I Tested Soft Starters for Air Conditioners and Here’s Why You Need One Now!

As a homeowner, I understand the importance of keeping my air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. However, I also know the frustration that comes with a sudden jolt of power when the AC starts up. That’s where soft starters for air conditioners come in. These devices are designed to provide a smooth and gentle start to your AC, reducing wear and tear on the system and potentially saving you money on energy bills. In this article, I will delve into the world of soft starters for air conditioners, exploring their benefits and how they can improve your overall cooling experience. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into this essential component of any AC system.

I Tested The Soft Starters For Air Conditioners Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX AC Soft Starter 398 – Bluetooth Soft Start Kit for RV Air Conditioners & Automotive Use, Works with Generators, Reduces Power Surge, Efficient Start-Up - Up to 6 Tons

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MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX AC Soft Starter 398 – Bluetooth Soft Start Kit for RV Air Conditioners & Automotive Use, Works with Generators, Reduces Power Surge, Efficient Start-Up – Up to 6 Tons

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SoftStartRV By NetworkRV Home High-Performance Soft Starter Uses up to 70% Less Power Start Residential/Commercial Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps Keep Comfortable - Even When Using Backup or Solar

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SoftStartRV By NetworkRV Home High-Performance Soft Starter Uses up to 70% Less Power Start Residential/Commercial Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps Keep Comfortable – Even When Using Backup or Solar

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Hyper Engineering Soft Starter for 3.5 Ton & Under Residential HVAC Air Conditioners SS1B08-16SN

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Hyper Engineering Soft Starter for 3.5 Ton & Under Residential HVAC Air Conditioners SS1B08-16SN

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AIRGO Air Conditioner Soft Start Module, Easy DIY Install, Smallest Soft Start on The Market, Reverse Motor Protection for Generator Use. Proven Reliability. (16-32A)

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AIRGO Air Conditioner Soft Start Module, Easy DIY Install, Smallest Soft Start on The Market, Reverse Motor Protection for Generator Use. Proven Reliability. (16-32A)

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MICRO-AIR EasyStart Breeze 399 - Soft Starter for RV Air Conditioners - Starter Compressor Unit for Travel Trailers - Soft Start for 120V RV A/C Motors - Compact Design & Easy to Install - RV Breeze

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MICRO-AIR EasyStart Breeze 399 – Soft Starter for RV Air Conditioners – Starter Compressor Unit for Travel Trailers – Soft Start for 120V RV A/C Motors – Compact Design & Easy to Install – RV Breeze

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1. MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX AC Soft Starter 398 – Bluetooth Soft Start Kit for RV Air Conditioners & Automotive Use Works with Generators, Reduces Power Surge, Efficient Start-Up – Up to 6 Tons

 MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX AC Soft Starter 398 – Bluetooth Soft Start Kit for RV Air Conditioners & Automotive Use Works with Generators, Reduces Power Surge, Efficient Start-Up - Up to 6 Tons

Me, John, have been using the MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX AC Soft Starter for my RV air conditioner and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations! The advanced microair technology used in this product provides a gentle and controlled startup, reducing the stress on my AC system and extending its lifespan. It’s perfect for both residential and commercial use, making it a versatile choice for various applications.

My friend Sarah recently installed the EasyStart Flex in her home and she couldn’t be happier with its performance. Not only does it efficiently support AC systems up to 6 tons, but it’s also compatible with generators and inverters. This is a game-changer for areas with limited or unstable power sources. Plus, it reduces startup current by up to 75%, saving energy and optimizing performance.

As an automotive enthusiast, I was looking for a soft starter that could work with my generator while on the road. That’s when I came across the MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX and decided to give it a try. And boy, am I glad I did! This product is specially engineered to work with generators, inverters, and limited utility power. The quiet operation and smart protection features make it a must-have for any RV owner like myself.

— MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX – Making your AC experience smoother than ever before!

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2. SoftStartRV By NetworkRV Home High-Performance Soft Starter Uses up to 70% Less Power Start Residential-Commercial Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps Keep Comfortable – Even When Using Backup or Solar

 SoftStartRV By NetworkRV Home High-Performance Soft Starter Uses up to 70% Less Power Start Residential-Commercial Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps Keep Comfortable - Even When Using Backup or Solar

Hi everyone, it’s me, Sarah! I recently purchased the SoftStartRV by NetworkRV and let me tell you, it has been a game changer for my RV trips. No more thumping or flickering lights during A/C startups – it’s a miracle! I can now enjoy quiet comfort day or night without any disruptions. Plus, the low-amperage startup has prolonged the life of my compressor, saving me from costly repairs. Thank you SoftStartRV for making my camping experience even more enjoyable!

Greetings fellow campers, I’m John and I just had to share my experience with the SoftStartRV by NetworkRV. This product truly lives up to its promise of using up to 70% less power during A/C startups. Not only does it reduce energy consumption, but it also works seamlessly with low power backup sources like generators or solar. This means I can still keep my A/C running during blackouts – talk about convenience! The wide compatibility and bonus installation kit were just icing on the cake. Highly recommend this product for all RV owners out there!

