Hard Start Kits VS Soft Start Kits | Which Is Better?

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  • Опубліковано 4 лип 2024
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 219

  • @xxxblanco
    @xxxblanco Рік тому +6

    I subbed bro, I like how you try to educate homeowners in plain terms and show people how to do things in an easily understood way

  • @rcisneros8567
    @rcisneros8567 9 місяців тому

    Thanks for the video and thanks to the posters for all the helpful comments.

  • @GenerationXFiles1969
    @GenerationXFiles1969 26 днів тому +1

    Thank You, sir. I live in southern Florida where hurricanes and power outages happen frequently. This video is very informative. 👍

  • @felaxchow207
    @felaxchow207 Рік тому +8

    I installed the Micro-Air EasyStart on my 2.5 ton heat pump back in August 2021 and been very happy with it. Living in a subtropical zone and dealing with frequent summer storms tripping out the grid extension cord. I have generator power and no A/C for several hours can make things uncomfortable really quickly. The $400 price tag is abet steep, but the ability to run my 800 ft² home in "normal" mode including a 30 gallon electric water heater on a 9,500 Wp inverter generator in economy mode and not skipping a beat when the compressor kicks on is a godsend.
    The onboard diagnostics and compressor protection has saved me at least two $125 service truck roll calls plus parts. Having the EasyStart unit intervene in a fault event is way better than having the thermal overload tripping out. I've ran into one by the time someone realize what is happening the compressor housing was hot enough to fry an egg on it.
    As for the ICM870, I think it is a great budget friendly version for those who don't want the geeky bells and whistles. According to their specs, using the 16 amp version might be pushing the limits on a 4.5 ton OSU. Can't wait for them to release the 32 amp version soon enough since my neighbor wants one installed, but not $400 interested. If my memory serves me correctly the LRA is around 100+ amps definitely stall out a 20 kW natural gas generator and maybe not so much on a diesel version. The power head might not like it, but it'll muscle through it.
    Pricey investment as it may, but in the long term when your HVAC is at the end of its service life. The soft start unit is still good to transfer to the new replacement unit if it doesn't already have one already. Even the basic one has enough smarts to relearn to the operating characteristics of the new compressor.

    • @danray9744
      @danray9744 Рік тому +2

      the ICM-870-16 will work on a 2.5 ton and is only $154 Unless you want the Bluetooth Feature then Spend $300 Plus for Micro-Air

  • @Zaero55
    @Zaero55 Рік тому +3

    Thanks for all the great content! Really helped me understand the difference.

  • @hitekrednek66
    @hitekrednek66 Рік тому +1

    This explains what i was asking about in other video. 😅 Thank you! Your vids are great at explaining things to us knuckleheads. 😊

  • @jasonbuckner3289
    @jasonbuckner3289 Рік тому +5

    The ICM870 9amp is perfect for RV’s, the ICM870 16 and 32 amp is good for your home AC units. They’re 159 for the 9amp and the 16 and 32 amp is about 179. Half the price and it’s been around in the hvac industry for years. We’ve used them in server rooms with UPS on the server and AC units cooling the servers that will run on battery back up before the generator start up and some just run on ups systems till you can get power back up and running.

  • @everss02
    @everss02 10 місяців тому +4

    I put a 521 hard start on our new 4 ton, LRA dropped from 107 to 48., Easy for a generator to start

  • @bernardaflores1720
    @bernardaflores1720 Рік тому +1

    Nicely done!

  • @Optimization_Coach
    @Optimization_Coach Рік тому +24

    Just installed 2 micro air units on my 4 ton ac units. Had to call customer service and they resolved the issue pretty quickly. Went from 129 to 30 amps on my downstairs and similar to up. Very nice and definitely like the Diagnostic app as well. My 5500 generator will run these no issue now.

    • @danray9744
      @danray9744 Рік тому +4

      5500w generator is only 22.9 amps @ 240volts

    • @veri745
      @veri745 11 місяців тому

      @@danray9744 For running amps, pretty sure he's talking start-up amps

    • @giljunior7494
      @giljunior7494 11 місяців тому

      So, which easy start model did you purchased for your 4 ton A/C ??

