This $150 Soft Start Allows You To Run Your A/C With A Generator! Introducing The ICM870

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  • Опубліковано 4 лип 2023
  • All my favorite HVAC tools: www.amazon.com/shop/thediyhva...
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    ICM870-32A ( For A/C Units 4-6 Ton) : amzn.to/3q7kQDG
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 487

  • @socrates2706
    @socrates2706 Рік тому +81

    I watch a lot of videos and you are by far the best teacher on UA-cam. You need to start a HVAC school.👍🏻

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +10

      Thanks man! That means a lot to me!

    • @ProleDaddy
      @ProleDaddy 11 місяців тому +3

      This is an HVAC school. Sit down and be quiet now.

    • @kenfern3365
      @kenfern3365 9 місяців тому

      My unit is 3.5 years old, will this affect my warranty?

    • @jonathanwilliams3000
      @jonathanwilliams3000 8 місяців тому

      @@diyhvacguythis is great but will the running amps shut down the generator?

  • @Optimization_Coach
    @Optimization_Coach 9 місяців тому +33

    I installed 2 Easy Start soft starters on my 4 ton units in June (SW Florida Heat). Last night the upstairs was blowing warm air. I 1st thought the unit had a leak but my tech came out today and the compressor had shut down. He hosed it off and removed the Easy Start from the connections. The compressor worked fine. I asked him to hook it back up to verify it was the soft start and sure enough the compressor would not start up. I have now removed the Easy Start and initiated a support ticket with the company. I expect better from a company selling $300+ soft starters. Cost was only $114 for the diagnotic work because I do have a contract. Just wanted to pass this info along to others in case this happens to you!~

    • @emailjimsylvester
      @emailjimsylvester 6 місяців тому +2

      It looks like the device is no longer sold on Amazon. What a shame that they didn't make it robust enough to last.

    • @aerodoc2
      @aerodoc2 5 місяців тому +2

      I’ve had an easy start on an Rv air conditioner for 3yrs, it has lived an extremely rough life, so far it has worked flawlessly.

    • @MrJasonwoodrow
      @MrJasonwoodrow 4 місяці тому +1

      Since 4 months have passed, did they replace the failed unit? Mine has been working fine for about a year.

    • @baysidefabrication
      @baysidefabrication 3 місяці тому +2

      Same. Mine lasted 7 months (half of that ac was off being winter and all). No lights no nothing. Removed controller and ac works fine.

    • @Optimization_Coach
      @Optimization_Coach 3 місяці тому +4

      @@MrJasonwoodrow they did send a new unit. I will try one more time in April.

  • @pineychristian
    @pineychristian 11 місяців тому +20

    Im going to say this for your knowledge. Im commercial HVAC tech and did residential in my early years. ICM products are top notch. They are used widely directly from the manufacturers as OEM components. From control boards , timers , three phase monitors ect.... the list goes on. Highly recommend this.

  • @mtn_av8r
    @mtn_av8r 11 місяців тому +22

    Fantastic content. I just installed ICM-870 soft starter for my Carrier 2.5T and it works beautifully. The AC is running quietly and it’s now working with backup generator and my DIY Solar inverter. Just a point to add, if on initial start you see a red blinking lights stating over current , just wait for a minute or so and disconnect and retest. The capacitor needs to be fully charged and most of us will short it during installation for safety. Next time, it will run without fault light and only green led will be on. My unit went down from 35 AMP to 6 AMP. What a wonderful kit at the right price.

    • @johndoe-ek6vl
      @johndoe-ek6vl 10 місяців тому +4

      Thanks A LOT for this info it helped me out as this is what happened to me and I've been scouring the net trying to find the solution lol.

    • @jmacd8817
      @jmacd8817 17 днів тому

      ​@johndoe-ek6vl do you completely disconnect soft start, or only certain wires? Thx!

  • @robavis4906
    @robavis4906 Рік тому +2

    Just bought one of the icm870 last week and installed it on my unit. I seen a previous vid of yours and another hvac guy on utube. Really easy to install. I have the same unit as yours but the 3ton version. Good video

  • @williamgates4399
    @williamgates4399 11 місяців тому +15

    The MicroAir offers an installation kit for an additional cost. UPDATE: July 31, 2023. Just finished installing my ICM870-16A on my Goodman condenser. I spend about 15 minutes on installation. Your video really simplified the installation process.

    • @boeing757pilot
      @boeing757pilot 11 місяців тому +1

      If you don't mind, did you see any benefits? I'm thinking about installing one on a Goodman..

    • @richard6150
      @richard6150 9 місяців тому

      More questions... does the blower fan come on for 4 minutes before the compressor starts? Also, how may tons is your Goodman ? Thanks for sharing.

    • @bigredwag
      @bigredwag 27 днів тому

      Still running? Any issues?

