Air Conditioner Soft Start Device

[Boffin]

Worthwhile?

If you have one, advantages/disadvantages?

Any noticeable a/c performance loss?

Related costs?

[retiredguy123]

The one I saw was mounted inside the AC unit and would most likely void your warranty.

[village dreamer]

i belive its called a hard start capacitor for a problem motor.

[jrref]

A soft start device is mainly used to limit the compressors starting current surge when you have a generator or other backup power device. Other than that, there is no "real" benefit except to lighten the load when your compressor starts up which may extend it's life. I've also seen these soft start devices go bad causing the compressor to not start.

A hard start device is usually used when your compressor is on "its way out" to give it a little more life.

[Bassdeer]

A soft start device is mainly used to limit the compressors starting current surge when you have a generator or other backup power device. Other than that, there is no "real" benefit except to lighten the load when your compressor starts up which may extend it's life. I've also seen these soft start devices go bad causing the compressor to not start.

A hard start device is usually used when your compressor is on "its way out" to give it a little more life.

jrref is spot on.

[metoo21]

I have the Micro-Aire Easy Start. Jrref is correct. A hard start pushes more current to help an aging motor/compressor start which isn't good on the motor/compressor but if it will allow you to get by another few months or a year then it puts off the ultimate replacement cost of a new AC. It isn't good for a relatively new unit as high current can/will damage a motor/compressor. Will either save you money on electric costs - No. It will reduce the current to start the AC and will reduce the startup clunk noise. It may save money on helping your unit last longer and not have to be replaced sooner. My AC went from a startup current of 79 amps to 26 amps.

Check out the info on the easy start page.
Easy Start Soft Starter (https://www.microair.net/collections/easystart-soft-starters/products/easystart-flex-home-ac-soft-starter)

[airstreamingypsy]

I thought they were just for RV a/cs..... interesting that they go on home units too.

[metoo21]

I think they’ve always done both. Better known probably for RV. That’s where I heard about them but never needed one in our rv.

[mtdjed]

Worthwhile?

If you have one, advantages/disadvantages?

Any noticeable a/c performance loss?

Related costs?

Don't all Home ACs have a Start Capacitor which is by design to provide that extra fan, compressor startup power requirement. The equipment by design has capability and need for that extra startup surge. That start capacitor costs $15 to replace if it fails. And it will likely fail at some time. It could be replaced like a lightbulb during your annual AC checkup. But your service supplier chooses to prefer waiting for failure and charging $300 to replace after failure or charge an unreasonable price during scheduled checkup. One screw to loosen, 3 pull off wires to remove and replace. A couple of minutes at most.

Ask your service supplier to replace next service call and see what they want for $15 part.
(probably less for them).

[metoo21]

Don't all Home ACs have a Start Capacitor which is by design to provide that extra fan, compressor startup power requirement. The equipment by design has capability and need for that extra startup surge.

Yes and most motors utilize capacitors even ceiling fans. But a soft start ramps up the power and thus allows for a lower amp startup causing less stress on the compressor. A soft start is somewhat pricey and manufacturers are all about lowering costs. Even if you have to soon buy new equipment because their design puts unneeded stress on the components.

Hard starts are about $15 it you want to further stress you unit. Again hard starts do have their place to hopefully give a little more life to an aging unit.

[retiredguy123]

If a soft start device will increase the life of the compressor, why does the manufacturer warrant the compressor for 10 years and not install a soft start device in their condenser unit?

[ithos]

If a soft start device will increase the life of the compressor, why does the manufacturer warrant the compressor for 10 years and not install a soft start device in their condenser unit?

Very few compressors will fail from normal use within the warranty period. But the EasyStart will probably add another 5 to 10 years to the life of the compressor. Since most home owners have been told that compressor only last 10-15 years, they just expect it is a normal expense that they will have to incur. So why would the manufacturer or the dealer promote a device that will reduce their profits?