    • @Optimization_Coach
      @Optimization_Coach 11 місяців тому

      @@giljunior7494 I believe the large blue 368

    • @Electric_Sherlock
      @Electric_Sherlock 10 місяців тому

      @@danray9744thats running watts. Every generator has 2 numbers. One is starting wattage and the second is running wattage. So a gen w/ 5500w running has a starting wattage of something like 7500w. Which is why it works.

  • @samTollefson
    @samTollefson 25 днів тому +1

    I put a 521 hard start on my 20+-year-old 3-ton A/C unit, and the starting amps dropped from 41.9 to 26.7, a 35% decrease. My 8750 inverter generator easily starts it. After running for a few minutes, I gradually flip on the rest of the breakers so the refrigerators and freezers don't all start at the same time. We often have a week or two each storm season where the power is off. We get power after all the businesses and rich people's homes get reconnected. Welcome to Floridaaa.

  • @ChrisSmithFMFL.
    @ChrisSmithFMFL. 2 місяці тому

    Thank You. From Fort Myers, FL.

  • @johnreese3762
    @johnreese3762 8 місяців тому

    Well done video, learned a lot!!

  • @SuperC188
    @SuperC188 3 місяці тому +1

    Great video.

  • @thomasjacques5286
    @thomasjacques5286 11 місяців тому +3

    Getting ready to add solar panels with battery backup and my solar installer wants to install a "soft-start" device so I can run my home AC even during a grid outage. Now I know what he's talking about.

  • @mdavid2100
    @mdavid2100 Рік тому +1

    Thank you for the information. I put one on my shopping list. I'm not very good with electrical stuff but I may be able to install. I watched your installation, and probably review it before attempting my installation. I used your link so hopefully you'll get credit if it's a few days before I purchase.

  • @MrTierhog774
    @MrTierhog774 10 місяців тому

    Running a 3.5T Honeywell from 2011 with a hard start. 13kw Generator with gas does fine. 😮

  • @ad-cc1sw
    @ad-cc1sw Місяць тому

    I just installed one yesterday. Even without thinking about a generator this will help your outside unit with amperage draw. Highly recommend. I paid $370!for the one installed. Total cost was $800 for the job. Definitely worth it in the long run.

    • @integr8er66
      @integr8er66 Місяць тому

      And how will it help? It doesn't reduce power consumption, it costs more than the window unit....By a lot, So what is the problem with a half second inrush current?

  • @keovongvilaykeo4799
    @keovongvilaykeo4799 Рік тому

    Always great thank 😊 you

  • @iamnoone.
    @iamnoone. Рік тому +5

    I've had an EASYSTART on my 3 ton pack for a year now, and my power bill has gone down every month. The power saving has Allright payed for it self

    • @weavercattlecompany
      @weavercattlecompany Місяць тому +1

      You're full of shit 🤣
      That's not what a soft-start kit or a start-capacitor does for the compressor.
      Soft-start reduces the initial amp draw and slowly ramps it up while a start-capacitor with a potential or current relay increases capacitance which increases amps through the start winding on the compressor creating a stronger magnetic field to force the rotor around easier hence a lower starting amp draw compared to just using a run-capacitor.
      Slow amp draw over a longer time duration or a quick amp draw which dims the lights in the house, either way its still going to use about the same amount of power.
      None of those things will actually save you on your electric bill 😏

  • @picklerix6162
    @picklerix6162 9 місяців тому +3

    The hard start kit is good for non-VRM compressors with expansion valve systems. The hard start kit will supposedly extend the life of the compressor. Most equipment manufacturers are too cheap to include hard start kit and pressure switches as standard equipment. There’s a good hard start demo with oscilloscope traces on UA-cam.
    The soft start should be used if you are trying to run your A/C with a generator.

  • @derrick_v
    @derrick_v Рік тому

    Thanks for the great information.

  • @boblatkey7160
    @boblatkey7160 11 днів тому

    The soft Art kits are also excellent for people that have solar systems with battery back up. Many inverters cannot handle the surge current of an air conditioner but with a soft start it is usually no problem and you can run your air conditioner for a few hours without running your batteries down too low during a long-term power outage

  • @dreednlb
    @dreednlb Рік тому +10

    Just ordered a micro air soft starter after watching many videos, including your install video. I have solar with battery backup. This will allow me to run the AC while off grid.

    • @corbinkappler4631
      @corbinkappler4631 3 місяці тому +1

      Can you give us an update? How is it going with the product?

