The ONE AC Upgrade Every Homeowner Needs to Consider!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ย. 2024
- In this video, I will be testing and showing how to install the new Micro Air EasyStart Flex soft starter. These are made primarily for those wanting to get their inrush current down for a generator or solar. But the fact is, every homeowner can benefit from it extending the life of and protecting the compressor, easier starts, fixes light flickering, quieter starts, diagnostics, and more!
🧰 Products In The Video 🧰 (High Demand During Hurricane Season)
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1-1.5 Ton AC Micro Air Soft Starter X36: amzn.to/3yQlQQU
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Klein 2 in 1 5/16 & 3/4 Driver: amzn.to/4fHK80h
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3/4" Liquid Tight Fitting: amzn.to/4fOen5C
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Important Note! I know I will get questions and comments about this so I wanted to pass this along. From what I have observed and experienced myself, the soft starters will go in and out of stock during hurricane season as they are in very high demand. I also have links to the older models listed in the description as they work similarly to the Flex. The biggest differences are the previous models are bigger and need specific sizing. So check back regularly. I am curious though, what are your thoughts on these and do you personally have any experience with them?
Shame that most of you are too incompetent to understand when we are telling you why you need to put additional Parts onto an air conditioner
@@jimreeds9731-not exactly sure who this is directed to? Are you an AC guy that does this sort of work and you are saying your customers are incompetent when you are telling them they need this? Is that your beef?
I do mobile power (AC units on trucks/campers/ect). These are great for those applications. Keeps the AC alive longer.
@@jimreeds9731 Jim?
I have had one on my 6ton AC unit, and love it, plus easy to understand and install. Thanks for the review and update. My in-rush dropped from something like 105LRA to 49A! No issues.
I bought one going on 2 years ago for my 5-ton unit here in Arizona. It sees a lot of run time and is controlled by 2 thermostats....that means it could shut off after satisfying one zone and then start back up within seconds later for the other zone. The compressor is made for that, no stalling. I wasn't sure of the original starting amps before I installed it, by now after looking at the APP, I see14,000+ starts and I think it's going to make the compressor live a lot longer. The "Last Start Peak" amps was 34A. I'd say that's pretty respectable. FYI, the APP is only visible via Bluetooth when the unit is running.
installed the older version of this 6 months ago, what a difference! no blinking of lights and now I have zero issues running the whole house off my generator.
A couple of notes on the Soft Start and inrush current. A multimeter averages the inrush over a 100 mSec sample time typically. If the inrush takes longer than that it will give a good reading. If less then it will read low. Since inrush normally will be between 100 and 150 mSec this is not normally a problem. But if you have a hard start, it will reduce the time to around 50 mSec, so the reading on the meter can be nearly half of the actual. This has confused many people who think that a hard start also decreases the inrush current, when in reality it increases it but decreases the time.
Some contactors have spade lug quick connects instead of screw terminals. For those you do not have to cut any wires at all, but simply install the mating lugs on the soft start wires to properly connect.
Mounting of the soft start can be simplified by screwing Rubber Coated Neodymium Magnets for feet on the unit and hanging it anywhere on the steel housing you want.
Thanks! I had been wondering why my hard-start showed less inrush amps then the soft-start, but the soft-start was the only device allowing startup on generator!
@Sam-ys4pc it is 60hz and a clamp meter can read the soft start. Ignore this guy. He doesn’t understand how this works and has told some pretty wild stories in another thread. He has no experience with it but somehow is an expert. 😂. Only thing he got right is you won’t be able to read a hard start in rush reading as it is too fast and the meter can’t capture it. Can easily verify this with a simple search. It’s not because it isn’t 60 hz either because it is. 🤪
My 3 ton unit went from 88.3 inrush pre-install to 19.5 inrush post install with the Flex. And the Bluetooth reporting app works beautifully.
this is the kind of technology that should be standard in these systems! thanks for the video, very informative.
I'm really surprised it's not. Is this device just for old systems, or do they still sell AC like this in the USA? In New Zealand and Australia, they are all inverter models and have been for a very long time (15-20 years?) - the compressor varies it's speed. Once the room achieves the set temperature it does not necessarily switch the compressor off, it keeps it running at a slower speed to maintain that temperature. That also means they always soft start.
@@craig00000 Inverter compressors are basically unheard of here, as are heat pumps. Usually only the higher end units have it, or smaller mini splits.
It takes regulation but seeing how GOP freaks out about their gas ovens then you’ll never see it pass.
