Soft start technology is increasingly being adopted in residential and recreational vehicle (RV) air conditioning systems to improve energy efficiency, reduce electrical strain, and extend equipment lifespan. Soft starters function by gradually ramping up the power supplied to the air conditioning unit rather than delivering it all at once, which is typical of traditional systems. This article provides a detailed, fact-based overview of soft start installation procedures, focusing on the SoftStart Home and SoftStart RV products. The guidance is drawn exclusively from the provided source material, including installation instructions, technical specifications, and manufacturer warnings.
Overview of Soft Start Technology and Installation Requirements
Soft starters are designed to reduce the inrush current when an air conditioning unit starts, which can otherwise cause voltage drops and strain on the electrical system. According to the source material, the installation of these devices requires careful attention to safety procedures and proper wiring. The SoftStart Home and SoftStart RV units are marketed as relatively easy to install, particularly for individuals with some experience in home maintenance or HVAC systems.
For residential applications, the SoftStart Home model is compatible with central air conditioners such as the Lennox brand, and the installation typically involves connecting the soft starter to the A/C unit’s control compartment. The SoftStart RV model, intended for recreational vehicles, requires similar steps but is tailored to the compact and variable configurations found in RV air conditioning systems.
All installations must be done by a certified HVAC technician or licensed electrician, as explicitly stated in the technical manual for the ICM870 soft starter. This requirement is not limited to the ICM870 but is a general safety precaution for all soft start units, as these devices operate under high voltage and require precise electrical connections.
SoftStart Home Installation for Residential Air Conditioners
Step-by-Step Installation Process
The installation process for the SoftStart Home involves several key steps, all of which are described in detail in the provided source material. Based on the experience of a user named Kent H., the installation process for a Lennox central air conditioner can be completed in approximately 15–20 minutes with the proper tools and preparation.
Power Off and Safety Precautions: Before beginning any installation, the power to the air conditioning unit must be turned off at the main service panel. This step is critical and is emphasized in all source materials due to the high voltage involved in these systems.
Accessing the Control Compartment: The user must remove the outer cover of the air conditioner to access the control compartment. This area is where the soft starter will be mounted and wired.
Mounting the SoftStart Unit: The SoftStart Home unit is placed on top of the A/C unit and secured using the supplied fasteners or an adhesive pad on the back of the soft starter. The unit’s dimensions are 7.60” x 3.20” x 2.10”, and it must be mounted in a dry, protected location to avoid water exposure.
Wiring Connections: The SoftStart Home Installation Kit includes all necessary connectors and wire ties. The user connects the soft starter to the A/C unit using standard wire crimpers, a screwdriver, and black electrical tape. The installation diagram is available on the SoftStartHome.com support pages and is designed to guide users through the process with clear visual instructions.
Testing the Installation: After the wiring is complete, the user restores power to the system. A green light on LED 1 indicates that the soft starter is functioning correctly. The unit should then be allowed to run for 30 minutes to ensure proper calibration. During this time, the thermostat should be set to a temperature close to the ambient outside temperature to optimize the calibration process.
Securing the Unit: Once the system is running, the soft starter is secured in the control area using the provided fasteners. The installation is complete when all connections are verified and the unit is operating as expected.
Tools and Materials Required
The SoftStart Home Installation Kit includes all necessary components for a secure and tidy installation. These include:
- Connectors for wire crimping
- Wire ties for securing cables
- Fasteners for mounting the unit
- Adhesive pad for alternative mounting
Users are advised to use standard tools such as wire crimpers, a screwdriver, and electrical tape to complete the installation.
SoftStart RV Installation for Recreational Vehicles
Installation Challenges and Visual Learning
The installation process for the SoftStart RV model is more complex due to the compact and variable configurations of RV air conditioning units. Unlike residential systems, which often follow a standardized layout, RV units can vary significantly in design and wiring. The source material highlights the importance of visual learning in this context, noting that a wiring diagram is essential for simplifying the process.
The SoftStartRV.com support page provides wiring diagrams for a wide range of RV air conditioning models, along with supplementary written instructions for those who prefer a textual approach. According to the source, some users may find written instructions sufficient, while others benefit from the visual clarity of a wiring diagram.
Step-by-Step Installation for SoftStart RV
The following steps are outlined in the source material for installing the SoftStart RV unit:
Power Off the System: As with the residential model, the first step is to turn off the power to the air conditioning unit.
Identify Wires and Terminals: The SoftStart RV installation requires connecting specific wires to designated terminals on the run capacitor and compressor. The source material provides an example of this process, including the following connections:
- Yellow wire to the HERM terminal on the run capacitor
- Black wire to the “C” terminal on the run capacitor
- Blue wire to be spliced with the white wire from the “R” terminal of the compressor
- Red wire to be spliced with the blue wire and attached to the L1 terminal
- Brown wire to the “OL” terminal of the compressor (OL stands for Overload)
Verify Connections: After making all connections, the user must double-check to ensure that all wires are correctly attached and secure.