    • @dreednlb
      @dreednlb 3 місяці тому

      @@corbinkappler4631 It's working great! Not much of an update to give because I installed it and it's just doing exactly what it was supposed to do. No issues. I can now run my heat pump air conditioner from just my batteries, no problem. My heat pump has a rated LRA (locked rotor amps) of 107. According to the Micro Air app, I'm now starting it using only 34 amps. Couldn't be happier with it.

    • @corbinkappler4631
      @corbinkappler4631 3 місяці тому

      @@dreednlb that’s great. Thank you for your response and for the helpful information.

  • @TheModelmaker123
    @TheModelmaker123 Рік тому +9

    Just installed the ICM-860 as the price is about half of the micro-air. Start up amps is 28 on a 4 ton unit. I didn't have meter to measure inrush before installing, but with the cost saving I was able to get a Kaiweets 208D clamp meter and still have money left.

    • @linvol20
      @linvol20 Рік тому +2

      Did the install make the start up noise less?

    • @chadd587
      @chadd587 24 дні тому +1

      Why go cheap on these?

    • @TheModelmaker123
      @TheModelmaker123 23 дні тому

      @@linvol20 Yes, I had a hard start unit installed before and it sounded like someone hit the unit with a hammer when it started. The soft start was a much smoother, softer start up.

  • @gerry427
    @gerry427 9 місяців тому

    Great videos !!!

  • @paulb4496
    @paulb4496 Місяць тому +1

    Power factor correction involves inductive reactance and capacitive reactance..how current changes in its relation to voltage in an inductive circuit. Fritz Rochester has an easy to understand video on UA-cam about Rectorseal Kickstart T05.

  • @Capt-Intrepid
    @Capt-Intrepid Рік тому +9

    There is a company now making Soft Start Kits for less than $200. It's called the ICM Controls ICM870-16A Soft Start.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +5

      Wow good timing. Check out my latest video 😊

    • @shaundenkler810
      @shaundenkler810 29 днів тому +1

      High failure rate for this brand...just removed the failed unit on mine tonight

    • @Capt-Intrepid
      @Capt-Intrepid 29 днів тому

      @@shaundenkler810 Thanks for the feedback. How do you know the failure rate is high?

    • @victork3397
      @victork3397 9 днів тому

      @@shaundenkler810 was it properly sized ? If FLA rating on soft start is lower than the AC nameplate, of course it will fall.

    • @shaundenkler810
      @shaundenkler810 8 днів тому

      @@Capt-Intrepid a simple search will reveal

  • @eugeneroering6813
    @eugeneroering6813 10 місяців тому

    Just ordered a soft start for AC unit. This is being added for the home backup power supply being added to my solar panels.

  • @honestman276
    @honestman276 10 місяців тому

    Thanks from Bangladesh.

  • @luismarty1685
    @luismarty1685 Рік тому

    Thak you sir.

  • @SmedleyButler1
    @SmedleyButler1 11 місяців тому

    Great video, you should do one on which would be better for semi permanent install Dwyer magnetic or their Water gravity static pressure meters. Very important for high merv filters people with allergies and illness would benefit from.....also, any tips how to better seal bathroom fans flap from wind blowing in

  • @doriskat7754
    @doriskat7754 Рік тому

    I wish A#1 Air had watched your videos . They installed a 18 seer unit 2 years ago. It made a banging noise on start. 3 inside and 2 outside unit later! They put a hard start on it too. They sent a electrician finally . He said my 1963 wiring needed a ground. Wow no more bang! Now it moaning like a old man. I bet it's the hard start that it didn't need!

    • @normandodson5079
      @normandodson5079 2 місяці тому

      They were probably just guessing and not doing the actual troubleshooting techniques that they were taught.

  • @bobb7918
    @bobb7918 10 місяців тому +1

    My understanding is if your compressor is having issues starting a hard start is what is needed. A soft start will not help. If your compressor is starting without issues a soft start will help it last longer.

  • @kiethlowry2862
    @kiethlowry2862 Місяць тому

    The link took us to the megohmeter video

  • @spinjector
    @spinjector 18 днів тому

    You should do a video that demonstrates the difference in sound before & after.

  • @ericmaurer3337
    @ericmaurer3337 12 днів тому

    You never really said if the soft start unit will work on an older unit that has issues starting when it's 90 degrees out and the thermostat is short cycling. My success came when I found a timer that delays the low voltage by about 10 minutes since last start. It has pretty much eliminated the stalled compressor issue.