This comes from the RV industry and they are only know just starting to build this in some models of RV AC units.
@@ColHunterGathersperhaps they should leave the gas ovens alone and focus on increased energy production and efficiency. This would drive costs down for just about everything.
I started using Micro Air Soft starts years ago on our camper's AC. We lived in South Louisiana and when we travel, I can place a 2300 watt generator in the bed of the truck and power one of the AC's, run the camper's residential refrigerator, and battery charger. When we stop for a break, the inside of the camper is comfortable enough for a nap, have a meal, or just relax, no matter where we are. Before the soft start, the generator's breaker would kick out every time the compressor would come on. After seeing how well that worked on the camper, I installed a Micro Air soft start on the condenser on the house. I have a 5500 Watt generator that I had been running for the house. Before the soft start I couldn't run the central AC on the 5500 W generator. Sometimes the AC would start, sometimes it wouldn't, but it was cringing listening to the strain on the condenser and the generator. I kept 3 window units on hand and would place them in the windows ahead of a hurricane. I could run those on the 5500 W generator without issue, but that was a pain in the ... I thought about the soft start on the camper and figured that that should take care of the house AC. I purchased the appropriate Micro Air Soft Start and installed it. Don't let the pre-read of the instructions scare you. When you sit in front of the AC and the Micro-Air and take one step at a time, it's easy. I ended up going through about 8 or 9 hurricanes after the micro air install, running on generator from a few hours to several weeks, all running on that 5500 W generator running our whole house. The Micro Air Soft Start was worth every single penny spent!!!! We have since moved to Central Florida and one of my first tasks was to install the soft starts on both condensers (new house is twice the size and 2 stories). I had inherited a 12,000 W generator when my father passed. That will run just about anything, but uses twice the fuel (I installed a tri-fuel kit where I can run gasoline, propane, or natural gas). I have set up the new house to be able to use either generator. With the soft starts in place, I can run one central AC unit on the 5500W generator. I can get both AC's to start and run for about a minute or so, then the breaker trips on the 5500 W generator. Has nothing to do with the starting, but with the running amperage. What it does prove is how valuable the soft starts are, that I can get both AC's started and running. I took meter readings and all that good stuff, but I purposely didn't include them in this comment. For most people, real applications make the most sense. Bottom line, if you plan on using a generator to run your house in the event of a power outage, and would like would like to run your central AC, include a soft start as part of that plan or current setup. You won't be disappointed. BTW, I have installed several on friend's RVs and houses. I haven't heard of one failure, or even one negative comment.
How do you connect your 5500 w generator to the breaker box?
@@Wes_Sherman
Look up an interlock device for your service panel.
Adding a “input breaker” and box , 30-50amp
@@Wes_Sherman I have a 50 amp plug/ box, with the proper plug leaving female plug on the cord). The box is wired with 6 gauge wire (for the 50 amp possible feed) to the top slot in the breaker panel with a disconnect/ Interlock that only allows the breaker to be placed into the on position when the main breaker is in the off position. I put a 50 amp female plug on the end of my 30 amp cord for the 5500 watt gen. This setup allows me to use either my 5500 W or my 12.5 kW generator by having 2 different cords.
As a homeowner for over 12 years and having the ASY-368-X48-BLUE unit for about 3 years; it has saved me on at least 2 HVAC truck roll calls. The going rate in my area for a bad run capacitor is about $125 part included.
Speaking from experience of the situation of a bad run capacitor, when the compressor goes into thermal overload; the housing of the compressor will hot enough to fry an egg on it. The conundrum is how long has this been going on before you discovered it. The EasyStart unit has the brains learn what is normal and what's not then does its thing quietly in the background.
For those who are on the fence about purchasing one, it's not an inexpensive device. If you have plans to run your A/C on solar backup battery or generator during a grid outage, definitely save up for it. I've kept myself cool during an 8+ hour outage when it was 92°F feels like 116 outside is priceless.
PSA: when the inevitable time comes to replacing a bad run capacitor, I highly recommend to initiate the relearn process after the new capacitor is installed. It'll work fine if you don't do it, but it doesn't hurt to have the soft start optimize itself with the new capacitor. Another benefit is that when your old unit needs to be replace, it can be transferred to the new unit and relearned.
Run capacitors run $10 to $20. I keep a spare on hand at all times. If you can install a soft start, you can replace a cap.
