For RV owners, running air conditioners smoothly on limited power sources like small generators or campsite hookups can be challenging. Soft start kits for RV air conditioners are designed to reduce the initial startup surge, lowering power demand and noise. This guide reviews the best soft start kits available on Amazon that enhance RV comfort by enabling easy AC startup, even with 15-30 amp power sources. The table below summarizes these top-rated products to help you choose the right fit for your RV cooling needs.
| Product | Capacity Support | Power Source Compatibility | Key Feature | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SoftStartRV Soft Start | Up to 36,000 BTU | Small generator, 15-30 Amp | 100% waterproof, noise & vibration reduction | SoftStartRV By NetworkRV |
| MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX 398 | Up to 6 Tons (72,000 BTU) | Generators, inverters, home power | Bluetooth control, broad AC compatibility | MICRO-AIR |
| Spartan Power SpartanStart | Up to 20,000 BTU | Generator, inverter, campsite power | Generator anti-stall & motor protection | Spartan Power |
| CARROPECAS Soft Starter | Up to 15,000 BTU | 2200W generator, 20-30 Amp RV hookups | Reduced startup current by 65%-70% | Carropecas |
| Briidea Soft Starter | Up to 15,000 BTU | 2200W generator, 20-30 Amp outlets | Noise reduction and generator overload prevention | briidea |
SoftStartRV Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner
The SoftStartRV Soft Start Kit is engineered for low-profile RV air conditioners and offers a significant improvement in startup performance. Its reduced size allows compatibility with all low-profile AC units, supporting two air conditioners on a 30-amp circuit or one AC on a small generator. The kit is fully waterproof, adding durability in a mobile environment.
This product stands out by enabling multiple RV appliances, including fridge, heater, microwave, fan, and TV, to start with lower power draws. It supports rooftop AC units up to 15,000 BTU and larger compressors up to 36,000 BTUs. The device also minimizes loud compressor noises and vibrations, making your RV environment quieter and more comfortable during startup.
MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX 398 Bluetooth Soft Start Kit
The MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX 398 is one of the most advanced soft start kits with Bluetooth connectivity for home, RV, and commercial AC units. It supports air conditioners up to 6 tons (72,000 BTU), making it versatile for larger systems beyond typical RV applications.
This kit reduces startup current by up to 75%, easing mechanical stress on air conditioning units and extending their lifespan. It is compatible with two-stage compressors and heat pumps. The included installation kit makes setup straightforward, while built-in compatibility with generators and inverters ensures reliable operation even with limited power sources.
Spartan Power SpartanStart Soft Start Kit for RV AC
Spartan Power’s SpartanStart is designed specifically for RV air conditioners up to 20,000 BTU, allowing startup with a 2200 watt inverter or generator without draining batteries. Originating from Australia and supported in the U.S., it offers advanced features like generator anti-stall and motor preload protection to maintain smooth startup and prevent equipment damage.
The product facilitates seamless power source switching between generators, inverters, or camp power without requiring learning cycles, supporting a hassle-free user experience. The box includes splice connectors and mounting tape for quick installation, improving convenience for RV owners.
CARROPECAS Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner
The CARROPECAS Soft Start Kit helps start 15,000 BTU RV air conditioners using modest 2200 watt generators and allows multiple appliance operation on limited power sources. It supports operation with 20 amp household connectors or two AC units on a 30 amp connection (requires two kits).
This kit reduces startup current by 65%-70%, stabilizing electrical demand to avoid generator overloads or tripped circuit breakers. Its noise reduction technology decreases startup vibrations and sounds, significantly improving comfort during RV travel and rest.
Briidea Soft Starter for RV Air Conditioner and Appliances
The Briidea Soft Starter enables easy start of a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner with a small 2200 watt generator while simultaneously powering essential appliances like a refrigerator, microwave, and TV. It is designed to work with standard 20A household hookups or two ACs on 30A service with two units.
This soft start kit reduces the starting current by 65%-70%, offering smoother startups, avoiding generator overload, and preventing frequent circuit breaker trips. Its noise dampening effect contributes to quieter RV travels and protects the air conditioning system’s longevity.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Soft Start Kit for Your RV Air Conditioner
1. Compatibility With Your AC Unit Size
Select a soft start kit that supports the cooling capacity of your RV air conditioner. Most RV AC units range between 13,500 and 15,000 BTU, but some models can go up to 20,000 or even 36,000 BTU. Kits like SoftStartRV and SpartanStart are optimized for typical RV sizes, while MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX models handle residential and commercial units up to 6 tons (72,000 BTU).
2. Power Source and Electrical Requirements
Consider the power limitations of your generator or campsite service. Many kits are designed for use on 15-30 amp power supplies or small 2200 watt generators. If you plan to operate multiple appliances simultaneously, check the soft start’s ability to reduce startup surge to prevent overload and circuit breaker trips.
3. Installation Convenience
Look for kits that provide comprehensive installation kits, including connectors, mounting tape, and clear instructions. Plug-and-play designs simplify setup and reduce the need for professional wiring. If Bluetooth or advanced control features are desired, such as with MICRO-AIR EasyStart FLEX, ensure you’re comfortable with the setup process.
4. Noise and Vibration Reduction
Soft start kits can significantly reduce the loud thump and vibration typical of AC compressor startups. This can improve comfort on the road and help extend equipment life by minimizing mechanical stress. Brands like SoftStartRV, CARROPECAS, and Briidea emphasize this feature.
5. Durability and Environmental Resistance
RV conditions demand robust products. Waterproof or weather-resistant designs, like SoftStartRV’s 100% waterproof unit, will endure harsher outdoor environments and provide reliable performance over time.
6. Additional Features
Some kits include protective features like generator anti-stall, motor reversal protection, and compatibility with two-stage compressors or heat pumps. Consider your specific RV power setup and air conditioning needs to determine which advanced features are valuable.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select the best soft start kit to enhance your RV’s air conditioning efficiency and comfort, especially when operating with limited or unstable power sources.