your compressor so hard which will help lengthen the life of the compressor because it's not being subjected to the high inrush current.

[@luismarty1685]

Thank you. That is super easy.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are welcome. Glad you liked it. Thanks for the feedback Luis!

[@cwil1930]

One other important feature of that particular soft start is it will keep the compressor from trying to turn back on after a power glitch. From Memory I think it is like 5 min, that way the refrigerant has time to bleed down and equalize. Great video.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thanks for that added info!

[@chillintm]

Not sure if anyone has experience with the Nest thermostat but mine seems to sometimes kick the HVAC off and then immediately back on. I'm wondering how this Micro-air module will interact with whatever logic is causing this. I think it may be related to the Nest "Airwave" feature that is supposed to use the central HVAC fan to circulate residual cool air through the home after turning the compressor off. Curiously I have this feature turned off so I don't know what is happening but I'm worried the Micro air will be a conflict. I will report back with my findings.

[@goofsaddggkle7351]

@@chillintm I had nothing but problems with my Nest. Most a/c's don't run off JUST temperature, but they are also dehumidifiers. It is part of the design of an a/c system to control both. I say get rid of the Nest like I did and just get a $30 Honeywell thermostat from the Depot.

[@buckwheat409]

@@goofsaddggkle7351 interesting info. I have not installed my Micro Air yet, but I do have a nest thermostat-e, and it will cycle off compressor but it’ll be a few minutes before it kicks back on and continues to cool.

[@brandonhewitt2386]

Most digital tstats have a 5min delay when power is cut.

[@eduardoavendano8043]

You have the exact projects that I plan on doing on my house nice video!. Can you just make an updated video of your generac transfer switch working with this soft start? I just want to see what all you can run with the generator and A/C.

[@rdcd111]

Excellent how to video. I'm from central Florida and elderly so doing the installation will be to hard being bent over. Who should I call to install it. An a/c guy or an electrician? Thank you for the excellent video.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

An AC contractor should be able to do it for you. Just make sure they know you want a micro air easy start soft starter. I have heard from many people saying they tried to have a soft starter put on their ac unit and the ac company showed up trying to install a hard start kit. I think this is mainly because soft starters are still less known and the ac companies would need to order it. Thanks a lot for the feedback! I’m glad you liked it.

[@lindaosborne3392]

Great videos, easy to follow step by step

[@ericallen7200]

I just installed mine and it was just as easy as you made it look. My generator wouldn't start the AC... but NOW.

[@alexk971]

Great video! Are all models of 3-4 ton AC system have the same wiring set up?

[@mcook407]

Thank You for your video, helped a ton!!!!!

[@voyagerman22]

Thanks for video, been considering this for my home AC. The soft start current reduction is great, but had question in running current. It went from 12 amps to 7-8 amps which is great, but not sure what this means. Seems like using less electricity, but is the cooling the same? If it is the same, why don’t manufacturers put soft starts on all their AC units? Thanks again.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Hey Jeff, yes, even though the electrical requirement is less, the cooling remains the same. Basically it is making the startup of you AC unit, more efficient. On the home AC, instead of sending one big blast of electricity all at once, the soft start starts the fan first, then after a few seconds, the compressor kicks on. By doing it this way and gradually ramping up the power, the unit is not drawing as much amperage all at once. In a generator application, running the AC is not the issue, they dont use that much power to run, it is the starting in rush amperage that makes it difficult to impossible without one of these devices. As far as running current, it doesn't affect that much if at all, they are really just for the starting of the AC unit. I have seen different explanations as to why these or hard starts aren't already installed and the answer I saw the most and makes the most sense, is it just adds cost to the manufacturing of the units. Hard start kits were actually fairly common on AC units years ago and some of your more expensive models, from what I have read do have them installed already. So while there is no clear cut answer, those are the answers I have gathered from people in the industry talking about it. I hope this was helpful and answered your questions.

[@voyagerman22]

Thank you for detailed reply. I might have to look into doing something like this so I can maybe use my 2000W gas inverter generator. Thank you, again!

[@jman210210]

@@HowToHomeDIY Some AC units have VFDs installed and have no LRA on the motor, these are super efficient units, but they are expensive of course!

[@locovidepro]

I will definitely get this soft starter. I watched the other video in how to install the generator inlet switch and getting ready to place my order. One last thing and the most important that I need is - The Generator! Now, what size and how much power do I need?😮

[@owensnider3008]

Great video and made my installation a breeze! I included a like in my product review for the vendor where I bought my Micro Air. Many thanks!

[@floridawashprosllc6542]

Living in SWFL we went almost 3 weeks with out power. Installing this and the generator plug.

[@RLoose9494]

I would also use soldered connectors with heat shrink

[@buffalomitch7088]

I bought the MicroAir soft start for my A/C based on this video. Haven't installed it yet, but wished you had some shots of the final installation. What did you use to run the cables through the wall of the air conditioner? Did you mount it on the wall as you said? Good video. I hope it works for me.

[@ankurag18]

great content! subscribed. Question - is there a good video which helps me 'size' the generator based on the load I plan to run during apower outage? I have 2 AC units (top and bottom floors), a refrigerator and the usual lights/fans, etc. Dryer and Washer are optional :)

[@ilver5478]

This helps with the AC start up…. But does this help with the heat pump as well, or is there something else that would need to be added to help with the heat pump start up? Thank you. Great channel… subscribing now.🙏

[@maxwellcrazycat9204]

As a former auto mechanic I've seen what can happen when people pressure wash their engines and engine compartments. The weather proof connectors and seals don't hold up to the pressurized water and can become compromised.

[@billyv1711]

Hi Adam, what a great video I just bought a house this week and I am going to get this switch as soon as I move in. But Is there anything that's made for a refrigerator to do the same thing?