Capacitor is 20$ and a 5 minute TH-cam video, suuuuper easy. No need to ever call a A/C company to do it if u don’t want to
Capacitor replacement in Houston, TX is typically $250 or more. I do my own and help friends with theirs for a much more reasonable cost.
Just replaced the capacitor and the contactor on mine. 12 bucks for the capacitor and 24 bucks for the contactor.
I installed the prior model on my home AC even though I don't have a generator. It's awesome. The lights no longer dim on AC startup, I'm no longer woken up by the clank of the compressor starting at night, and it has overcurrent shutdown protection that saved me a very expensive compressor replacement when my capacitor gave out.
If lights dim on startup, you might want to investigate the real reason instead of treating the symptoms.
Usually insufficient incoming capacity, too small wire to the unit, bad connections, etc.
@@crazysquirrel9425 one leg of the crimp at the weatherhead was failing, even after it was fixed this continued. It AC has 8 gauge all good connections straight back to the breaker box. The box is 150 amps, and it does this with only the AC and a few lighting loads.
It's a 28 year old AC and I don't have a high enough resolution amp meter since your average one can't read correct LRA but I expect it is much higher compared to newer compressors.
@@colinnwn Voltage drop from pole to house?
Weak connections at the pole?
Aluminum wiring from pole to house?
Wrong gauge wiring from substation to pole?
Too many people (houses) on the supply line?
With a 150 amp box, you should have any blinking.
Maybe the neutral is one issue?
Or maybe you just have a bad compressor?
Takes a long time to figure out the issue(s) sometimes.
@@crazysquirrel9425 voltage sag on one leg on the house side caused by bad splice at the weatherhead. But dimming (not flickering) had been happening since we moved in 7 years prior, and continued 4 years after that fix until I installed the soft starter. No neutral issues. I do have aluminum service drop. Lineman from my TDSP came out and identified that issue. If he didn't investigate your other possibilities not much I can do about it.
I wouldn't be surprised if it's a 'tired' compressor. But it has run for many years that way and I'll run it till it has a functional problem. A soft starter was a more economical fix than a new $15k system until then.
@@colinnwn All moving parts wear even with lubricant. For an old system, it is quite possible that the compressor oil thickened with wear particles.
Think along the lines of dirty oil in a car motor.
An AC tech should be able to do an oil test, even recover, filter, and replace the refrigerant and oil plus add in a new line filter.
Again, think changing your motor oil and filter here.
Newer lubricants are better than the old ones too.
Doesn't hurt to give a company a call and ask a few questions.
If they tell you that it doesn't do that then call another company.
If necessary call an HVAC school.
Soft start is just a band aid of sorts.
No different than using thinner oil so your car stars easier.
But that is a tradeoff...
One of the biggest problems with new A/C's is the very LOW quality they make the parts now. Especially the coils.
Hard to clean the outside parts of the coils and the inside parts clog easily due to a sorta spongy metal they have in the coils.
Not all use that but many do.
And the metal is THIN. Made to leak just after the warranty is up. Or about every 5-10 years.
You could just have the compressor changed out thus giving new life to your system.
A good tech can do it in about 1/2 day or so.
Having them flush your lines can remove contaminants too.
Hint: the longer and deeper the vacuum on a system, the longer the system can last.
Some techs cheat on this part to keep prices low.
Vacuum needs to be less than 500 microns for 1 hour and only change to the vacuum is 1psig. 200 would be great!
Moves more than 1psig or above 500 microns for 1 hour, more vacuum is needed or you have a leak somewhere.
If they go deeper than 200 then it vaporizes the oil in the compressor.
Installed the original on my 25 year old 10 seer ruud a couple years ago and it has been working flawlessly. In fact it has even safely cut power to my unit a few times when real faults occurred that might otherwise be dangerous like when the compressor wires rusted off the posts and started shorting. That might have easily saved me an entire system replacement plus it actually told me exactly what was wrong so I could fix it myself through their diagnostic app. I just wish their app could connect with the unit even when there is no call for air and ideally have it connect via WiFi and integrate into smart homes via matter. Haven't noticed any drop in energy bills but it is quieter. Hoping to get another 25 years out of it.
I have the old model and it reduced me from 127LRA to 24 amps. Very impressive.
Works great under generator power.
I was never able to get the Bluetooth app working, but Micro-air saw my comment on one of their videos and contacted me right away and got me set up on the app. Amazing company and WONDERFUL easy start.
I don't think you can change your LRA. Is it possible you meant RLA?
