It is incredible to see how many folks try to sell a hard-start kit to solve an RV AC starting problem related to a smaller size generator; the internet is full of those ads. Sadly, some "novice techs" copy those promising ads from other "novic techs" and now put their hard start up for sale too.
Let me explain a few facts about RV Hard Start Kits:
After over 40 years of experience as a service tech, I feel confident to clarify some misconceptions about RV AC Starters.
1. Anyone who owns an RV air conditioner should get a hard start kit because the stored energy in the capacitor will provide a faster and smoother start, regardless whether you're on shore power or using a generator.
2. A hard start provides additional support for the compressor when the power supply is irregular or if the AC is getting older. As a general rule, a correct sized hard start kit may expand the life of your AC - period
3. Hard start kits don't do much to reduce the starting current effectively, but it sometimes helps when the available capacity of a generator is at the limit. YES - a hard start reduces the amp draw in the starting cycle of a compressor. But it does this in a fraction of a second, which is not always enough time to avoid tripping of the overload on a smaller size generator.
4. Many RV hard-start-kits in the market are by far oversized. That results in a "tough jerk" when the compressor starts, needless to say, that this will severely reduce the lifetime of an air conditioner.
RV air conditioners working hard in the hot summer heat, it's more likely they will break down during this time, when you need them the most...
If you use a portable generator to have your RV air conditioner running when you need it,
get the reliable RV-Hard-Start-Kit™ AND the affordable RV-AC-Starter™ - to be on the safe side!