  • @moonlandercmdr64
    @moonlandercmdr64 10 місяців тому +2

    Got my order, ICM870-16A today, got off work installed it, and cleaned my fins in less than an hour. Thank you for showing this.

  • @joeyoungs8426
    @joeyoungs8426 2 місяці тому +3

    Thanks to this video I had the info I needed to complete the job. I ordered my 32A version for a 4 ton from Supply House 10 months ago just when there was a parts shortage so I just finished the install. I had little room in the compressor compartment so I used a 10x8 weatherproof box for mine. It comes with a fairly generous whip so just enough wire without making any jumper extensions. The four minute delay when it detects a power issue seems a bit excessive but otherwise works like a charm. I simulated a power issue by plugging/unplugging the disconnect a couple three times before seating it properly. The compressor fan came on and it immediately went to fault with no compressor and after four minutes the compressor spun up and light went green. Though the instructions are pretty clear this video really reinforces the process and makes it a no brainer. Thanks for the tutorial!!

  • @rodz6331
    @rodz6331 9 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for presenting this video in a clear and easy-to-understand manner. I appreciate the effort you put into making it accessible.

  • @kevinr5187
    @kevinr5187 11 місяців тому +5

    Awesome info. I went to ac school and left the residential and commercial field after a couple of years. The Texas heat and attics was brutal. Now I am an HVAC operator at a facility with 6 3000 ton chillers. I forgot so much about residential over the years, I really enjoy your videos.😊

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  11 місяців тому +1

      Glad you like em! Cheers man

  • @edwardgraham2566
    @edwardgraham2566 11 місяців тому +12

    My local guys were willing to do this job for $3000 --- thanks for the video!

    • @cu2tonite
      @cu2tonite Місяць тому +1

      Is that a typo? How many zeros did you intend on putting after the 3?

  • @TheDtdunne
    @TheDtdunne 11 місяців тому +2

    This is the video that explains it in easy terms for the amateur. Thanks it's perfect.

  • @dave29339
    @dave29339 11 місяців тому +6

    This is exactly what I was looking for! The MicroAir unit is nice but I don't need or want the extra features. The ICM 870 will be perfect!

  • @bruceplourde4389
    @bruceplourde4389 10 місяців тому +3

    Thank you so much for this video and did this install easily!!! Just note the new ICW install the red light will blink for 4 minutes and then turn to green once it starts the compressor. I got the 32 amp version for my 5ton unit! Keep up the great work!!!

    • @richard6150
      @richard6150 9 місяців тому

      Does that model ICW run the blower for 4 minutes, each time, before the compressor kicks in ? Thanks

  • @williamgates4399
    @williamgates4399 Рік тому +4

    This was the video I was looking for. I have been debating between these two products. I go for the economic approach. You don't have to learn on the ICM Controls 870-16A Soft Starter as you do on the MicroAir system. The MicroAir offers a installation kit for additional cost.

  • @db8823
    @db8823 11 місяців тому +3

    I bought one a d the instructions stated NOT to be installed outdoors. I bought a nice small hinged latching box from Amazon and mounted that on AC with the softstart inside that. Installing today.

  • @user-nh3zg7uf6s
    @user-nh3zg7uf6s Рік тому

    Their right, when ever I watch your videos I say he shoud teach, you are very skilled!

  • @darnell3832
    @darnell3832 15 днів тому

    You my friend is a life saver, thank you for sharing your knowledge with us common folks lol. You are truly appreciated, our power goes out often during storms and the generator struggles when we try and turn on the ac.

  • @tonymedina7466
    @tonymedina7466 10 місяців тому +2

    Thanks for the Install video. I was able to install the ICM870-32A using your video. It was quick and precise. Really appreciate it.

    • @javiermontes3777
      @javiermontes3777 9 місяців тому

      Where are you by yours because I cannot find it nowhere

  • @davidsimon6011
    @davidsimon6011 Рік тому

    I wish I knew about this product before I bought my Soft Start RV....:) Thanks again for another great video 👍

  • @xerialklr
    @xerialklr 11 місяців тому +4

    I installed this on my 3 ton. I watch his install video. Worked just like he said... For a week. Brand new compressor with an RLA of 11amps (well within range of the 16amp model). Managed to get a replacement and got a professional to install it. Ran like a top... For a week then same code, can't detect compressor. Removed the device and Reconnected everything to stock and the compressor works fine.

    • @dkraft
      @dkraft 10 місяців тому +3

      This is why I put 32A unit on my 3 ton. RLA and Reality are not the same on VFD. been running for 4 months thru August heat!

    • @xerialklr
      @xerialklr 10 місяців тому +2

      @@dkraft it should work running at 65% darn it

  • @georgeclayjr.2499
    @georgeclayjr.2499 10 місяців тому +1

    Bro! Your videos rock! You would make an excellent instructor. Once again, excellent video!