@ericallen7200 i ended going through support about Bluetooth, and turns out it's only used for support purposes, and requires a special app and code.
@@jamesbsa6450 Actually, the app is great and allows me access to reset and to see all the trouble codes (there were none)
Amongst other things.
The app will only work while the unit is running.
@@user-lm9gs5vt1q isnt that the whoooole point of installing a soft start kit, to reduce the LRA? (That was a rhetorical question, btw). RLA isnt affected by a "soft start kit", the name sorta gives it away.
I have a 24KW get set that just could not get a 5 ton A/C unit running with the other 4 smaller units I have. I added the EasyStart to the 5 ton two years ago and with frequent power outages it has done its job perfectly. Excellent product and they have great support. Like he says make sure you get the right one for your unit.
Fantastic video. Forget the installation instructions that come with a Micro-Air Easy Start. This video makes it so much easier to understand. Took 15 minutes to hook up and that included drilling a hole to run the cable through.
These work, installed mine a few days ago on a 14yr old 5 ton Carrier. LRA was 117a, then after install 23.7a. A huge improvement. Haven't tried a generator yet.
Oh my gosh, one of the first guys on TH-cam to actually get it right. Inrush is what you measure, not Max amps. Good job.
I have the older model and it still works great with bluetooth. I covered it up so it's not in direct sunlight. No need to upgrade to the new one, it's just smaller. Still hard to start/run a 5 ton with a generator. 2 PowerWall 3's to be installed very soon.
Put one of these in three years ago. Still going strong and ran A/C through two hurricanes and several power outages. Fiber optic internet stayed in service too. Crazy. Portable generator and soft starter combo installed DIY for under 1600.00. I've been through power loss in many hurricanes for two weeks to a month. It's miserable. Never again!
Great video. I'm glad this works for you guys. Just one thing, as a licensed electrician, I need to stress to you to use the connector manufactured for the application. Do not use a sealtite (either metal or plastic) connector or a rubber bushing for the micro-air cord. Use the proper size cord grip connector.
Also, nice work using the Klein ratcheting terminal crimper.
Actually every home owner should know that the AC industry has been selling you technology that is archaic for decades. The only reason you need to buy one of these things is because your current compressor is either FULL power on or FULL power of, because of this your compressor needs a ton of power to start up - given that it always has to run at 100%. Thus the need for this device to make it easier for your FULL ON compressor to turn over and start up - which YES saves you some electricity and wear and tear on your AC when you use this device. That said, every home owner should actually replace their AC with a NEW variable speed DC system - when the chance arises to do so. Variable speed compressors are not always ON or OFF, they run at varying speeds depending on the needed output required, they start slow and ramp up which makes them super efficient, long lasting and very quiet.Most importantly variable speed system SAVE YOU MONEY. The variability of operation results in large energy cost savings. So instead of investing in this device, if your AC is old, maybe look into a NEW variable speed A/C system instead.
And they cost a damn fortune now? Thanks to our EPA
Can you give us an example? How can I identify if the AC/heat pump has a variable speed DC system?
@@danwaller5312Not really. It's actually thanks to these greedy companies taking advantage of their customers.
I'd have to honestly disagree with you about variable speed A/C's and saving you money! I install them. They cost too much now and in the long run you never reach the savings amount. Maybe, just maybe if they only gave out the rebates they did years ago, talking about $3k-$6k off a high efficiency unit back then.
@@alanfong8569often called "inverter" around here anyway.
It does make the electronics more complicated, thus harder to fix one part of it. If that matters depends on how much does a dude to fix your ac cost compared to ac price.
Haven't noticed really any difference in running costs though.. But you'll get like more stable temps with them, it doesn't make the compressing overall needed to keep it at below x celcius need less power as such.. It can just run at partial power to keep it stably at it.
I will be getting one of these. Will be nice to be able to run AC from a generator. Great video too. Easy to follow.
I installed one last year - not so much for use with a generator but because the unit outside is a little bit more quiet since my outdoor unit is right outside my living room wall. Well worth it!
They also offer an install kit that provides the liquid tight fitting and other miscellaneous bits like the spade connectors that makes the install trivial. It's like $10 and also well worth it.
@@Sam-ys4pc Why would it void the warranty? If anything a soft start will dramatically lengthen the service life of the compressor.
@@Sam-ys4pc I didn't get it to run on a generator. I got it (as I stated originally) to quite the compressor down - which it did just enough to make it barely noticeable in my living room.