[ithos]

I have installed one and am thrilled by it. Not only will your compressor last much longer it will also significantly reduce the startup noise(which means less wear on the motor).
You will always have naysayers on TOV, so I recommend watching this video for the best description on the benefits and how to install.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDp1g8r8IVs

Most RVs need it for camping grounds due to the max current limitations. It also has excellent solid state protection against electrical faults like single phasing.

[retiredguy123]

I have installed one and am thrilled by it. Not only will your compressor last much longer it will also significantly reduce the startup noise(which means less wear on the motor).
You will always have naysayers on TOV, so I recommend watching this video for the best description on the benefits and how to install.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDp1g8r8IVs

Most RVs need it for camping grounds due to the max current limitations. It also has excellent solid state protection against electrical faults like single phasing.
Question: It looks like you are changing the wiring inside the condenser unit. How does this affect the manufacturer's 10-year compressor warranty?

[ithos]

Question: It looks like you are changing the wiring inside the condenser unit. How does this affect the manufacturer's 10-year compressor warranty?

It is simple.
Contact the manufacturer or dealer and ask if they can get approval or provide written confirmation that the soft start will not void the warranty. They will most likely have to install it to protect the warranty. But once outside the warranty it is a no brainer.

Soft starts or VSDs are usually an option on new compressors these days.

[jrref]

I'm pretty sure if you DIY and add one of these you void the warranty but then again I've seen some electrical contractors who install generators and add the soft start because it's necessary, so maybe there is a way around it.

When your single stage system eventually fails and needs replacement get one of the inverter variable speed systems which is the same technology as the mini splits everyone is installing then you don't need to worry about this problem.

[RoboVil]

I looked at getting one for my non-Villages house when I was considering a whole-house generator. The HVAC guy recommended strongly adding one. Said they malfunction often. So, I didn't.

[JRcorvette]

The one I saw was mounted inside the AC unit and would most likely void your warranty.

You are totally wrong! Why make comments when you do not know what you are talking about?

[ithos]

A note of caution. I purchased mine before they designed a newer one that was "one size fits all." There are some threads on Reddit that talk about it. Or try this google search micro air easy start "hvac-talk.com".

The newer design had issues according to Reddit threads(B34). They apparently fixed it in the B36 version. If concerned I would check different sites for feedback or purchase one from the manufacturer.

[JRcorvette]

A soft start system ramps up your AC unit slowly in stages so that there is no voltage spike at start up. This will make it possible for you to run your AC unit on a relatively small generator which could come in very useful should a storm cause an extended power outage. The unit cost a few hundred dollars and is relatively easy to install. There are may YouTube videos on it. Or you can have your AC service company do it. Make sure you buy one that is rated for the size of your AC.

[jrref]

I looked at getting one for my non-Villages house when I was considering a whole-house generator. The HVAC guy recommended strongly adding one. Said they malfunction often. So, I didn't.

That's the problem, they do malfunction more than you would think. But maybe some of the newer ones are more reliable.

[Topspinmo]

IMO the fan bearings going fail long before winding? Wouldn’t that be similar capacitor than in squirrel cage? It seems to wind up slower than fan on outside unit? Or is it the amount of air the squirrel cage pushes? When storm comes and power outage I’m more concerned with refrigeration units, but guess it you have generator big enough to run why not?

[ithos]

I believe that far more MicroAir easy starts are purchased by RV owners than home owners. I recommend checking RV sites for more information.

[metoo21]

......so I recommend watching this video for the best description on the benefits and how to install.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDp1g8r8IVs


That is a great video. I've watched it several times the past before I bought the easy start.

[metoo21]

Question: It looks like you are changing the wiring inside the condenser unit. How does this affect the manufacturer's 10-year compressor warranty?

You really only "move" 1 wire to connect it to the easy start. No effect on warranty on my carrier unit anyway. I've had the annual service from Sunshine the last 3 years and they have all said the easy starts are great units.

I DIY'd mine. Very easy to install.