  • @6881237
    @6881237 11 місяців тому

    Best instructions, I couldn't install it the first time with the manufacturer video.
    Thanks

  • @brucemadden1626
    @brucemadden1626 Рік тому +1

    EXCELLENT---thank you so much for this excellent upgrade for us DIYs

  • @jamess1787
    @jamess1787 Рік тому

    You're doing a great job with your channel. Keep it up. 🤜🤛

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +1

      Thanks man! 100k was a huge milestone!

  • @Eduardo-mb7dt
    @Eduardo-mb7dt Рік тому +7

    The 32A is coming out in mid-August. I was told by their customer service.

  • @hdcsp3
    @hdcsp3 Рік тому

    Good stuff friend. I'm all down with this at the better price point. As I stated last video...I've priced out and have ordered all that's needed, gennie included to be all good when the shi* hits the fan.
    Many many thanks for the guidance

  • @athenanimbuss6826
    @athenanimbuss6826 Рік тому

    Wow, good info. Thanks again for taking the time to make all these very informative videos 👍 ❤🙏

  • @frankeversley5541
    @frankeversley5541 20 днів тому

    Awesome! I love your clear and concise instructions in this video.

  • @poolfixer
    @poolfixer 11 місяців тому +3

    Great video and awesome information! I have the Micro-air for my Trane 4-ton A/C-only system, which works great. As you mentioned, The price was steep, but I felt better when you said ICM didn't have a kit for > 4-ton units. Before installing the Micro-air, my inrush amps were 133.9, and with the Micro-air installed, my inrush amps are always right around 35 amps. I'm not sure about the ICM unit, but another thing I liked about the Micro-air unit is that my condenser fan comes on first, and then after five seconds, it kicks on the compressor.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  11 місяців тому +1

      Yea I like that about the micro air units too. Pretty slick. They look rad too!

    • @javiermontes3777
      @javiermontes3777 9 місяців тому

      Where I can buy this I cannot find it nowhere

  • @thomasjacques5286
    @thomasjacques5286 11 місяців тому

    Getting ready to install solar panels with some battery backups and our solar contractor mentioned I would need a "soft start" device to tame my 14.1 LRA on our 3-ton Lennox AC that way we can power the entire house from the batteries including AC. Gonna install the ICM870, they wanted more.

  • @Shmade0304
    @Shmade0304 10 місяців тому

    Man you are awesome for this content 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽⚡️

  • @Hail2MasterChief
    @Hail2MasterChief 11 місяців тому

    Excellent video! Thank you!

  • @diyenthusiast7458
    @diyenthusiast7458 Рік тому +11

    What about build quality/operating life for these units ? And warranty? That might also help decide if the extra $ of Micro Aire is worth it. Thanks for all the info.

  • @LouisS-cs7bh
    @LouisS-cs7bh 11 місяців тому +1

    Can you do a video with step by step instructions on installing the ICM493? With all of the inverter systems available, I think it would be beneficial for your audience!! Thanks for the detailed videos!!

    • @jamesnasium7036
      @jamesnasium7036 8 місяців тому

      The variable speed inverter driven compressors like those commonly found in the current generation of mini split heat pumps are inherently soft starting. There is no large inrush current.

  • @skyscraper37
    @skyscraper37 Рік тому +1

    I just put the icm870 on my unit. Works good for it for 150…easy install. My unit has lra70 amps. I don’t know before and after as I don’t have an ampclamp the does inrush. Mounted in the condenser

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому

      I’m sure it lowered it to 20 amps if not less. Glad you are happy with it!

  • @goldblueberries326
    @goldblueberries326 Рік тому +1

    Thank so much for this video

  • @rankandrent360
    @rankandrent360 4 місяці тому

    Fantastic. You sold me. I had our house wired for a generator but couldn't run the HVAC. Now I can, thanks to your tutorial. My question is, why don't all HVAC systems come with a soft start?? Also, how many amps does a typical electric furnace draw?

  • @123brexy
    @123brexy 11 місяців тому +2

    I can see how a soft start kit can extend the life of equipment. However, as long as you have a quality generator running your AC in not an issue. Also, a soft start kit is not necessary with Inverter units.

  • @MixMeMcGee
    @MixMeMcGee 11 місяців тому

    That ending 🫶🥲 so good. Thanks!

  • @julious3603
    @julious3603 Рік тому

    Great video!!!

  • @realvanman1
    @realvanman1 11 місяців тому +2

    The capacitor is discharged practically instantly through the motor windings when the motor is taken off the line. Just the same, it is good to treat them with respect as they can bite if they’re in a circuit that does not inherently discharge them.