All you are revealing with your underpowered generator comment is your utter ignorance of basic electricity and how motors work 🙄
@DocNo27 he’s commenting all over this video. The more he talks the more he exposes how little he knows about it. Glad to hear it was able to quiet your unit down!
@@HowToHomeDIY he's the kind of person who probably thinks "Warranty void if sticker removed" mean something too 🤣
@DocNo27 😂 I think you’re exactly right.
Great Info! Your channel has been so helpful. I just started making how-to electrical videos on my channel as well. Haven’t had the time since I started my company 3 years ago. Thanks for the continued inspiration! You’re bringing value to so many!
I have 4 Ton unit and working great on portable generator during recent Texas storms! Game changer, and the new Flex unit just came out after mine but nice to see improvements too! ❤🎉
Ive heard that if i have a 50 amp generator but my ac is a 60 (which mine is) it will not work. Will these make it work due to the soft start being added, by chance do you know?
@@johnny.9879- you need to restate your question. I don’t understand what you’re saying and I am very familiar with this topic. Can you clarify?
Love the video! I'd like just a bit more on how to interpret the installation guide on the unit that helped you understand HOW to connect. Great info!
Just installed this in my heat pump went from a 68A LRA to 18.8A LRA now after over 200 starts and it’s so much quieter and will greatly improve the longevity of our unit. Easily worth the sub $400
Bro LRA stands for locked rotor amps if your compressor pulls LRA you have a major mechanical issue with the compressor and if it pulls 18 LRA the mechanical issue has self clearanced I think you mean inrush amps. Compressors do not state RUN load amp because it will vary on compressor load based mostly on OSA temp which will rasie compression ratio as temps increase.
@@angryscottishmechanic848 The current drawn by the motor accelerating from the rest position when rated voltage is applied to the stator is called the locked rotor current. I think you may have misunderstood either the term or what this item does. Instead of a full inrush current of 68A (for example), this will slowly ramp up amps (18.8A) on start up. Thats the whole point of it. Then the RLA will taper way down, once the compressor is running.
@srobeck77 nmmmh, kind of, I've seen a lot of compressors pull lra when the rotor is locked and the inrush current is way higher than lra. Soft starts use a ntc thermistor to create a voltage divider lowering voltage to the windings. Amps are always a product of volts and impedance. Last besides inrush compressor, amp draw normally goes up after running as discharge pressure increases, and suction decreases compression ratio goes up and the hp required to maintain rpm will increase.
@@angryscottishmechanic848 you lost me on the irrelevancy of RLA for this "soft start kit". This is only regarding LRA at startup.
You mentioned a whole house surge protector video, so I looked for it and realized I’ve watched at least 5 of your videos previously. I am now subscribed, my bad! 😆 My generator is plenty big enough but I don’t care for the flicker on startup so I’ll install this and the whole house surge protector. Thanks for the links also, I’ll grab those Klein crimpers as well.
100% I got to use with new a/c with generator.
Old ac ran no problem but new had issues.
New a/c I could hear and see when the compressor kicked on.
With the micro air it is quiet, and I no longer hear the startup of the unit or see it.
I.e no power surge.
I do believe it is much easier on my compressor.
Thanks, Adam! I don't know if I'm charged for Inrush/Demand Current or not, but I like what this device can do in extending the life of my new compressor. However, $389.00 is a bit much at the moment, so I'll flag this video and the purchase link so I can get one later from your affiliate link. I already have a Surge Protector installed, so that will just make the 2 - 6 Ton AC Micro Air Flex last longer. I don't think there's a Hard Start installed to have to remove first. I have seen my lights dim at times when the compressor kicks on.
You are very welcome! Sounds good and totally understandable. The surge protector in my opinion is important so you are definitely taking good measures! Appreciate the feedback!
Installed mine July 13th the moment I learned of this new model. So glad I waited for this smaller unit I would never have been able to install the larger model inside my unit. Has been working fine since I installed it. Noticeable difference in noise of the unit starting up.
My pump would wake me up when it started. The soft start really helped reduce the bang / buzz at startup. While you're in there change out the contactor and capacitor. They are both easy to change and inexpensive.
I wouldnt change it out to a cheapo contactor. For a little more money, they make alot better ones. You get what you pay for.
Thanks for this video!
Update: FYI: Amazon reviews are bashing this unit. Units are expelling fluids and/or bursting internally...