[metoo21]

IMO the fan bearings going fail long before winding? Wouldn’t that be similar capacitor than in squirrel cage? It seems to wind up slower than fan on outside unit? Or is it the amount of air the squirrel cage pushes? When storm comes and power outage I’m more concerned with refrigeration units, but guess it you have generator big enough to run why not?

It's not really there to protect the fan motor. It is there to protect the compressor motor. That is what draws all of the amps.

[metoo21]

That's the problem, they do malfunction more than you would think. But maybe some of the newer ones are more reliable.

Easy to tell if it malfunctions. It is connected to an app by bluetooth with diagnostics. And should you need to, you can disconnect it from the AC unit and put that 1 "moved" wire back until you get the easy start replaced.

[drducat]

Yes will double the life of your unit. With the cost of heat pump air units being so high the $350 for the easy start is cheap ...will save you thousands of $

[jrref]

Yes will double the life of your unit. With the cost of heat pump air units being so high the $350 for the easy start is cheap ...will save you thousands of $

Doubling the life would be true if you installed the device when your unit was new and all you had to worry about was the compressor. There are lot's of other stuff that will go bad to end the units life normally. So, will this device extend the life of your condensor, probably yes but there is no way to know for how long since the compressor can fail for many reasons other than start-up wear and tear.

[ithos]

Doubling the life would be true if you installed the device when your unit was new and all you had to worry about was the compressor. There are lot's of other stuff that will go bad to end the units life normally.

Everything on the condenser can be repaired for relatively little money with the exception of the compressor.

Fans are cheap and is a DIY. Repairing freon leaks may be an exception but that is half day charge.

[CosmicTrucker]

Yes, I installed one on my Carrier 2.5-ton unit for two reasons.
1: So I could easily power the A/C with a portable generator.

2: To reduce the startup noise of the unit.

My unit was very loud at startup and it made sense to me if it could be started with a lower current then hopefully this would extend the life of the compressor.
I've been running it for about a year and see no negative impact.

EasyStart™ Flex: Soft Start AC Home Starter

– Micro-Air, LLC (https://www.microair.net/products/easystart-flex-home-ac-soft-starter)

[SpartanMark]

Don't all Home ACs have a Start Capacitor which is by design to provide that extra fan, compressor startup power requirement. The equipment by design has capability and need for that extra startup surge. That start capacitor costs $15 to replace if it fails. And it will likely fail at some time. It could be replaced like a lightbulb during your annual AC checkup. But your service supplier chooses to prefer waiting for failure and charging $300 to replace after failure or charge an unreasonable price during scheduled checkup. One screw to loosen, 3 pull off wires to remove and replace. A couple of minutes at most.

Ask your service supplier to replace next service call and see what they want for $15 part.
(probably less for them).

You forgot to mention to disconnect power to the unit.

[jrref]

Everything on the condenser can be repaired for relatively little money with the exception of the compressor.

Fans are cheap and is a DIY. Repairing freon leaks may be an exception but that is half day charge.

Generally I would agree with you but there is so much on an old unit that can cause the compressor to fail which is why I was commenting on this device "doubling the life of the compressor". Generally these soft start devices are installed to lower the start-up current if you have installed a generator or some other alternate power source. I know they may extend the life of the compressor but doubling it or any fixed extension, there is really no way to tell. They are also good to quiet down the condensor giving your neighbor some relief if their bedroom window is near your unit. If you really want to extend the life of your condensor besides the soft start you also might want to install the Rectorseal 96424 Surge Protector RSH-50 VRMDC with Breaker Model: RSH50VRMDC. The RSH-50 VRMDC KIT combines the VRM60A, RSH-50, & 60A disconnect breaker in a NEMA 3R enclosure, for an all-in-one equipment solution. The RSH-50 uses Gas Discharge Tube (GDT) Technology along with Thermally Fused Metal Oxide Varistors (TMOV) for ultimate protection. It also disconnects the power on a brown-out or high voltage event protecting the condensor.
RectorSeal RSH-50 VRMDC KIT - AC Unit Surge Protector (https://rectorseal.com/rsh-50-vrmdc-kit/)

Also, last I looked, If you are an original owner then you get the 10 year warranty on the compressor and related parts. For subsequent homowners, its 5 years.