    • @Do_the_Dishes
      @Do_the_Dishes 11 місяців тому +4

      Bad advice. Not all systems are wired this way and will leave a charge on the capacitor. Some capacitors have a bleeder resistor running across the spade connectors to allow discharge. I noticed in this video, that this capacitor does not have a bleeder resistor on it. That being said, you can push in the contactor after power is off and this will sometimes discharge the capacitor substantially without putting a nice arc on your tool.

    • @richard6150
      @richard6150 9 місяців тому

      @@Do_the_Dishes Can you also just short the capacitor to ground to discharge it?

    • @Do_the_Dishes
      @Do_the_Dishes 9 місяців тому

      @@richard6150 I wouldn’t count on that Richard. It is assuming that particular part of the circuit has a reference to ground. Since the motor starter contacts are not engaged while off, circuits are not complete and may not find a path to ground. It’s always fun to just disconnect the assembly with insulated tools, throw the cap to a fellow shop mate and say catch. 😊

  • @MackDaddy8154
    @MackDaddy8154 13 днів тому

    Hey brother, great video channel no doubt. Certainly, do appreciate all the effort! I'm curious if these will save a bit on $$$ electric use over the long run? I'd assume so, as the in rush current use and (from what some others have stated) run current drops a bit as well. This may be a pipe dream, but if it saves a bit on "juice use" as well that would be great. Extending the life of the compressor is the big Elephant in the room. I'm not so concerned with a generator hookup use; we rarely have outages (knocks on wood.) Rock on my man, best to you and yours!

  • @alex-sd
    @alex-sd 10 місяців тому

    Amazing device!! I can definitely use this in my old Rheem. Can you use this on the newest heat pumps too?

  • @rickydale1347
    @rickydale1347 11 місяців тому +2

    The run winding’s power wire formerly the red wire on the contactor that was removed then connected to the
    Brown wire. Now the run winding must get it’s power from the red wire connected to C on the DRC then sends it to the soft start and out the brown brown wire to the original red run wire to the run winding. That wasn’t mentioned so it threw me off. You make well explained videos. I’ve watched several.

  • @DougWehner
    @DougWehner 24 дні тому

    Extremely easy to install and so far, no issues and good results. Would this have similar benefits for a heat pump heating and cooling system? Thanks for presenting this so easy to understand. Also, the nutdriver you recommend is great as well!

  • @DriftoMunkeE
    @DriftoMunkeE 9 місяців тому +1

    Great videos! I have a question. My home outside unit has a loud buzzing noise after power blip happens in my house and the AC was running during the power blip last time this happened and knocked the power out in the whole house. Would this item be something to prevent that or is there something else to install that will prevent the compressor from jamming up on a power blip?

  • @LyleSpencerKirby
    @LyleSpencerKirby 11 місяців тому

    Thank you, looking at an RV application.

  • @keovongvilaykeo4799
    @keovongvilaykeo4799 Рік тому

    Awesome thanks 🙏 you 😊

  • @seanwilson6521
    @seanwilson6521 Рік тому

    Great presentation, thank you. What I need is something for my camping ac. It's a 5,000 btu window unit I want to run on my solar generator. I currently have the capacity to run it, I just want to make it easier. Any advice would be appreciated.

  • @RichardDesrosier
    @RichardDesrosier Рік тому +5

    Just wanted to let you know on the website it does say that it needs to be enclosed in a separate box or installed like you did yours. It does not like water.

  • @hitekrednek66
    @hitekrednek66 Рік тому +3

    Great info sir! For those of us not in da know....what is advan😢tage of soft start over a hard start kit? I was under impression that a hard start kit was another reason why we would want to add a hard start kit was the ease of adding some help for starting scroll compressors on a genny or on reg utility. Just trying to understand why i would spend 10x the money for this apparatus. Thanks showing us the options!😮

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +4

      The main advantage is to be able to run your air conditioner on a generator in the event of an emergency.

    • @hitekrednek66
      @hitekrednek66 Рік тому +2

      It's better than hard start kit? Just trying to decide if I should upgrade.

    • @johndoe-ek6vl
      @johndoe-ek6vl 11 місяців тому +1

      @@hitekrednek66 it's much easier on the components as it gently ramps the compressor up rather than hitting it with a ton of power from a dead start.

    • @hitekrednek66
      @hitekrednek66 11 місяців тому

      @@johndoe-ek6vl thank you sir!

  • @korishan
    @korishan 10 місяців тому +3

    This is probably one of those items that should be installed regardless if using a Generator or not. Using that many less amps to start a device (regardless if an A/C or not) will save a lot of money down the road on power costs, and save money on repair costs as well.
    It would be interesting how many kWh's it saves over the course of a day, but I'm sure it's not going to be insignificant.