Restore Power and Test: Power is turned back on, and the user lowers the thermostat to initiate the cooling cycle. The fan is turned on first, followed by the A/C, to ensure the system operates correctly.
Monitor Operation: The user is advised to observe the system for any signs of malfunction, such as unusual noises or failure to cool. If the system operates normally, the installation is complete.
Importance of Visual Aids
The source material emphasizes the value of visual aids in the SoftStart RV installation process. It references the phrase “A picture paints a thousand words,” highlighting how a wiring diagram can simplify complex electrical instructions. For non-specialists, a diagram allows them to visualize the connections and understand the spatial relationships between components.
SoftStartRV.com offers a dedicated support page where users can access wiring diagrams for their specific air conditioning model. This resource is particularly useful for users who may not be familiar with electrical terminology or wiring procedures.
Technical Specifications and Environmental Considerations
SoftStart Home and RV Unit Specifications
The technical specifications for the SoftStart Home and ICM870-9A/16A units (which are likely related to the SoftStart Home) are outlined in the provided source materials. These specifications include:
- Voltage and Current: The units are rated for 100–240 VAC at 50/60 Hz. The ICM870-9A model supports a maximum nominal current of 9 FLA (Full Load Amps), while the ICM870-16A supports up to 16 FLA.
- Over-Current Protection: The ICM870-9A has a 11.25A limit, and the ICM870-16A has a 20A limit.
- Environmental Requirements: The units operate in ambient temperatures up to 40°C for 8-hour duty cycles and can be used in environments with humidity levels up to 95% non-condensing. The enclosure is rated IP65, making it resistant to dust and water jets.
- Dimensions and Mounting: The units are compact, with dimensions of 7.60” x 3.20” x 2.10”. The screw hole center points are 7.00” x 1.97”, allowing for secure mounting in standard electrical enclosures.
Safety and Compliance
The source materials stress the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during installation. The following precautions are outlined:
- Power Disconnection: Before beginning any installation, power must be turned off at the main service panel to prevent electrical hazards.
- Professional Installation: All soft start installations must be performed by a certified HVAC technician or licensed electrician. This requirement is emphasized in the technical manual for the ICM870 and applies to all soft start units.
- Generator and Inverter Sizing: The use of an undersized generator or inverter with the soft start can lead to dangerous conditions. Users are advised to size their power source appropriately for their application.
- Mounting Location: The soft starter must be mounted in an area protected from water and the elements to prevent failure and reduce the risk of fire or electrical hazards.
Benefits of Soft Start Technology in Residential and RV Applications
Energy Efficiency and Equipment Longevity
Soft start technology offers several benefits over traditional air conditioning systems. By gradually increasing the power supplied to the compressor, soft starters reduce the initial inrush current, which can cause voltage drops and strain on the electrical system. This gradual startup reduces wear and tear on the compressor and other components, leading to longer equipment lifespan and fewer maintenance requirements.
The source material also highlights that soft starters can improve energy efficiency by reducing peak power consumption. This is particularly beneficial for homes with solar power systems or for RVs that rely on generators or inverters, where energy conservation is critical.
User-Friendly Installation and Support
One of the key advantages of SoftStart Home and SoftStart RV units is their ease of installation, particularly for users with some technical experience. The availability of detailed installation diagrams and step-by-step instructions makes it possible for many users to complete the process without extensive electrical training. Additionally, the support provided by SoftStartUSA, including 24/7 online support and live technician assistance, further enhances the user experience.
Customization and Compatibility
Both the SoftStart Home and SoftStart RV units are designed to be compatible with a wide range of air conditioning systems. The SoftStart Home is compatible with Lennox central air conditioners, while the SoftStart RV supports various RV models. The availability of wiring diagrams for different models ensures that users can find the correct instructions for their specific unit.
Conclusion
Soft start technology offers a practical solution for improving energy efficiency, reducing electrical strain, and extending the lifespan of air conditioning systems in both residential and recreational vehicle applications. The installation of SoftStart Home and SoftStart RV units requires careful adherence to safety protocols and proper wiring procedures. While the installation process is generally straightforward for those with some technical experience, it is recommended that all installations be performed by certified professionals to ensure compliance with electrical codes and safety standards.
The technical specifications and environmental requirements of these units highlight their robust design and suitability for a wide range of conditions. Additionally, the availability of detailed installation diagrams, step-by-step instructions, and manufacturer support makes the process accessible to a broader audience. As soft start technology continues to evolve, it is likely to become an increasingly common feature in modern air conditioning systems, offering users a reliable and efficient alternative to traditional startup methods.