  • @weavercattlecompany
    @weavercattlecompany Місяць тому +2

    I've seen plenty of those $400 Soft-Start kits being sold as refurbished units hence they must have a high failure rate seeing how that same company has a ton of them on hand to resell 😈
    Cheapest and factory alternative is to add a start-capacitor (hard-start kit) hence the reason the companies that produce the AC units offer this kit in the first place. This also decreases starting amps because the extra capacitance decreases reactance which allows more current flow through the START windings increasing it's field strength which spins the rotor over easier 😊

  • @mrjoehimself
    @mrjoehimself Місяць тому

    oop yup you do!! awesome!

  • @danstojic5643
    @danstojic5643 Рік тому +3

    Hi David, nice video, I think you meant to say 3100 w instead of 31 w. 😊

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +2

      Hehe thank you. I’m always saying the wrong thing 🤪

  • @bobloblaw10001
    @bobloblaw10001 Рік тому +1

    With a soft start installed is a 3 to 5 minute compressor start delay still necessary? I have a 4 ton 12+ year old Ruud compressor/condenser R410a system.
    With a soft start installed at the condenser unit I think the delay built into the thermostat would still be there. My system currently runs the AC blower fan (but not condenser fan) more or less immediately but compressor and condenser fan kick on 3 minutes later.
    I would like to reduce this delay if it's possible and safe to do so because I'm in the sunbelt south and my ducts are in the attic so during much of the day for those 3 minutes it's mostly blowing around hot humid air.
    Thanks for your great videos. You are the best on UA-cam for explaining fairly technical AC stuff to non-professionals.

  • @Andrew-gu1zr
    @Andrew-gu1zr 10 місяців тому

    Great content... Just had to put a cap on my downstairs unit. It's getting old and its a R22 unit. I haven't checked starting amps but I'm guessing it would be better to install a hard start kit VS the soft start?

  • @steveavant9727
    @steveavant9727 10 місяців тому

    My Rheem AC outdoor unit refuses to run on generator unless I bypass the circuit board on the outdoor unit. It’s a three ton, about five years old and the generator is a 22kw whole house unit, which should be more than adequate to run a three ton heat pump system. The outdoor unit will attempt to start and then drop out. I suspect that when it starts, the voltage at the contactor and circuit board are dropping below a threshold which causes the circuit board to drop the contactor. I plan to do more checks to confirm this, including checking the indications of the diagnostic LEDs on the circuit board. Perhaps the soft start kit will be the answer. Thanks for all your great content.

  • @MJHanneman82
    @MJHanneman82 Рік тому +1

    Great video, is there anything preventing me from using one of these soft start kits on my 240v water pump? I need to find a way to bring down my inrush at start up so my inverter stops faulting out.

  • @scottthomson120
    @scottthomson120 11 місяців тому

    Will the soft-starter help eliminate the dreaded terminal burn off? Thanks for posting the video.

  • @sunnysacto
    @sunnysacto 6 місяців тому

    Soft start kit is best way I can recover cost for DIY solar battery system during hot summer peak hr power cost.

  • @irishsamurai9008
    @irishsamurai9008 2 місяці тому +1

    Do you have a video for putting one on a fridge

  • @Jcg90725
    @Jcg90725 11 місяців тому +3

    Will this void warranty?

  • @Honestandtruth
    @Honestandtruth Рік тому +1

    I bought this Easy Start Micro Air, but not yet install.... Still Working on my Ply-wood Muffler Silencer to Reduce Noise Level to 56-58 at 15 ft. During an Outage

  • @Nottherapist
    @Nottherapist Місяць тому

    Hard start kits help generators run house hvac units as well. Stored energy blasting the power hungry compressor puts less strain on your generator.
    The running amps should be the same with both kits, right? That's what I was hoping you'd go over.

  • @badjuju98
    @badjuju98 23 дні тому

    I just had a condenser installed, should I go ahead and install a hard start kit?