    • @nobytes2
      @nobytes2 10 місяців тому

      The inrush last a few ms, highly doubt you'll see a huge difference in power consumption. However I agree this protects the compressor in the long run plus quiet start.

    • @korishan
      @korishan 10 місяців тому +3

      @@nobytes2 From my tests I've seen inrush as long as 2 seconds spiking 3-5x the running amps. So in worse case situation, if a motor is rated at 5A, 5x is 15A @ 220V = 3300W. Just 20 cycles would add up to an hour, which can be done in a day or 2 easy depending on location, which gives about 66,000Wh
      And at my power costs, $0.11/kWh, this would yield $7.16/day, or 2! That's a HUGE difference if the soft start can keep this from happening.
      Again, this is "worst" case numbers.
      But don't think just because a surge current 'only' lasts a few seconds that it's inconsequential. It's add up over time

    • @richardbrown6887
      @richardbrown6887 9 місяців тому +3

      @@korishan Math check needed here - - - - -
      Yes, if the rush current spike is 15 amps, 15 times 220 is 3300 Watts.
      (But you probably have 120/240 volt service)
      If that spike lasts 2 seconds, how many Watt-Hours is that?
      One hour is 60 seconds per minute times 60 minutes per hour, so 60 X 60 = 3600 seconds in one hour.
      For two seconds per 3300 Watt startup-pulse, that is 2/3600 hours each startup, or 1/1800 of 3300 Watt-Hours. 3300/1800 = 1.83 Watt-Hours.
      Then using your 20 starts per day, 1.8 Watt-Hours per start, times 20 starts is 36.6 Watt-Hours per day.
      Dividing by 1000 to convert to kWhrs = 0.0366 kWhrs.
      At your electric rate of $0.11 per kWhr, that is 0..0366 X $0.11 = $0.004 PER DAY.
      Yeah, that IS non-zero, but to me seems inconsequential.
      Does it add up over time? You are in Florida, so you run your unit 24 X 365?
      Then per year, $.004 X 365 = $1.47.
      Big Macs here, near NYC, are $5.00+.
      Your treat with the savings from your soft-start?
      Rich

  • @darrellbrown8547
    @darrellbrown8547 10 місяців тому +1

    Hi Dave, great tutorial. I bought the ICM870-32A soft start, and installed it yesterday. All went well with the AC for about 12 hours then I get a "Fault #3", high current. I disconnected the soft start and the AC ran fine. Any thoughts? Darrell.

  • @rundmm
    @rundmm Рік тому +3

    You decreased in-rush by around 85%, does this brand of soft start decrease other higher amp AC's by 85%? I have a soft start on mine and it used to have an in-rush of 69 amps before soft start and now, the in-rush is 42 amps. Seems fine but no where near the drop you are seeing. If I could drop the in-rush by a few more amps, I could power everything in the house with my generator. Hell, I could get some good ecoflow batteries and run the whole house on a power outage. By the way, this is a very good demonstration of how to do what you are talking about. My electrician did not explain anything to me.

  • @mbourd25
    @mbourd25 10 місяців тому +2

    Hi, thanks for sharing your knowledge. One question, are soft starts available in Canada or even, allowed to be installed in ACs in Canada? Thanks again

  • @botheodore5005
    @botheodore5005 9 місяців тому

    I bought the 16 amp for my 3 1/2 ton split unit that is about two years old. I installed it according to your instructions, which were fine, however, after three weeks, my compressor would no longer start. I ended up returning the part. Probably gonna try the more expensive micro air.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  9 місяців тому

      Bummer. Sorry to hear that!

  • @arth.4196
    @arth.4196 Рік тому

    Awesome price drop

  • @Standing_Wolf
    @Standing_Wolf 9 місяців тому +1

    Good luck getting the ICM32. I ordered it for about a month or more. They said I would get it on the 19th of September. They took my money after they took my money. They sent me an email telling me I won't get it till mid-December. I am sure if I call to cancel the order. They will probably return my money in December. Also before I ordered. I wasn't sure of the 16 or 32. So I called. I was not able to get any support. A voice mail would come on and tell me that all support people were not there. Then it would tell me that the mailbox was full. Then would hang up on me. SO BEWARE BEFORE YOU BUY FROM ICM!!!!!!

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  9 місяців тому +1

      Wow, what a nightmare. Hopefully they get their affairs in order soon. Sorry you are having to deal with that!

  • @EVMANVSGAS
    @EVMANVSGAS 10 місяців тому +2

    Thanks for the video. The 32A version has been delayed until the end of the year now. Do you think the 16A will work on my 17.9A heat pump? If not do you know what other brand/model would work? If like to get this before a hurricane hit me in central FL. Thanks

  • @edo153
    @edo153 10 місяців тому

    I have a central ac unit that was already there when I purchased the house. It’s been there since 1992. Very old unit but still works well. Just uses a lot of electricity.
    Does it make sense to replace all the attic hoses with insulted ones. And then replace the ac unit and the furnace. Trying to split up the costs.

