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Gormleys · 05-20-2023, 08:16 AM

If this is something that you plan to do often, another option is to install "soft starts" on your A/C's. The problem isn't running the A/C's; it is starting the A/C's. Soft starts change the way that the compressor starts so that it doesn't require as much current. They ain't cheap, but may be worth it if you dry camp or camp in 30-amp sites a lot.

LETMGROW · 05-21-2023, 07:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gormleys

If this is something that you plan to do often, another option is to install "soft starts" on your A/C's. The problem isn't running the A/C's; it is starting the A/C's. Soft starts change the way that the compressor starts so that it doesn't require as much current. They ain't cheap, but may be worth it if you dry camp or camp in 30-amp sites a lot.

This thread brings up a question I have had in the back of my mind for quite sometime.
Why don't the AC manufacturers build these AC units and ship them out with "Soft Start" capacitors already installed so they will operate on a 30 Amp FHU?
I don't think anyone would object to a small price increase in the units if they were more user friendly.

bobmar · 05-21-2023, 09:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LETMGROW

This thread brings up a question I have had in the back of my mind for quite sometime.
Why don't the AC manufacturers build these AC units and ship them out with "Soft Start" capacitors already installed so they will operate on a 30 Amp FHU?
I don't think anyone would object to a small price increase in the units if they were more user friendly.

Excellent point. Common sense has left the room.

twinboat · 05-21-2023, 09:57 AM

Or they don't recommend them.

How can they warrantee a compressor if its allowed to run on marginal power.

Ray,IN · 05-21-2023, 08:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LeeB

Are AC is in the basement

The ColemanMach basement units will run on 30A, but if you have a EMS it will shut off #2 compressor if you turn anything else on.
Here is the service manual that also explains operation.

Cordodge · 05-25-2023, 02:52 PM

I installed a soft start in one of our AC units and I can easily run two ACs on 30 amp. Bit pricey but easy to install and they do what they say.

Ray,IN · 05-25-2023, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cordodge

I installed a soft start in one of our AC units and I can easily run two ACs on 30 amp. Bit pricey but easy to install and they do what they say.

Those devices cannot be used with a basement heat pump, there is no room for mounting one, let alone two.

mahdi · 05-25-2023, 09:16 PM

Soft start also comes as a pedestal unit with surge protection.

Cthecountry · 05-25-2023, 11:07 PM

We use our ac on 30amp shore line and boondocking with 30amp generator all the time with no problems .
Just do not use microwave and Elect hot h20 heater at the same time with ac.

Ray,IN · 05-25-2023, 11:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mahdi

Soft start also comes as a pedestal unit with surge protection.

So how would that interact with the 2 OEM hard-start caps in the electrical box of the basement unit?

Cordodge · 05-26-2023, 04:38 AM

Yeah didn't realize he was talking about a basement unit and I also don't know anything about those but just wanted to give my experience using with the soft start in general. They are like 6"x4"x2" and are fairly simple to hook up

2cyber71 · 05-26-2023, 04:56 AM

30 amp service can run one roof top AC no problem, depending on your EMS you can run two, but you will shed your first AC when you turn on the second one. Once the initial draw gets to 15 amps then the sheded AC will turn on its compressor. Only one problem, once you turn on the Microwave, or anything you will shed your ACs immediately.

Don’t fret. I have an all electric motorhome, even on 50 amps with all 3 ACs running on a hot day, if I turn on the microwave, induction cooktop, or run my washer & dryer I will shed my ACs.

Your EMS should mange the power just fine and not blow a breaker or fuse.

plumber64 · 05-26-2023, 06:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LeeB

Our MH is 50amp. Can we run the AC if we only have 30amp hook-ups?

My question will it do any damage?

Thanks LeeB

We are a 50 amp coach with 2 15 kw heat pumps. Installed 2 SoftStart units and can run both units with no problems. They now have upgraded units that are easier to install. I would go that avenue when only 30 amp supply is what you have.

plumber64 · 05-26-2023, 06:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LETMGROW

This thread brings up a question I have had in the back of my mind for quite sometime.
Why don't the AC manufacturers build these AC units and ship them out with "Soft Start" capacitors already installed so they will operate on a 30 Amp FHU?
I don't think anyone would object to a small price increase in the units if they were more user friendly.

They won't take anything out of their profit margins to solve a known problem.