Just get an HVAC tech to come and install your soft starter. IMHO, even though I could do this with my experience, it's not worth screwing up your system. Yes, it is expensive but so are the electronics in the compressor if you do something wrong. Plus, that capacitor does store a wallop of a charge... Life is already way to short.
I have already addressed this numerous times. There will always be negative reviews on everything. The earliest models of the flex had a part that went bad for SOME people. Naturally when something goes bad those people are the loudest. It has since been addressed by Micro Air for well over a month and anyone that had a claim was sent a new unit or refund.
Excellent! Thanks for following up and pointing that out. I did not know that.
You are very welcome. Would be nice if the people that were sharing their experience would share the whole experience which would include the solution and customer service they got. And I’m saying this as someone who has no ties with the company. Just don’t care to see people unnecessarily bash companies without giving the full picture. Appreciate your input Robert.
I agree 100%! If your going to paint a picture then finish it properly!
My carrier is so loud on start up. 2 years old. I even bought a thick rubber jacket that fits snuggling over the compressor.Helps a little . My neighbor has a Trane .Amazingly quiet
Self installed two of the older units on my 4 ton Carrier Heat pump and 3 ton Lennox Heat pump 2 years ago, been working perfectly since then. LRA went from 88 on the Carrier to 17 and from 63 on the Lennox to 12. Have run both units for 3+ day outages two different times on a 8K watt Champion generator with no problems. Purchased directly from Micro Air. Had a question on install of the first unit on the Carrier and a Micro Air tech emailed me the answer within 1/2 hour of asking the question. Don't think there is electric savings, just easier on the equipment and can run on generator power.
To be honest i considered this one few times already..but for my 17 years old AC i believe it isn't worth it anymore.. it could give up any moment and I think i will replace it for complete new one... but if i knew there was such option at the beginning i would buy it then for sure..
Agreed, not worth it almost $400 part for a unit that old.
I actually disagree with this perspective, as this may actually extend the useful service life of an older unit, buying you more time by making it not work as hard with every start cycle! Not only that, but once you own it, why couldn’t you just use it for the replacement unit when that time comes? Just another angle to consider…
Nice presentation! 👏👏👏 I too am a little concerned about the reliability issues reported on discussion threads on Reddit. It's not a cheap product. But that's OK if it is made to last.
Thank you very much! I am glad you liked it! I personally was not concerned with it and ended up buying this one for a few reasons. I found that many of the reports on reddit and other places were the same people with multiple posts. So I think it is very much the minority having problems as people that dont have issues dont make posts. I have had 2 of their other units in the past, they lasted years, with no issues. I also have talked to the people at Micro Air and their customer service is fantastic. Typically if you e-mail them they get back to you within 30 minutes and they will warranty out the units. Which I saw in most of the posts where the folks said this was the case as well. I have had my Flex installed for 2 months now, no issues. I absolutely will post something if things change as I do not owe Micro Air anything as I bought this myself but I don't foresee that happening due to everything I already said. But anything can happen! Thanks again!
@@HowToHomeDIY I can't tell you how impressed I am that you responded to my comment so thoroughly and so thoughtfully. Please know that such kindness and commitment to your subscribers is not lost on me. BRAVO!!!
I'd suggest folks consider using a Wago 221-612 on the white/brown wires like the Hutch Mountain kit. Why? You're leaving the original connection in place and splice in. There have been a wave of melting capacitors on the last batch of the Micro-Air B34 units. With the Wago it's easy to remove without having to re-terminate the two wires.
The last batch does not have an issue with the caps. It was the very first ones that had issues and were fixed quite a while ago.
I installed a Flex one month ago and no issues, but there is a Reddit thread regarding the high rate of failures with Flex units that have a Serial # lower than 6200-last 4 digits. I believe the firmware is B36 with a S/N higher than 6200 was upgraded with better quality capacitors. If already installed, it may be difficult to determine what firmware / S # you have without removing it.
Do you know if they have recalled or have bypassed these serial numbers already?
@@gagemuellersolarpro - No recall, but if you have a Flex with a serial number below 6200, they will send a replacement. I received mine in mid July and it’s been fine. No faults reported on the app since installation.
So if you need reference material on wiring ampacities, check out Table 310.16 in the National Electric Code. Make sure you are paying attention to "insulation type" of your cable and the ambient temperature or condition its installed; whether in a wet location or not. You could also get ahold of an "Ugly's book"(field reference hand-sized booklet). They come in very handy.