  • @MD.ImNoScientician
    @MD.ImNoScientician 9 місяців тому +1

    @diyhvacguy
    Do you have any alternative to the ICM870 units if they are not available on Amazon currently?
    Thanks for your instructive videos. Great Teacher!

  • @user-xc7dp8zw3o
    @user-xc7dp8zw3o Рік тому

    Getting ready for "grid-down" situations, buying a soft start for my central HVAC soon, but elder neighbor wants to know if there are anything like this for 240V AC window units? His is a 10,000-15,000 BTU unit. I don’t know how many TON(S) it is.
    Thanks for educating us, keep up the great work

    • @1badsj
      @1badsj 11 місяців тому +1

      It is around 12,000 BTU per ton. So that unit is around 1 ton give or take.

  • @michelleann10000
    @michelleann10000 Рік тому

    Thanks!

  • @adventureswithfrodo2721
    @adventureswithfrodo2721 9 місяців тому

    I had this done.

  • @Brian-L
    @Brian-L Рік тому +2

    I don’t have a need to run with a generator, but will these devices help improve compressor longevity?

  • @dpoulson
    @dpoulson 2 місяці тому

    Thanks so much for all you do to help us diyer’s out. You may have already answered this question. I’d like to know what numbers on or near the model # and S/N # will tell me what ton conditioner I have? Thanks again!

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  2 місяці тому

      I will do a video on this. Thanks for the idea!

  • @henrythompson5624
    @henrythompson5624 11 місяців тому

    Thank this is all I need in I get to save some cash this is perfect for me

  • @6319ghostrider
    @6319ghostrider 10 місяців тому +1

    I had to install a hard start kit to my AC this summer. I would like to install a Slow Start Kit.
    Do I remove the hard start kit to do this?
    And will the Slow Start kit take the place of the hard start kit needed previously if removed?

  • @wilsonle61
    @wilsonle61 11 місяців тому

    I had a soft start installed with my new AC last year. It had to be removed as it would fail at the top of the day. I have been hesitant to install another since.

  • @GoodmanMIke59
    @GoodmanMIke59 2 місяці тому +1

    This is very good and straightforward but you should have shown how to discharge the capacitor (which you later did) with a screwdriver. You also should have shown removing the compressor wire from the contacts. ... And I'm still waiting for you at 9:25 to put something back where you took that red wire off.
    Not completely necessary because the Spade connector was insulated, but a lot of people would have used heat shrink.

    • @seandixon11
      @seandixon11 2 місяці тому

      I finally figure this all out. This video was a huge help except my run wire is yellow not red or black as Goettl told me. I found the compressor wire which was yellow. And when I connnected to brown wire it didn’t start right away. I waited 2 minutes and it started working. When I did 2nd AC it worked from the start.
      Video should show exactly where red compressor wire came from. Another video showed it came off the main terminal.

  • @PrincessAlexisfuntime
    @PrincessAlexisfuntime Рік тому +4

    Wow, great video. If I don’t have a generator or problems with flickering light, and all I want is to extend the life of my compressor, would you recommend the 5-2-1 instead? Or LEAVE IT ALONE, if not broken don’t try to fix it?

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Рік тому +1

      I had a hard start kit installed on mine before I put in the soft start so I can run it off my generator. So I say do a 5-2-1 hard start if you have no interest in using a generator to power it 👍🏼

  • @danieladamscheck7977
    @danieladamscheck7977 Рік тому +2

    Question: Is there any wisdom in installing these on a new 2023 system? Will it void a warranty? My 18 year old Payne system pulls 39.90 at startup, runs about 10.27 after that. I have a new system coming next week.

  • @markkempton4579
    @markkempton4579 Рік тому +1

    Thanks for sharing this option.
    Personally, it would help to see a little more detail, like HOW you attached the red wire to the capacitor. Did you remove something else that was there, etc?
    Thanks!

    • @Crysalis02010
      @Crysalis02010 11 місяців тому +2

      No - most of these capacitors have multiple spades available.

  • @bobkantor4695
    @bobkantor4695 10 місяців тому

    Great video! Thanks for this. BTW, could you please advise how we determine what the rating in tons is of our AC unit? Thanks.

    • @1badsj
      @1badsj 10 місяців тому +1

      Look in the middle of the model number.
      024 2 ton
      030 2.5 ton
      036 3 ton
      048 4 ton
      060 5 ton
      12K BTU = 1ton

  • @gccooley
    @gccooley 11 місяців тому

    Is there a SOFT START for home WATER PUMPS? I need to lower the inrush current for using a generator or back up battery and inverter.