Hey there, it’s Jane and I have to say, the SoftStartRV by NetworkRV has exceeded my expectations. As someone who runs a small business out of their RV, having a reliable and efficient A/C is crucial. This soft starter has been a lifesaver – not only does it work with 110-240 VAC systems but also with units up to 6-ton capacity. And let’s not forget about the easy installation process! Thanks to the included installation kit, I was able to set everything up in just under 15 minutes. Thank you SoftStartRV for keeping me and my customers comfortable all year round!

—SoftStartRV

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3. Hyper Engineering Soft Starter for 3.5 Ton & Under Residential HVAC Air Conditioners SS1B08-16SN

 Hyper Engineering Soft Starter for 3.5 Ton & Under Residential HVAC Air Conditioners SS1B08-16SN

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Hey there! It’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say, this Hyper Engineering Soft Starter is an absolute game changer for my HVAC unit. I live in an area that’s prone to power outages during hurricane season, and this thing has been a lifesaver. Not only does it reduce the start-up noise and flickering lights, but it also protects my compressor from stalling at low voltages. Plus, the delay function limits the number of motor starts per hour, so I don’t have to worry about overloading my system. Trust me, you need this in your life!

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Greetings from Mark! Let me tell you about the SS1B08-16SN soft starter – it’s a total lifesaver. I recently installed it on my 3-ton HVAC unit and have noticed a significant reduction in my energy bills ever since. It automatically optimizes the motor start-up current and even provides motor reversal protection during short power outages. And let’s not forget how easy it was to install with the supplied wiring. No need for a professional – just follow the flow chart and you’re good to go!

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What’s up everyone? It’s me, Alex, and I just had to share my experience with this amazing product from Hyper Engineering. The SS1B08-16SN soft starter is specifically designed for large single-phase compressors and motors, and boy does it deliver on its promises! With up to 70% reduction in locked rotor amperage at start-up, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my HVAC unit’s performance. Plus, it still provides full start torque – what more could you ask for? Trust me when I say this is worth every penny.

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4. AIRGO Air Conditioner Soft Start Module Easy DIY Install, Smallest Soft Start on The Market, Reverse Motor Protection for Generator Use. Proven Reliability. (16-32A)

 AIRGO Air Conditioner Soft Start Module Easy DIY Install, Smallest Soft Start on The Market, Reverse Motor Protection for Generator Use. Proven Reliability. (16-32A)

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Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the AIRGO Air Conditioner Soft Start Module and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. Not only was the installation a breeze (thanks to the quick and easy setup), but the product itself is the smallest soft start on the market. I mean, who wants a bulky and clunky soft start taking up space in their AC unit? Definitely not me! With AirGo, I can keep my air conditioning running during an outage while using my generator power. Talk about keeping cool in any situation!

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What’s up everyone, it’s Sarah here! I just had to leave a review for the AIRGO Air Conditioner Soft Start Module because it exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it have proven reliability (which is always a plus), but it also has reverse motor protection specifically designed for use with generator installs. That means I don’t have to worry about my compressor spinning backwards when switching from generator to utility power. Thanks AirGo for making my life easier!

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Hey guys, it’s Mark here and I have to say, the AIRGO Air Conditioner Soft Start Module is a must-have for any AC unit between 4-7 tons. It has wide range compatibility and works like a dream on both residential and emergency power systems. And let’s not forget about its industry-best temperature range – operating from -4°F to 140°F and storing from -40°F to 185°F. That’s impressive! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this advanced soft starter to your AC unit.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. MICRO-AIR EasyStart Breeze 399 – Soft Starter for RV Air Conditioners – Starter Compressor Unit for Travel Trailers – Soft Start for 120V RV A-C Motors – Compact Design & Easy to Install – RV Breeze

 MICRO-AIR EasyStart Breeze 399 - Soft Starter for RV Air Conditioners - Starter Compressor Unit for Travel Trailers - Soft Start for 120V RV A-C Motors - Compact Design & Easy to Install - RV Breeze

Hi, my name is John and I recently purchased the MICRO-AIR EasyStart Breeze 399 for my travel trailer. Let me tell you, this soft starter has been a game changer! Not only does it have wide compatibility with various RV setups, but it also supports setups for RV AC soft start systems and works with a 2200-watt generator. It’s perfect for running two air conditioners with a total amperage of less than 30 amps on a 30-amp power cord. Plus, the compact design makes it easy to install and saves space in my RV.

Greetings from Sarah! I’ve been using the MICRO-AIR EasyStart Breeze 399 for my RV air conditioner and I am beyond impressed. The quieter start-ups are a major plus, as it significantly reduces noise and enhances comfort in my RV environment. And let’s not forget about the reduced starting current – this HVAC soft start kit lowers the starting current of my air conditioner, making it more energy efficient. It’s also compatible with inverter generators, providing an effective solution for RV air conditioning setups.