I always install the breaker in its slots before wiring to it, especially with larger wire. There are times when its necessary to wire the breaker first and most likely the case here. The termination ports can face towards the back of the panel more on some types/brands/styles of panels.
On my old single stage unit I had installed a "hard start" device so it didn't slam all the power at once on start up as this does bad things to the unit over time. Well my old unit finally expired after 13 years. I now had a Daikin Fit inverter system installed and .... with the inverter system the power starts very low and ramps up after the unit starts. The unit is super quiet and you have to be standing next to it to even tell if it's on. Happy happy with the Daikin Fit !!
Great video. Wish I saw this a week ago because I just bought & installed the 'regular' X364 soft starter and would've gone with this Flex version instead since I had to externally mount my box and the Flex is quite a bit smaller. Otherwise, I'm so glad I installed the Micro Air EasyStart unit on my old AC unit as it's made a noticeable difference with the current draw and the start up AND shutdown, as the motor now sounds much healthier than the usual loud clunk noises previously at both startup and shutoff.
Yeah I hear you on the size difference but rest assured you still got a great unit. Same technology. Really glad to hear you got such great results! It really is amazing!
As usual your videos are very educational and informative I have a better understanding of this item that yes I’m buying and now with your help I can install myself kudos to you I’m subscribing for more knowledge thanks
I just installed one of these on a customer's unit, with LRA of 79, that was bogging down his 22kW Generac generator. After installation, while on generator power, you couldn't even tell when the heat pump powered on. Needless to say the customer was extremely happy.
I just recently purchased the older model after watching your installation video on it not knowing the newer model was out but cant complain i ordered mine from hutch mountain they already have all the hardware installed on the wires to complete the hookup took about 5mins i can now run my 3 ton heat pump with my 9000 starting watt generator without any strain
I just did mine yesterday its very nice mine was 110,to 35 amps on rush 13 running amps love it 4 wire easy install
This looks like it would be great for RV AC's where a lot of people use generators and those generators can get swamped when starting the AC and sometimes trip the breaker.
They do make specific ones for RVs. It is kind of where it got started.
Thank you for the continued concise and helpful content.
You are very welcome! Really glad to hear you are finding so much value in the content. Thanks a ton for the feedback and Super Thanks Jack! I really do appreciate it!
Love your channel bud, you get right to the point vs other channels. Good job!
I have a 5-2-1 hard start, in reduces LRA by 60%, generator starts the AC fine. These soft starts are better, but cost way way more and were out of stock at the time I was looking. The only worry on the micro air sooo many parts and so complex if it breaks out of warranty you are screwed. I think the hard start with potential relay was $60
Just got ours this week. Testing with the before and after on gen power.
Out of stock I’ll keep checking back Thumbs up 👍
Check on Micro Air's website, they appear to be in stock there. Bought mine a few weeks ago but haven't installed it yet.
I bought mine directly from the manufacturer website. Took about a week and a half to arrive.
@@PainShock_99 The cost directly from mfr is $379 not including shipping. What was Amazon charging for the MicroAir Flex, anybody? Amazon is out of stock as of 8-19-2024, maybe because of this great video.
Hey Clarence, they are taking orders for them again as of right now if you wanted to look at them still.
That's wild. I just got mine today lol small world. 💪💯🙏
That is awesome! Let me know what you think. I have loved mine for years.
Our lights used to dim when the ac kicked on. The ac company installed an extra capacitor which fixed that at least.
Dimming, especially if you use LED lights is normal. LEDs are very sensitive to voltage compared to other lighting types. No reason to be worried about it, now if it bothers you that's fine.
Guys. If you're not sure which wire is your compressor RUN wire, you should only have 3 wires coming from your compressor that run into where the capacitor is. They should be labeled R S C. R = RUN, S = Start, and C = Common. The START wire runs directly to the capacitor to the HERM terminal. It is usually either blue or purple. The COMMON runs to one side of the contactor, most likely the left side, T1, and should be black. The RUN wire will go to the other side of the contactor, T2, and is usually yellow or red. Just trace the RUN wire from the compressor to the contactor and that is the wire you splice to the BROWN wire. Then put the WHITE wire where the RUN wire was connected to the contactor. Follow the instructions and be safe. God bless.
You state that the RUN wire goes to terminal T2, but in the video he connects the RUN wire to L2. Please elaborate.
@bchluvrxyz816 the contactor is upside down in the video. Outside of the markings it really doesn’t matter as far as the contactor goes. The line side will be coming from the home and the load side will be the wires going to the compressor and other areas.