  • @anthonygennace4202
    @anthonygennace4202 11 місяців тому

    Very good video. Just curious, how can you tell if the ICM870 9a/16a itself is faulty and not working or causing a fault 11:31

  • @luizfl
    @luizfl 3 місяці тому

    Nice video. Thanks. I measured mine and started with 9 and stabilized in 11 amps. I saw your at 32. Where i am wrong ?

  • @TheBucktowncrazy
    @TheBucktowncrazy 9 місяців тому +1

    Question, I see you listed 3 different soft start. I have a 3.5 ton ac. Would i need to purchase the 4 to 5 ton soft start? Thanks

  • @MikeInTomball
    @MikeInTomball 10 місяців тому

    I have two capacitors. The smaller one is for the fan. Can I combine them into a dual capacitor in correct size?

  • @hinene
    @hinene 11 місяців тому +2

    5 amps after the installation? That is the fan motor current, check the inrush after the compressor starts. I installed the micro air and it was drawing close to 40 amps of inrush current at first. after the installation, it only draws about 25 inrush, then drops to 12 amps compressor running. I guess that is the nice thing about micro air, you get all the details in the app. BTW, do not get me wrong, it is a nice video showing the installation. Thanks.!

    • @VAFlash
      @VAFlash Місяць тому

      I agree. I didn't hear the compressor at all, just the fan.

  • @my-yt-inputs2580
    @my-yt-inputs2580 13 годин тому

    Watching this a year after published and now these things are approaching the $300 mark on Amazon.

  • @radcrubmx583
    @radcrubmx583 Рік тому +12

    Thank you for this comparison, very helpful. Can you please consider connecting the Micro-Air to that same unit and see if it's capable of bringing the in-rush amps below the 5.1 achieved with the ICM (with the reported number being after 5 starts due to learning)? This would be an additional (and important) element in helping one to decide which one is "better" given their preferences and environment. If it's capable of being more effective in limiting the in-rush amperage, it may be worth it to some to spend the additional money. Thanks so much!

    • @srica7366
      @srica7366 Рік тому +14

      I have a micro air on a 3.5t unit and an ICM on a 2.5t unit. 25a inrush on the 3.5t, with the micro air, 18a running. 27a inrush on the 2.5t with the icm, 12a running. The micro air draws 5a then slowly ramps up. It is better but more money. Editing this... I replaced my ICM with a Microair on the 2.5t. It pulls 29a. I'm 7 starts in. My 2.5t just pulls more than the 3.5t with bith slow starts. It was 67.5a. So, Save your money, Get the ICM.

    • @linvol20
      @linvol20 Рік тому

      @@srica7366my ac starts with a bang… do you think either one will help? Do you think the micro air will be quieter?

    • @radcrubmx583
      @radcrubmx583 Рік тому

      @@srica7366 Thank you!

    • @radcrubmx583
      @radcrubmx583 Рік тому +4

      ​@@linvol20 I'm not an expert, but yes, due to the controlled manner in which a soft start kit initiates the compressor, a side effect and benefit can be a quieter & smoother start-up. Please note that your mileage will vary. If there's something physically wrong with the compressor that's causing the bang, a soft start kit is unlikely to resolve it. Unfortunately, I don't know if the Micro-Air will be quieter. I have an ICM on my 2.5 ton and a Micro-Air on my 4 ton but haven't swapped them to see if one is better than the other at controlling the in-rush amps or the start-up noise. This is why I was / am hoping that The DIY HVAC Guy will connect his Micro-Air to the same unit in the video to see how it compares to the ICM. If the Micro-Air is able to be more effective at reducing the max in-rush amps, I feel it would be a safe assumption that it would also provide for a quieter start-up.

    • @JohnSmith-uy7sv
      @JohnSmith-uy7sv 11 місяців тому +1

      @@srica7366 I also have a 3.5 ton mobile home a/c unit with the compressor, cooling fan and air handler all in one. Which ICM do I get? the icm 870-16A or the icm 870- 32A

  • @mattb9421
    @mattb9421 11 місяців тому

    Thank you for posting this most helpful video and your other videos to help us DIY'ers make some sense of some of the HVAC issues that we encounter as homeowners.
    I have a Bryant "heat pump", Model # 213CNA036-B and was wondering how to determine the "tonnage" for a potential "soft start" that you recommended. I do have a 'back-up generator" that produces 8750 watts and wasn't aware that we could run our "heat-pump" off of this particular generator. I hope this is enough information to recommend the ICM870 for my particular setup.
    Thanks in advance!!

    • @mattb9421
      @mattb9421 11 місяців тому

      .....I forgot to mention that I already had a "hard-start kit" installed a few years ago. Will that make a difference for the installation of the 'soft-start' kit??? If so, any advise on this would be much appreciated!!