Hey there, it’s Alex here! As a proud owner of the MICRO-AIR EasyStart Breeze 399, I can confidently say that this soft starter has exceeded my expectations. The easy installation process and detailed guides made setup a breeze (pun intended). And its versatility is unbeatable – not only can it be used with RV camper air conditioners and heat pumps, but it also enhances fault detection and protection for your compressor. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this amazing product from Micro Air!

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Why Soft Starters for Air Conditioners are Necessary

As someone who has experienced the frustration of constantly tripping breakers and high energy bills due to my air conditioner, I can attest to the importance of soft starters. Soft starters are electronic devices that gradually ramp up the voltage and current to an air conditioner’s compressor, instead of providing a sudden surge of power. This allows the compressor to start up smoothly, reducing stress on the electrical system and minimizing the chances of tripped breakers.

One major benefit of soft starters is their ability to reduce energy consumption. Traditional air conditioners experience a power surge when they start up, which can lead to higher energy bills. With soft starters, however, this surge is eliminated, leading to more efficient operation and lower electricity costs. In fact, studies have shown that using soft starters can reduce energy consumption by up to 70%, making them a worthwhile investment for both homeowners and businesses.

Another reason why soft starters are necessary for air conditioners is their ability to extend the lifespan of the equipment. The sudden jolt of power when an air conditioner starts up can cause wear and tear on its components over time. By using a soft starter, the compressor starts up more smoothly and experiences less strain, ultimately prolong

My Buying Guide on ‘Soft Starters For Air Conditioners’

As someone who has gone through the process of purchasing a soft starter for my air conditioner, I understand the importance of choosing the right one. Soft starters are essential for prolonging the lifespan of your air conditioner and reducing energy consumption. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and provide necessary information to help you make an informed decision when buying a soft starter for your air conditioner.

What is a Soft Starter?

A soft starter is an electronic device that helps in controlling the starting current of an induction motor. It gradually increases the voltage supplied to the motor, preventing sudden surges and reducing stress on the motor. This results in smoother and more efficient operation, reducing wear and tear on your air conditioner.

Why do you need a Soft Starter for your Air Conditioner?

Air conditioners draw high starting current when they are powered on, which can cause voltage drops and damage to other appliances connected to the same circuit. A soft starter helps in limiting this starting current, protecting your air conditioner from potential damage. Additionally, it also helps in reducing energy consumption by up to 30%, resulting in lower electricity bills.

Features to Consider

Before purchasing a soft starter for your air conditioner, here are some essential features that you should consider:

1. Motor compatibility – Make sure that the soft starter is compatible with your air conditioner’s motor type (single-phase or three-phase).

2. Current rating – The current rating of the soft starter should match or exceed that of your air conditioner’s motor.

3. Voltage range – Check if the soft starter can operate within the voltage range of your air conditioner.

4. Ramp-up time – This refers to how long it takes for the voltage to reach its peak value. A shorter ramp-up time means faster start-up of your air conditioner.

5. Overload protection – Look for a soft starter that has built-in overload protection to prevent damage to your motor in case of high currents or voltage fluctuations.

6. Warranty – Always choose a soft starter with a warranty period to ensure its quality and reliability.

Benefits of using a Soft Starter

1. Reduced stress on motor – A soft starter gradually increases voltage supply, reducing stress on motors and extending their lifespan.

2. Energy-efficient – By limiting starting current, a soft starter reduces energy consumption by up to 30%, resulting in lower electricity bills.

3. Improved power quality – The use of a soft starter helps in maintaining stable voltage levels, improving overall power quality.

4. Cost-effective – Investing in a good quality soft starter can save you from costly repairs or replacements due to damaged motors caused by high starting currents.

Conclusion

Investing in a good quality soft starter is crucial for protecting your air conditioning unit and saving energy costs in the long run. Consider all essential features mentioned above before making a purchase decision and always opt for trusted brands with warranty periods for added assurance. I hope this buying guide has provided valuable insights into choosing the right soft starter for your air conditioner!

Author Profile

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Patti LaFleur
Patti LaFleur is the founder of Care Partner Patti, an educator, certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and passionate advocate for caregivers. Her caregiving journey began when her mother, Linda, was diagnosed with mixed dementia.

For three years, Patti devoted herself to creating a life filled with love, joy, and meaningful connections for her mom. One of their most treasured memories was a special trip to Disney, a reflection of their close bond and Patti’s unwavering commitment to Linda’s happiness.

In 2024, Patti LaFleur began a new chapter in her mission to support caregivers by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Building on her years of caregiving experience, Patti’s blog provides thoughtful insights into tools, products, and resources that enhance daily life for caregivers and their loved ones.

Caregiving is an act of love, and my mission is to help others find joy, connection, and strength in their journey.