What is a Soft Starter?

A soft starter is a device used with alternating current motors. They help to reduce the electrical load demand on your generator when energy intensive devices like an A/C or heat pump initially start. This is how they work:

• Temporarily reduce the startup current of the appliance's motor
• Reduce the torque, which aids the motor when starting from a locked rotor condition and improving the motor’s efficiency
• During this process, the input voltage is ramped up slowly, which allows the motor to start with less stress, thus producing a much quieter startup

Additional benefits to utilizing a SureStart Soft Starter include:

• Reducing in-rush current/draw necessary at startup by up to 70%
• Prolongs the life of the A/C unit by reducing excessive torque, wear and tear
• Reduces loud noises, light flickering, and breaker trips
• Plug and Play Installation: Comes with wires and with easy-to-follow instructions allowing for quick and hassle-free installation within minutes
• Broad application: Compatible with air conditioners, heat pumps and air handlers ranging from 1.5 to 7 horsepower and draws 08-32 amps(08-16A & 16-32A).
• Built-in self-learning algorithm & capacitor
• Over-current protection
• Over/under voltage monitoring
• Build-in start capacitator
• LED fault indicators
• Ultrasonic sealed tamper-proof enclosure

You can purchase a SureStart Soft Starter directly from MES, a Generac partner.