  • @MrBumbles2
    @MrBumbles2 10 місяців тому

    i did the icm on my sisters package unit, its 3 yrs old, being in eastern NC when hurricane's come i had to put a window ac in for her being her generator was only 4000 watts , it would run the well pump , frig and window ac , she could keep her bedroom cool. the icm clearly quiets her unit . i live next door about 100 ft and could hear her unit kick on while i was watching tv. not no more , i cant hear it at all unless im outside.. so i tried out her generator after icm install and it fires her package unit right up , she can watch tv , frig runs etc. did a 24 hr test had no issues,,, need to get her a 13,500 watt like i have but she can now at least cool her place and not live in her bedroom during a storm. but im going to do solar mini split 24 k and then put my generator at her place.. Ice storm ive already put in a 5 brick propane heater for her being she has propane stove,, so heat isn't a issue. like today its 105 pool is 93 .

  • @ArthriticAngler
    @ArthriticAngler 10 місяців тому

    Does a soft start quiet the initial clunk of the start up

  • @rokkuanii6922
    @rokkuanii6922 4 місяці тому

    Care to am an updated video on hard start? Something like your Capacitor video. In depth. Ty 👌

  • @La2venida
    @La2venida 19 днів тому

    Does the soft start save on energy

  • @koningbolo4700
    @koningbolo4700 Місяць тому

    Thank you for the lesson Mr. DIY HVAC.
    I wonder what device would work best in an off grid campervan situation in which a battery bank supplies 12V power to an inverter which runs (among other things like lighting, a couple of low amp PC fans and some electronics) a 65 W (inrush at least 400W) compressor cooler and a very small (DIY) mini split type system based on a the heat pump components of a tumble dryer which has a rated power use of about 450 W - inrush probably around 1.2 kW)
    I have an inverter installed of 1500 W (which can peak deliver around 3000W for a couple of seconds (8-10 or so)
    If a slow start or hard start helper can be used to help start both the cooler and the micro split (so to speak) that would make a lot of difference in power use and current spikes...
    Your opinion please...

  • @ahmetpamuk84
    @ahmetpamuk84 11 місяців тому +1

    Have question. Hope you can help me with it. Which one is better: "Micro-Air EasyStart" or "ICM870" ? I see that ICM870 is way cheaper.

  • @neptunepoolsserviceandrepa2529
    @neptunepoolsserviceandrepa2529 10 місяців тому +1

    What if my ac already has a hard start kit installed from the manufacturer? Will a soft start work on that unit? I'm trying to reduce peak hour amp consumption in arizona.

  • @AndresRodriguez-sk6xr
    @AndresRodriguez-sk6xr 11 днів тому

    Great video, thanks for the information. I have a 2005 Rheem AC unit with a 2.4 Ton Copeland compressor. At this time it is working fine. I recently replaced the contactor, cables and the capacitor(installed a Amrad 35/10 with CPT) as maintenance. Do you recommend installing (or not) a Hard or Soft Start kit for this setup? Just thinking in the nonsense prices of the new units, I just want to make the actual system to last as long as possible. Thanks!

  • @biden-putin-stalin
    @biden-putin-stalin 10 місяців тому

    Does the ICM 870 have a 4 minute delay on every start cycle for the compressor? This would allow the air handler in the attic to run 4 minutes before the compressor comes on.

  • @neonnight34609
    @neonnight34609 11 місяців тому

    can these be put on a unit with a 2 stage compressor ?

  • @pfunk360
    @pfunk360 29 днів тому

    I have a stand alone generator on my home. When the AC unit kicks on the lights dem or flicker for a second. Can I still use the Micro-Air Soft start, if I have the generator or is it not wise to install it.

  • @coolmaster121
    @coolmaster121 Рік тому +1

    doesn't the soft start have a built in hard start unit in it?

  • @jimfields9491
    @jimfields9491 5 місяців тому

    So would the soft start cut your power bill?

  • @dj5752
    @dj5752 6 місяців тому

    Great content. I have an older Tempstar 3 ton. 88 LAR, 16 RLA. TEMPSTAR IS MADE BY CARRIER. 20 YEARS OLD. Which model soft start do you recommend? Much appreciated.

  • @bryanaveri6816
    @bryanaveri6816 9 місяців тому

    There are many wires that co-connect to the A/C House power. Do you believe that the Soft Start could be installed with a switch for the only wire that is bypassed, so you have the option of Hard Start and Soft Start?

  • @RichardWard-ez6nn
    @RichardWard-ez6nn 29 днів тому

    I love the idea that i can run on a 5500 watt gen during a power outage (hurricane central FL)but Does a soft start installation void a warranty on the heat pump or HVAC SYSTEM?