    • @mattb9421
      @mattb9421 11 місяців тому

      You answered my question in another video on 'if you can have both a hard-start & soft-start on the same unit? Thanks for that!!

    • @RadioReprised
      @RadioReprised 11 місяців тому +2

      3 tons....36 is the BTU in thousands. 12 thousand per ton.

  • @johnvbanta
    @johnvbanta 11 місяців тому +1

    Great video. Is there such a thing as resetting the ICM870 if you were to move it from one AC unit to another? It looks like it has a learning cycle so I am curious if it can be reinstalled on a new unit (assuming I might replace my current one in a couple years) and learn the new startup profile as needed.

    • @slackerdaughert7803
      @slackerdaughert7803 11 місяців тому +6

      I inquired with ICM earlier, Per ICM "Yes, you can use the same ICM870 but you have to start it up with the blue wire of the ICM870 disconnected ant first and wait for the start failure. Then shut Power off, reconnect the blue wire of the ICM870 to herm on the run capacitor and power back up. After several cycles, the ICM870 will relearn on the new AC."

  • @daviddion3731
    @daviddion3731 10 місяців тому

    Does this work in the same way as the RV soft start? Specifically can I install this on my 15k RV air conditioner and will that allow my AC to start and run on less than 30 amps such as 15-20 amp service? Thank you.

  • @joeslicklive
    @joeslicklive 8 місяців тому

    can i install this on a mini split? or should i? like a Mr cool 1200? i will have a gas generator back up added to my house, and I want to be prepared and will be adding the lightning surge protector one too

  • @ThermalDynamicSevices
    @ThermalDynamicSevices Місяць тому

    As long as your generator is large enough you can run your HVAC unit with out the need of one of these soft start devices, all these do is reduce the initial start up amps of the condensing unit so it’s not as great of a initial load on the generator.

  • @LAHarder7
    @LAHarder7 8 місяців тому

    Amazon seems to be out of these. Not surprising given how popular they have become. Fortunately, we've got all winter now to find and install. One thing I don't understand is that they are marketed all over the Internet as an RV accessory. I get that they work for RVs, but I wasted a lot of time searching online until I realized these "RV soft-starts" were the same units that can be installed on residential ACs.

  • @beginning-reloading
    @beginning-reloading 10 місяців тому

    Came across your video searching for alternate units to the Micro-air soft start. This appears to do the same thing and on ICM's main site, they do say it can be used for RV's. However I can't seem to find anyone installing it on an RV air conditioner. Will this work for RV style air conditioners? Thanks!

  • @davidd837
    @davidd837 11 місяців тому

    Hey coach I fried my control board on my mini split by hooking up my generator to the unit. Would this work with a 110V mini split?

  • @njneer7511
    @njneer7511 8 місяців тому

    Are those inrush amps being displayed on the meter counting the amps being used to start the air handler motor inside the garage as well? Both the motors start at the same time don't they? Thanks

  • @michine112
    @michine112 9 місяців тому

    i don't beleve the reading is the in rush amps your're seeing but the running amps. That said, it is a large decress in amps and i will soon place a order for this, thank you for the video.

  • @todd6323
    @todd6323 10 місяців тому +1

    Hi Dave, I installed the icm870 16A on a 28yr old ICP ACS036A2B1 3-ton. Works great actually. I methodically checked all connections 8-9 times before starting. It kicks on, the fan won't spin. What did I do? :-{ Todd Start amps went from 81 to 40.

  • @ramseytrain
    @ramseytrain Рік тому

    does this smooth out the sine wave and keep it at 60 hz, of clean up the trash in a generator voltage

  • @mycatmycat3786
    @mycatmycat3786 11 місяців тому

    Hi good info well done whisch one should I get for a 3.5 ton. Thanks take care.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  11 місяців тому

      The icm870-32 👍🏼
      amzn.to/45j8Bmv

  • @SteveM-426
    @SteveM-426 10 місяців тому

    It looks like AmRad added a CPT terminal to there Capacitors. Can or Should it be used for a Soft Start system? Thanks, Steve.

  • @billnipp2309
    @billnipp2309 29 днів тому

    I need help!! I decided to try to install one of these myself. I open up the condensing unit panel only to discover there’s no contactor for the compressor or condenser fan. Just a transformer, run capacitor and an electronic board. Does this mean I cant install a soft starter??? Ty.

  • @philgar7786
    @philgar7786 Рік тому

    @The DIY HVAC Guy ... What's the best way to keep a 6000 and an 8000 BTU window AC running?

  • @chrisreinhardt6266
    @chrisreinhardt6266 9 місяців тому

    Can I use 870--32 on a 2.5 ton unit? When I need to replace my 2.5 ton unit, I'm going to a 4 ton (house expansion), so can I just get the 870-32 now or is it too much for the 2.5 ton unit?