[@mobayguy]

Thanks Very Much! Awesome video

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You're very welcome! Glad it was helpful!

[@pavelsanchez9606]

Very good video thank you

[@jetlaggedchef6806]

Great video and explanation! I also watched the generator plug video. Any chance you'd mind sharing the specs on the generator you're using?

[@armonddipoalo6730]

Great video... how many kW generator would you recommend for my 4 ton unit?

[@claudew5582]

Do they make soft start for deep well pumps? We have an off grid cottage and the pump (120v) initial start up uses 72A. Very thorough tutorial video on ac compressor, definitely will add to ours in town. Cheers

[@johnpicard4909]

Very detailed. Thank you.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jean-claudeduval]

After the recent ice storm in Québec I would like to be able to run my 1 T mini split on a generator. Q 1. is a soft start needed on those? Q 2. what size of generator is adequate? thanks for the great videos.

[@chuckhindelang8848]

Great video. Will this also reduce my electric bill?

[@amillano361]

I just purchased everything you have shown in the video. I was curious I have a 60 Amp Double Pole Breaker to run my Air Handler with Heating Kit. Will I still be able to run my AC Unit with a portable generator with a Westinghouse WGen7500DF (7500/9500)? I am not trying to run heat just AC. Dont know if thatll make a difference and run less amps.

[@newageautotechnology]

Sweet setup.thanks

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are welcome. It is really nice to know we can cool the house if needed with the generator. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@ericallen7200]

Doesn't the micro-air require a few start cycles to learn the unit and further improve / reduce the starting amps?

[@bobrub]

Hi Adam, You edited out the (OH Sh?t) part where you noticed you forgot to run the "easy start" cable through a knock out hole in the bottom of the wiring panel didn't you? Those types of mistakes would give us a little laugh and show you are human like most of us.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You know what, I filmed this around 2 years ago and I totally forgot about that haha. I had to go back and rewatch it. That definitely did happen. Good eye! I am most definitely human, that is for sure!

[@degen_dad7682]

@@HowToHomeDIYhow did you end up mounting it to the wall? Does it have a bracket?

[@r35617y]

Thank you very much for taking the time to do this. Instructions were perfect my 4 ton home unit.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Awesome! I’m glad you found it helpful! Thank you for the feedback!

[@SkyHawk2849]

@@HowToHomeDIY How many tons is your unit? And does this mean that a 30 amp gen cant handle your ac unit?

[@edwardstanley2195]

thanks, very helpful.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@shaybee22]

5 Ton AC, and installed perfectly, thanks for posting this detailed info was really helpful. L'd & Sub'd

[@rbnjr]

I have seen this kit and it appears to work correctly. my question is if a condenser motor already has a hard start kit installed to help with starting and i remove that hard start kit and install this kit will it provide enough current to actually start it without the added help from the hard start kit. good video!

[@mmurray1963]

Yes, in the instructions of the kit it says to disconnect any hard start kit before installing. The Micro-Air kit is all you'll need.

[@DanHealyEngineer]

What’s curious to me is the lower current draw in the stable running state. Since compressors and motors are rated, I would expect the same current draw. Since yours was less (7 vs 12A), wouldn’t your compressor be…compressing less and thus creating less cooling?

[@JoeV2020]

Thank you for the video.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You're very welcome! Thank you for the feedback.

[@johnconrad5487]

why would the run amps be 8A instead of 12A? Run should be the same as before 12A. Something seems fishy! Thanks for making this video. My AC constantly pops the breaker. I had an electrician replace the breaker panel because the main electrical run melted due to heating. I know about soft start but did not know they sold a commercial unit for the AC. Gonna install one of these and save myself a lot of headaches.

[@808airgunsbackyardaz6]

Makes sense, Long term saves

[@dice468]

Thanks

[@TinCanSailor]

Sub'd. After watching this a few days ago I decided to have our HVAC guy install this on our 4ton AC. We saw an in rush of nearly 90 and it dropped to 50 after the install.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Awesome results! Do you have the newer bluetooth one or the one like mine? The bluetooth one is interesting to me.

[@benkanobe7500]

What was the cost of the install and was it tied to a service call or just to install the Soft Start?

[@fb510m]

Did you have to ground the cap. to release any of it's stored energy?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

It’s recommended to do so just in case. Typically they don’t retain a charge but they can on rare occasion. I have an updated video on this project on the channel and I go over that.

[@tahmoresgholamipour4981]

THANKS FOR YOUR VIDEO YOUR INSTRUCTION HELPED ME TO INSTALL MY EASY START-ASY 368.

[@josefprem4535]

Great content thanks for creating this. Any consideration to the indoor unit powering up and that load? It’s really just the fan in the air handler but is there a way to stage that as well as opposed to it kicking on at the same time?

[@dalltex]

Turn thermostat to cool/heat off, fan on and then switch to cool once fan is running. Most I’m aware of are staged automatically but this way will assure it is.

[@zippydewdawg5162]

Good info! Ty for putting this up!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are very welcome! Glad you found it helpful. Thank you for the feedback!

[@josecoronel7810]

Great video tks man you save me $1500 is what a A/C company wanted to charge me

[@stingk5295]

Bought One looking Forward to Install

[@jessicadiesel3193]

Question my AC it’s about 3 years new nevertheless haven’t any issues, but on my AC Carrier 3.5 tons did I needed to install the cold start kit or only the old units it’s applicable. Thank you

[@onthaloose7521]

I get that this device is meant to spread out the draw to lower peak draw, but since you showed the running draw also dropping from 12 amps to 7, does this effect actual cooling? Does this neuter your 4ton ac to like 3.5 or 3 tons? Or have you not noticed any change?

[@johnweaver1198]

Perfect. Any problems with it since you have had it installed for a year now?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

No problems at all.