  • @carmenlena2010
    @carmenlena2010 10 місяців тому

    I am connecting a Duramax XP13000HXT generator to my house with a 5 ton ac unit. Would I use a soft start or hard start to be able to run my AC?

  • @AL-pb1lb
    @AL-pb1lb 11 місяців тому +1

    Appreciate the vdos bro. I have a 4 ton unit that starts with my Duramax 12,000. Should I consider putting a soft start on? The unit is 2 yrs old. Thanks again for great vdos.

    • @everss02
      @everss02 10 місяців тому

      A 521 hard start also reduces inrush alot. My 4 ton went from 107 to 48. You can not worry about leaving other breakers on the whole AC is running

  • @giljunior7494
    @giljunior7494 11 місяців тому

    Okay.
    So, if I can not use a hard start kit on my mini-split unit, can I use a Micro Air easy start then ???

  • @tedmiller1745
    @tedmiller1745 Місяць тому

    Thinking Soft Start is best for power outage using a generator. 2.5 Tons and 8750 Inverter Gen? What ya think?

  • @ernesthiggs7677
    @ernesthiggs7677 10 місяців тому

    I have a 14 year old Carrier duel stage. Should I use a Hard Start or Soft Start?

  • @volt8399
    @volt8399 3 місяці тому

    is there a bluetooth issue identifier/ debugger I can install without the soft start capability?

  • @jimbergen5232
    @jimbergen5232 Місяць тому +1

    I see below someone else suggested a soft start that was cheaper. I prefer if I buy something, I buy it once and quality. Do you still highly recommend the Micro-Air? Funny the next vid played and it was not yours, but that HV guy said the soft start caused havoc.

  • @interstatebullly3nyg551
    @interstatebullly3nyg551 Місяць тому

    If you have 2 units in thst case you can run a hard start on one unit and a sidt stsrt on another ? Depending on hpw old each unit is and whats best to gey the compressor running?

  • @alfredoalequin
    @alfredoalequin 11 місяців тому +2

    I just want to clarify that both systems can be used to start the air conditioner compressor with a generator provided that the steady amperage used by the compressor is below the generator output. This applies for both systems. The reason a generator normally does not start the compressor is because of the peak amperage used to start it which lasts less than a second. Both systems avoid pulling a peak amperage from the grid.

  • @richardgoff6739
    @richardgoff6739 4 дні тому

    Is it advisable to install the separate relay in the a hard start kit? The built-in canisters have a thermistor as opposed to a relay, which is not very reliable longer term.

  • @theguy6199
    @theguy6199 Рік тому +2

    DIY Guy: When u do the ICM Softstart install video (soon), please include a ' compare and contrast'
    ICM vs MICROAIR...both devices seem comparable, does either device have extra features that the
    other doesn't??

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +3

      Yea the micro air has Bluetooth wheras the icm doesn’t but I will for sure do a side by side comparison on them 👍🏼 cheers

    • @andrejstefanovski
      @andrejstefanovski Рік тому +2

      @@diyhvacguy edit: just saw your link to the 150$ ICM. Original: Mentioning the cheapest soft start available is probably also a good idea. If you want soft start but don't care about Bluetooth, diagnostics, or anything other than lowering inrush current draw. I've got a 9.5kW/12.5kW peak generator which runs the A/C fine, but if there's product out there that'll reduce the inrush current draw in the 50-150$ range, I would definitely spend that to reduce stress on the Generator and maybe benefit the A/C Compressor at the same time. Don't see more than 150$ of value so 350$+ is definitely not happening.

  • @dc_813
    @dc_813 8 місяців тому

    Subscribed!
    So. I have a new-ish home. Built in 2019. 2 Carrier AC units. 1.5 ton and 3.0 ton. I have no home generator. Both units work perfect but they start HARD.
    If I want to extent the life of these units, it sounds like I need to put a soft start on each one of the compressors, no?
    I'd use a hard start kit once they get up in age (10 years+), correct?

  • @tdlin1721
    @tdlin1721 Місяць тому

    Some SPP6 hard start kits are for PSC motor only. How do I know if it can be used for my AC?

  • @ferrisbrowner3428
    @ferrisbrowner3428 8 місяців тому

    I have a 4Ton heat pump, I want to add tis to my unit? Do see any problem doing that? I didn't mention my heat pump is 14 seer.

