If you’ve ever heard your air conditioner make a loud thud when it kicks on or seen your lights flicker when it starts, that’s the surge of electricity your AC needs to get going. It’s normal, but it puts stress on your power system and makes it harder to run multiple things at once, especially if you’re on limited power like solar or a generator.

That’s where a soft starter comes in.

A soft starter is a small device that helps your air conditioner start smoothly by controlling how much power it uses in the first few seconds. Instead of pulling a huge burst of electricity, it gradually builds up power to the compressor. This keeps your system stable, quieter, and more efficient.

Why Use a Soft Starter?

A soft starter helps your air conditioner run better, last longer, and use energy more effectively.
Here’s how:

• Reduces Power Demand: A soft starter can lower startup current by up to 70%. This makes it possible to run your AC on smaller generators, battery systems, or solar setups without overload.

• Protects Equipment: Less strain on your compressor and electrical parts means a longer lifespan and fewer repairs.

• Runs Quietly: Eliminates that loud startup sound for a smoother experience.

• Keeps Power Stable: Prevents lights from flickering and stops voltage dips when the AC turns on.

Why It’s a Smart Add-On for Solar Systems

If you power your RV or home with solar energy, a soft start can make a big difference in how efficiently your system runs. Solar setups are designed to make the most of stored power, and a sudden surge from your AC can pull more energy than your inverter or batteries are ready to deliver.

With a SoftStartRV or SoftStartHome installed, your AC starts gently and draws less power at once. That means:

• Smoother operation on battery power

• Fewer inverter overload warnings

• Longer runtime on solar storage

• Better overall system performance
  

In short, you’ll get more cooling time and less energy loss from your solar setup.

Soft Starter Options for Every Setup

For RVs: SoftStartRV

The SoftStartRV is built for travelers who want reliable, quiet cooling without needing a large generator. It’s compact, easy to install, and works perfectly with solar-equipped RVs or vans.

• Simple, no-cut installation

• Compact design for tight rooftop spaces

• Quieter startups with reduced vibration

• Works great on solar or small generators

For Homes: SoftStartHome

The SoftStartHome handles larger air conditioners, heat pumps, and pool heaters up to 6 tons. It helps protect your HVAC system and keeps your solar power system running more efficiently.

• Extends the life of motors and compressors

• Installs easily with basic tools

• Compatible with most major HVAC brands

• Smooth, quiet operation on grid or solar power

A Simple Upgrade That Makes a Big Difference

A soft starter is a small upgrade that brings big results. It protects your system, lowers startup power draw, and helps your solar setup work more efficiently.

From purchase to installation, our USA-based support team is here to help every step of the way. View our full line of USA-brand soft starters to find the right fit for your system.