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Reading Time: 9 minutesLast Updated on April 22, 2026 by Paul Clayton
Table of Contents
How to get your Cool Back with a Soft Start
Key Takeaways
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- Functionality: A soft start reduces the massive initial power surge (inrush current) required to kick-start an RV air conditioner’s compressor. It gradually ramps up voltage and current over a few seconds, preventing tripped breakers and voltage drops.
- Independent Units: You must install one soft-start device for each air conditioner unit on your RV to ensure every compressor has a controlled startup.
- Boondocking Benefits: These devices are essential for running A/C units on smaller generators or portable power stations that otherwise couldn’t handle the “startup spike” of a standard compressor.
- Installation Requirements: While some experienced DIYers can handle the installation, it involves working with the A/C control board on the RV roof. Professional installation is recommended to ensure electrical safety and proper wiring.
- Warranty & Compliance: Installation may void an A/C manufacturer’s warranty unless performed by a qualified professional in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Always verify the manufacturer’s policy before modifying the unit.
- Cost & Value: Soft start devices typically cost between $200 and $500. While they are rarely included as standard equipment on new RVs, they are a common and highly recommended aftermarket upgrade.
- Startup Sequence: The device follows a four-step process: an initial stability delay, a reduced-voltage start, a controlled ramp-up period, and finally, the delivery of full power for normal operation.
You are in the middle of nowhere, boondocking, it’s a beautiful night, one of the best you have witnessed in your lifetime. It’s mid-July and hotter than asphalt in southern Texas. It’s time, as all things come to an end, time to go to bed.
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As you are lying in bed, your air conditioner just won’t start. It tries, but nothing! Nothing is worse than sweating under the sheets, so you kick them off, and the ceiling fan just won’t cut it. Your partner is complaining blah blah blah.
HELLO, IT’S TIME TO GET ONE OF THOSE THINGYS YOU WERE TOLD ABOUT BUT KEPT PUTTING OFF.
A soft start for an RV air conditioner is a device or system that helps reduce the initial power surge when the air conditioner starts. When an air conditioner starts, it requires a high amount of power to kick-start the compressor and get the unit running. This sudden surge in power demand can sometimes overload the RV’s electrical system, leading to tripped breakers or voltage drops.
A soft-start device or system helps mitigate power surges by gradually ramping up the compressor’s speed and reducing the initial power demand. This smoother startup reduces strain on the RV’s electrical system, making it more efficient and helping prevent potential problems.
Soft-start devices are available on the market and can be installed in RV air conditioning systems to provide this functionality. They are designed to be compatible with various air conditioner models and can improve overall performance and reliability.
How do soft start devices work?
Soft-start devices gradually ramp up the power supplied to a compressor during an air conditioner’s startup. 
Instead of providing a sudden surge of power, the soft-start device gradually increases voltage and current, allowing the compressor to start more smoothly.
The specific operation of a soft start device may vary depending on the manufacturer and model, but here is a general overview of how they typically work:
- Initial Delay: When the air conditioner is turned on, the soft start device introduces a short delay before supplying power to the compressor. This delay allows the device to monitor the electrical conditions and ensure they are stable before proceeding.
- Reduced Voltage: After the initial delay, the soft start device gradually increases the voltage supplied to the compressor. It starts at a lower voltage than the full-power supply to avoid a sudden power surge.
- Controlled Ramp-up: The soft-start device gradually increases the voltage over a predefined period, typically a few seconds. This controlled ramp-up allows the compressor to start more smoothly, reducing the strain on the electrical system and minimizing the risk of tripped breakers or voltage drops.
- Full Power Delivery: Once the ramp-up period is complete, the soft-start device delivers full power to the compressor, allowing it to operate at normal capacity.
By controlling power delivery during startup, soft-start devices help reduce the initial inrush current and provide a smoother, more gradual startup for the air conditioner. This can help prevent electrical issues, extend the compressor’s lifespan, and improve the overall efficiency of the air conditioning system.