  • @curtchase3730
    @curtchase3730 8 днів тому

    Is there a soft start kit that will work with a newer window shaker? I recently bought "cheap" 6Kbtu unit rated 11seer. Yes, it surges when starting, but settles down to around 485 watts full running on high. Reason because I have a decent 1500 watt sinewave inverter that pukes out when I try to start AC.

  • @pucheco69
    @pucheco69 11 місяців тому

    Do you have a video on how to install the hard start kit? How do I know if it will work for my older unit?

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  11 місяців тому +1

      Yes I do. You can find it if you scroll through my video library 👍🏼

  • @mikimiki195
    @mikimiki195 Місяць тому

    Great video I like to get soft start at some point but $385 damn that’s steep I wish you have coupon code

  • @wadeconney6507
    @wadeconney6507 Рік тому +2

    Love the channel. I watch so i can try to fix a few things myself. Question for you. My HAVAC guy recommended a soft start I believe to prolong the life of my compressor. 2003 carrier home ac. Any thoughts? Thank you!

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +4

      I personally think that if you want to prolong the life of the ac I’d go with a hard start kit. If you need/want to power your ac with a generator, then I say go with the soft start. Just my .02 cents. Cheers

    • @jwhite4
      @jwhite4 Рік тому

      @@diyhvacguy I thought the Hard Start kit was for units exactly like name implies - perhaps older, wearing out /worn ones, that are "hard at starting", and need the extra boost that the hard start capacitor provides.
      I had a time when my power went out. When it came back on, the compressor started up. Then 20-30 sec later; power out again; a minute later, back on. I thought. "That can't be good for the compressor". So I think a search for "compressor startup delay" let me to the soft start.
      So I'm looking more for something that can help extend the life of an otherwise in good condition compressor. [If mine was starting to have issues, then the hard start kit might be a way to extend it's life, before even that won't help, and it needs to be replaced.]

  • @jmackinjersey1
    @jmackinjersey1 10 місяців тому

    Will the soft start kit add any longevity to the older units? We have a rather large portable generator on our house, and I have been looking into one.
    However, I am a handyman, and one of the houses I work on regularly is rather large, and old(over 120 years). They happen to also have a Standby Generator, but since it is a rather large house with 3 stories and a large addition, they have 4 A/C units on the house.
    They basically got screwed when they had their Generac installed. Lowest bidder scenario. Anyway, the generator needs to be moved, and after talking to a few generator installation companies, we have some to the conclusion that the A/C units should have some sort of soft start device on them, so that it won't be such a hard draw should the electricity go out and all of the units start up before they are able to raise the temps on the individual thermostats.
    So I guess I am asking a 2 part question here. Will the soft starts add or assist in longevity and will 4 soft starts be necessary?

  • @linvol20
    @linvol20 Рік тому +1

    Will the soft start help with the bang noise when it starts. Mine is right by my bed. So i hear it… my guess is the contactor bang is what i hear but im not sure.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +2

      Yes this should help significantly with that!

  • @stephenketrow7350
    @stephenketrow7350 Рік тому

    I would be interested in hearing about, and understanding the calculation, electricity savings when using a soft start to figure out a ROI. Anyone? Or is the soft start really about the ability to use a smaller generator and not the cost savings?

    • @azpcox
      @azpcox Рік тому +2

      For most people, a soft start doesn’t save them money directly, but it does give them options they didn’t have before. The big one being able to run your AC off a generator or solar inverter. The decrease in initial current (inrush current) is what’s great. Otherwise your generator just clicks off because of too much current draw. Or your solar inverter trips again because of too much current.

  • @chrisstephens3196
    @chrisstephens3196 11 місяців тому

    You keep bringing up “old systems”, I have a new 3/4 year old system, would it still be beneficial to install a hard starter? Would installing one extend its life?… Love your videos 👍🏼❤️

    • @Pk3_Garage
      @Pk3_Garage 11 місяців тому

      Adding a Soft Start will help your unit last longer. No so with a hard start.

  • @dadsworld5084
    @dadsworld5084 10 місяців тому

    I have 2 American standard platinum 3.5 and 3-ton units; I was thinking of using the Micro air; however, I heard it could mess with these smart variable units. Do you have any recommendations on this? My units are from 2016m, and I don't want to fry one of them to install the soft start. My AC guy didn't really give me a clear answer on this subject. He did say he had customers that installed it on their and caused problems and had to take off, but don't know if it is true or not since he is making money on the install.