On my new Carrier Infinity Greenspeed, the warrenty is now fully transferrable.

[ithos]

Generally I would agree with you but there is so much on an old unit that can cause the compressor to fail which is why I was commenting on this device "doubling the life of the compressor". Generally these soft start devices are installed to lower the start-up current if you have installed a generator or some other alternate power source. I know they may extend the life of the compressor but doubling it or any fixed extension, there is really no way to tell. They are also good to quiet down the condensor giving your neighbor some relief if their bedroom window is near your unit. If you really want to extend the life of your condensor besides the soft start you also might want to install the Rectorseal 96424 Surge Protector RSH-50 VRMDC with Breaker Model: RSH50VRMDC. The RSH-50 VRMDC KIT combines the VRM60A, RSH-50, & 60A disconnect breaker in a NEMA 3R enclosure, for an all-in-one equipment solution. The RSH-50 uses Gas Discharge Tube (GDT) Technology along with Thermally Fused Metal Oxide Varistors (TMOV) for ultimate protection. It also disconnects the power on a brown-out or high voltage event protecting the condensor.
RectorSeal RSH-50 VRMDC KIT - AC Unit Surge Protector (https://rectorseal.com/rsh-50-vrmdc-kit/)

Also, last I looked, If you are an original owner then you get the 10 year warranty on the compressor and related parts. For subsequent homowners, its 5 years.

On my new Carrier Infinity Greenspeed, the warrenty is now fully transferrable.

I have replaced the contactor and capacitor(made in USA). Now if the fan fails the HPCO should take it out. If the sensor is bad then it may kill compressor unless the MicroAir senses abnormal current which I believe it does.
Reducing the peak inrush current by 50% or more will significantly extend the life of the compressor. Lower current will reduce insulation breakdown and stress on bearings and other components. The surge protector is a good idea.
Now if the evaporator has a leak that can't be repaired then you are screwed unless you can find a replacement. That will be unlikely since 410A equipment is no longer in production. You will have to replace the whole system.

[Graspher]

I installed a micro air easy start flex unit on a 5 ton carrier system a couple of months ago. The “bang” has disappeared.

My main reason for installing is so I can use AC when on a portable backup generator.

I’m in the process of connecting a Westinghouse 18,000 watt tri-fuel gen to my panel fueled by NG.

The micro air will allow me to power everything in my home except for washer/dryer.

[retiredguy123]

You are totally wrong! Why make comments when you do not know what you are talking about?
Apparently, you know more about HVAC warranties than Carrier does. I asked them the question, and here was their reply:

"That’s a great question—whether or not adding a soft start device affects the warranty can depend on a few installation-specific factors. Because of this, we recommend discussing it directly with a licensed dealer or installer. They’ll be able to evaluate your system setup and confirm what’s permitted under warranty guidelines."

Nathaniel
Product Registration Team
Customer Care Center

[ithos]

Apparently, you know more about HVAC warranties than Carrier does. I asked them the question, and here was their reply:

"That’s a great question—whether or not adding a soft start device affects the warranty can depend on a few installation-specific factors. Because of this, we recommend discussing it directly with a licensed dealer or installer. They’ll be able to evaluate your system setup and confirm what’s permitted under warranty guidelines."

Nathaniel
Product Registration Team
Customer Care Center

This is a grey area so better safe than sorry. If under warranty I would get a pre approval and then schedule a routine inspection by a tech so that proper operation could be documented.

[retiredguy123]

This is a grey area so better safe than sorry. If under warranty I would get a pre approval and then schedule a routine inspection by a tech so that proper operation could be documented.
I agree, but that seems to preclude a DIY installation.