It’s important to note that the specific operation and features of soft-start devices may vary across manufacturers and models. The manufacturer’s documentation and guidelines should be consulted for detailed information on the specific operation of a particular soft start device.
Do I need one for each A/C Unit?
Yes, typically you would need one soft-start device for each air conditioner unit. 
Each air conditioner unit has its own compressor that requires a controlled startup to reduce the initial power surge.
Installing a soft-start device on each air conditioner unit allows for independent control and a gradual ramp-up of power for each unit. This ensures that each compressor receives the appropriate startup sequence and reduces strain on the electrical system.
It’s important to choose soft-start devices compatible with the specific air conditioner models you have. The manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions will provide information on the number of soft-start devices required and any specific considerations for multi-unit installations.
Do these devices come with a new RV purchase?
Great question for the RV dealer during negotiations.
Soft start devices for air conditioners are typically not included as standard equipment with a new RV purchase. RV manufacturers generally install standard air conditioning units without soft start functionality to keep costs down.
If you are interested in a soft-start device for your RV air conditioner, you will need to purchase it separately and have it installed by the RV dealer or a qualified professional.
It’s worth noting that some RV manufacturers or dealerships may offer soft start devices as optional upgrades or accessories that can be purchased alongside the RV. However, this can vary, and it’s recommended to inquire with the RV manufacturer or dealership about the availability and options for soft start devices at the time of purchase.
If a soft start device is not included with your RV purchase or offered as an option, you can still purchase a compatible soft start device from various manufacturers or authorized dealers and have it installed separately. It’s important to ensure the device is compatible with your specific RV air conditioner model and to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.
Will installing a Soft Start device void my A/C warranty?
Installing a soft-start device on an air conditioner may or may not void the warranty, depending on the manufacturer’s terms and conditions. It is important to review the manufacturer’s warranty documentation or consult with them directly to understand their policy on modifications or aftermarket additions to the unit.
Some manufacturers may explicitly state that any modifications or additions to the air conditioner, including the installation of aftermarket devices, can void the warranty. In such cases, installing a soft-start device may void the air conditioner’s warranty.
However, some manufacturers may allow the installation of soft-start devices without voiding the warranty, provided the installation is performed by a qualified professional in accordance with their guidelines. It is essential to consult with the manufacturer or review the warranty documentation to determine their specific stance on aftermarket modifications.
To ensure warranty compliance and avoid potential issues, it is recommended to contact the air conditioner manufacturer directly to inquire about its policy on installing soft-start devices. They will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information on their warranty coverage and any potential impacts of installing a soft-start device on your specific air conditioner model.
Can anyone install one of these Thingys?
If you are considering installing a soft-start device for your RV air conditioner, it is recommended that you consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional advice to ensure compatibility and proper installation.
Installing a soft-start device for an air conditioner typically requires electrical work and knowledge of your RV or home’s electrical system. While some individuals with experience in electrical systems may feel confident installing a soft-start device themselves, it is generally recommended to have a professional electrician perform the installation.
Here are a few reasons why professional installation is recommended:
- Electrical Safety: Working with electrical systems carries inherent risks. A professional electrician has the knowledge and expertise to ensure safe installation, proper grounding, and compliance with electrical codes and regulations.
- Compatibility and Wiring: Soft start devices may vary in their installation requirements and compatibility with different air conditioner models. A professional electrician can assess your specific system and ensure the soft start device is compatible and wired correctly.
- Warranty Considerations: Improper installation of a soft-start device can void the manufacturer’s warranty. Professional installation can help ensure that the device is installed correctly, preserving any warranty coverage.
- System Optimization: An electrician can evaluate your RV or home’s electrical system, including circuit capacity and load calculations. They can make any necessary adjustments to optimize the electrical system for the soft-start device installation.
By hiring a professional electrician, you can have peace of mind knowing that the installation will be done correctly and safely. The electrician will have the necessary tools, knowledge, and expertise to handle the installation process efficiently and effectively.