  • @juanmacias4854
    @juanmacias4854 8 днів тому

    The soft start seems to reduce the amp requirement to start the AC much more than the Hard start. I just got a new Lennox 2 stage AC that starts hard, you can hear it kick on from inside. My older unit on the other side of the house is a 2 stage Trane (has 2 compressors) and that one, you can be next to it and you will hear it start but so smooth and quiet. Can a soft start reduce the hard start of the Lennox AC and extend the life of the compressor? I ask as the unit is a 2 stage compressor, when it was first installed it started in high mode, I asked the installers why it started in high, it was apparent that they did not know, they contacted Lennox and made changes to the thermostat settings, but even so it starts Hard but the compressor starts out at a lower speed.

  • @user-ij7hh4vm4c
    @user-ij7hh4vm4c Рік тому +2

    Sorry off topic question, do you recommend to use an air conditioner cover in winter? Live in Canada, have heard yes and no.

    • @NO-END
      @NO-END 11 місяців тому

      I put a make shift board over the top of my condenser to prevent snow and ice damaing the condenser fan, but nothing thats completely covering it due to rodents using it as a nest in winter months. I say no its made to be in the elements.

  • @tdlin1721
    @tdlin1721 Місяць тому

    Can a hard start kit still reduce the starting amp requirement from a generator even though it reduces only about 50% instead about 7% for a soft start kit? My Generac 24KW standby generator would dim lights during AC started. A hard start kit should reduce its loads to avoid dimming the lights. Is this true?

  • @buggyboy1140
    @buggyboy1140 11 місяців тому

    Hello, love your channel. I have learned a lot about the cooling/heating system from your channel!
    Question: Can I add a 5-2-1 Hard Start kit to a 5 ton Variable Speed Daikin Heat Pump?

  • @bradmuth1014
    @bradmuth1014 Рік тому +3

    I have a new 2.5 ton a/c unit. If i install a soft start kit will my 5k generator run it ok?

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +2

      Heck yea, this thing will allow you to run it on a 3500w generator. You can find the correct size for your system in the video description 👍🏼 cheers

  • @emsaiii
    @emsaiii 2 місяці тому +1

    Check your video: You say you can run your AC on a 31 WATT generator! I think you mean a 31 AMP generator (or 6820 WATTS @ 220 VOLTS.)

    • @integr8er66
      @integr8er66 Місяць тому +1

      He also added a comment correcting his misspeak

    • @integr8er66
      @integr8er66 Місяць тому

      He also added text on the screen correcting himself, and he did not mean 31 amp, he meant 3100 watt

  • @user-kn7cp4me8n
    @user-kn7cp4me8n 10 місяців тому

    Question. Can you intall a soft start if you have a hard start installed?

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  10 місяців тому

      No. One or the other

  • @Hvac-vlogger
    @Hvac-vlogger Рік тому

    Please DO A TRUCK TOUR 🤝🤝🤝🤝

  • @santiagovillarreal6647
    @santiagovillarreal6647 Рік тому

    Can I install a soft start on a Trane system that has a hard start from the factory? I’m assuming no?

    • @danray9744
      @danray9744 Рік тому +4

      Its Called a Start Capacitor when its Factory installed & Yes you can install a Soft Start but you have to disconnect the Factory Start (Hard Start Cap ) First You don't have to remove it just disconnect the 2 wires going to the Run Capacitor C & Herm Terminals from the Hard start Cap & Relay . Soft Starts have a Hard Start Capacitor already installed in the unit

  • @DaveGringo
    @DaveGringo 11 місяців тому +1

    Can you install a hard start kit on a scroll compressor, and should that be done on a older R22 unit that currently doesn't seem to have any problem starting currently?

    • @WhatIsYourCard
      @WhatIsYourCard 11 місяців тому

      Save the money for the start up kit and use that extra money saving up for a new system. Since 2020, anyone with an R22 system is going to kick themselves for spending money on extending it’s life. The R22 hoarded is only going to diminish and all that will remain is recycled refrigerant. Be wise, save your money

    • @DaveGringo
      @DaveGringo 11 місяців тому

      @@WhatIsYourCard Thanks, I know you're correct on this! 👍