[jrref]

I think what most are missing is working on your HVAC system as a DIY project will void the warranty. But do DIY folks change capacitors and contactors? Sure and most of the time there is no problem making a warranty claim. But installing a soft or hard start device yourself for example, and then trying to make a warranty claim on the compressor will probably be a no-go because they will say "how do we know the device you installed didn't ruin the compressor". On the other hand, If you had a soft start device installed by a "Authorized" Technician, whatever that means, then you will probably be OK. At the last hurricane expo here in the Villages I saw many companies saying they needed to install the soft start device if you purchased their generator and wanted to put the A/C on the generator so there has to be a work around when installing this device and maintaining your warranty.

In addition to this question another one comes to mind. If you don't maintain you HVAC system by a "Qualified" HVAC company do you void the warranty? You can 100% clean your inside and outside coils, measure and replace the capacitors, contactor, maybe even chang a fan motor for example but how is a DIYer going to put gages on the condensor and then take it a step further if it needs refrigerant, how can you buy it without a license? I don't think you can.

So, here is an example, DIYer goes and somehow gets the refrigerent and trys to fix his or her system that's not cooling enough.They feel it just needs more freon so they add it. Now the system is overcharged and the compressor is working harder or liquid is getting into the compressor and "flooding" it. The compressor then prematurely fails. Is Carrier going to give you a warranty compressor after you caused it to fail? I can go on and on but I think everyone gets the point. I think when you buy a new system, part of the cost of owning the system is having a HVAC company come once a year and maintain it. You can probably lessen the cost by checking the capacitor before they come and change it out yourself and the same if the contactor went bad but other than a few DIYer maintenance items you have to rely on the HVAC company. Once your warranty is up then "go at it", do whatever you want and let us know how it turns out.

[ithos]

I agree, but that seems to preclude a DIY installation.
Definitely would get approval in writing. But since it extends the life of the compressor, then they shouldn't have a problem with it. Easy Start has solid state controls that will trip the unit if there are any abnormalities. Can't find any reports of where the compressor was damaged by its malfunction.

Typical warranty:
Failure, damage or repairs due to faulty installation, misapplication, abuse, improper servicing, unauthorized alteration or improper operation.
Parts or equipment not supplied or designated by Company, or damages resulting from their use.

https://www.shareddocs.com/hvac/docs/1009/Public/0B/ACHP-C454-01WAR.pdf

[jrref]

Definitely would get approval in writing. But since it extends the life of the compressor, then they shouldn't have a problem with it. Easy Start has solid state controls that will trip the unit if there are any abnormalities. Can't find any reports of where the compressor was damaged by its malfunction.

Typical warranty:
Failure, damage or repairs due to faulty installation, misapplication, abuse, improper servicing, unauthorized alteration or improper operation.
Parts or equipment not supplied or designated by Company, or damages resulting from their use.

https://www.shareddocs.com/hvac/docs/1009/Public/0B/ACHP-C454-01WAR.pdf

I think the Unathorized Alteration is the catch-all for what we are talking about.

[retiredguy123]

Definitely would get approval in writing. But since it extends the life of the compressor, then they shouldn't have a problem with it. Easy Start has solid state controls that will trip the unit if there are any abnormalities. Can't find any reports of where the compressor was damaged by its malfunction.

Typical warranty:
Failure, damage or repairs due to faulty installation, misapplication, abuse, improper servicing, unauthorized alteration or improper operation.
Parts or equipment not supplied or designated by Company, or damages resulting from their use.

https://www.shareddocs.com/hvac/docs/1009/Public/0B/ACHP-C454-01WAR.pdf
Who would give you this approval in writing? If I were just a dealer or installer, I wouldn't.

[ithos]

Who would give you this approval in writing? If I were just a dealer or installer, I wouldn't.

They may not so you won't be able to install one until the warranty is over. No harm in seeking authorization is there?