It is recommended to consult a professional electrician to evaluate your specific situation, provide guidance on compatibility and installation requirements, and install a soft-start device for your air conditioner.
They are easier to install than you may think, but it does require getting on your RV roof and opening your A/C cover.
Installing a soft start device for an RV air conditioner typically involves the following steps:
- Research and Purchase: Research different soft-start devices available on the market and choose one compatible with your RV air conditioner model. Purchase the device from a reputable manufacturer or authorized dealer.
- Read the Instructions: Carefully read the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
It’s important to understand the specific installation process for the particular device you have purchased. - Disconnect Power: Ensure the RV’s electrical power is disconnected before proceeding with the installation. This may involve disconnecting the RV from shore power or turning off the generator.
- Locate Air Conditioner Control Board: Locate the control board of your RV air conditioner. The control board is typically found within the air conditioning unit itself, and accessing it may require removing the unit’s cover or accessing the control board compartment.
- Follow the Wiring Instructions: The soft start device will include detailed wiring instructions. Follow these instructions to connect the device to the control board and the appropriate electrical connections. Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated.
- Test and Verify: Once the device is installed, reconnect the power source and test the air conditioner. Verify that the soft-start device is functioning correctly and that the air conditioner starts smoothly without causing any electrical issues.
The costs of installing a soft-start device for an RV air conditioner can vary depending on the specific device chosen and whether you opt for professional installation or do-it-yourself. Soft start devices typically range in price from $200 to $500, depending on the brand and features.
Warranty information varies by manufacturer, so it’s important to review the terms for the soft start device you choose. Generally, warranties range from 1 to 5 years and cover manufacturing defects and certain malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What exactly does a soft start device do for my RV?
A soft start manages the “inrush current,” the massive spike of electricity required to jump-start your air conditioner’s compressor. Gradually ramping up power over a few seconds prevents sudden surges that often trip breakers or cause lights to flicker when the cooling kicks in.
Q. Can I run my A/C on a small generator if I install a soft start?
Yes, this is one of the primary benefits. Many portable generators or smaller shore-power connections (like a 20-amp household outlet) cannot handle the initial startup spike of an RV A/C. A soft start lowers that threshold, allowing your system to start successfully on limited power sources.
Q. Do I need to buy a separate device for each air conditioner on my roof?
Yes. Because each air conditioner has its own independent compressor, each unit requires its own soft start device to manage its specific power delivery and startup sequence.
Q. Will installing a soft start void my manufacturer’s warranty?
It depends on the manufacturer. Some brands view aftermarket wiring as a warranty violation, while others allow it if the work is performed by a certified technician. Always consult your A/C unit’s warranty documentation before beginning the installation.
Q. Is this a DIY project, or should I hire a professional?
While the installation is straightforward for those comfortable with wiring, it requires climbing onto the RV roof, removing the A/C shroud, and identifying specific wires on the control board. For guaranteed safety and to ensure the unit is wired correctly, hiring a professional electrician or RV technician is highly recommended.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to
All About RVs
Final Thoughts
The cost of installing a soft-start device can vary depending on the specific device chosen and whether you opt for professional installation or do-it-yourself installation. Soft-start devices typically cost between $200 and $500.
Warranty coverage for soft-start devices varies by manufacturer, and it is important to review the terms of the specific manufacturer you choose. Warranties generally range from 1 to 5 years and cover manufacturing defects and certain malfunctions.
A soft start device is a “must-have” for any RVer who wants to ensure reliable cooling, especially in high-heat environments like Southern Texas and Florida, where electrical systems are pushed to their limits. By smoothing out the compressor’s startup, the device not only prevents the frustration of a failed A/C unit during a hot night but also extends the overall lifespan of the air conditioner’s mechanical components.
Whether you choose to install it yourself or hire a professional, the investment pays for itself through improved efficiency and the ability to camp comfortably in remote locations.
It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines, consider professional advice, and follow proper installation procedures to ensure a successful installation and optimal performance of the soft start device.
Don’t wait until it’s too late!