@@bchluvrxyz816 Hi. First off, I am NOT an HVAC technician, so take anything I say with a grain of salt 😁. I'm probably like you, a home owner that wants to learn as much as possible about their HVAC system so we can avoid having to wait for, and pay, someone to fix our stuff. With that, I recently installed one of the MicroAir soft starts on my Carrier 4 ton unit and it's working great. I have OCD, so I've been watching hours of YT videos and looking at online posts regarding proper wiring and caveats to be aware of when attempting to do this sort of thing. Every video or document I've read refers to the L1 and L2 lugs on the contactor as where the main 220 volts come in and the other side of the contactor, where the common and run wire is connected, are referred to as T1 and T2.
Now, I also found that not every contactor is labeled this way. Some just have numbers on them. The main thing to be aware of is where your main 220 comes in on the contactor. The common and run wire will be on the other end. Also, the common and run wires may not always be C on the left and R on the right. That's why I made a note to mention in my original comment that you NEED to trace your RUN wire FROM the compressor back to the contactor. Your contactor may be mounted upside down or sideways.
A few of the videos that I found educational, other than the OP here, are 'How to WIRE an AC Contactor' by Breeze AC SRQ and other, really old, videos by a man named David Jones. His compressor wiring tutorials are really great.
To be honest, I actually reached out to the company that installed my Carrier about 4 years ago about installing the soft start for me and they said that they don't do that due to potential liability issues and that they don't even sell them. So, here we are. 😀
And just like everyone in every video states, PLEASE make sure you test for live wires before doing any of this stuff. You want to save money, not have your family spending it on your FINAL expenses. 😁 Take your time and ask questions. I did and I'm happy that it all worked out. Albeit a year after I bought the dang thing, but I HAD to make sure I did it right the first time. Good luck and God bless. 👊
@@HowToHomeDIY Thank you and Great Videos. Your videos inspired me to tackle installing a soft start to begin with. 😃 I'm planning to do the stand by generator wiring and interlock next. I hope I didn't steal your thunder by my comments or confuse anyone. We all have to try and help each other as much, and safely, as possible, right? Keep the great videos coming and have a blessed day! 👊
@mikesidden oh no problem at all! I actually really appreciate you contributing and sharing your experience with it. I just wanted to reply to the other gentleman to clarify why what was in the video didn’t fully line up with what you said in regard to the T2/L2. You were correct. So just trying to clear any confusion from it. Like you said and I mentioned in the video make sure to follow the instructions from Micro Air. This video is more for supplementation and visualization. Really glad to hear the videos were able to help and you were able to get yours installed and going! Sounds like you’re well on your way to having your whole home setup. Again, thank you very much for contributing to the community. I try to get to as many comments as I can but can’t get to all of them. It is awesome to see folks like yourself helping others in the comments. So thank you again and hope to talk again soon! God bless you too!
Just be aware. Some condenser brands have the run wire compressor diferent color. Sure comfort brand comes red color instead for yellow.
Adam, thanks for all the informative videos. You explain things very clearly. have you ever made a video evaluating smart chargers such as the NOCO Genius 10 to ascertain if their battery desulfation/repair modes actually work? I bought one and it didnt seem to help. If you did not make such a video, please consider comparing desulfation methods such as by using smart chargers vs using a DC welder to accomplish this feat. Thank You.
Great video. I am getting for my RV so I can run my generator and this looks like the next project.
Great explanation of installation, I have a 3 1/2-ton unit and back up Generac, looking to install one of those units to help when generator is running with AC being used.
It takes a specific amount of power to run an A/C, regardless of any capacitor.
What the soft starter can do is lower your demand meter numbers if you have that meter. Most homeowners do not have that nor would want that kind of meter.
It can help prolong the life of your compressor.
If your lights flicker or dim when the AC starts up, you need to have an Electrician or power company come and investigate your panel and incoming service.
You got more than an A/C issue....
Finally, someone who understands that total power = area under the curve, it's the same (minus minute differences for winding loss during surge) whether you apply 100 amps for 100 milliseconds or 10 amps for 1 second. One thing this guy said really bothered me though, remove hard start kit before installing a soft start kit. If a tech installed a hard start kit it's because the compressor is having a hard time getting out of start and into run, so going to soft start may mean it will never start. However, these are usually only applied to older units. Occasionally I need one of those in the morning too 😂.
@@user-jd5sj8jx7r My hard start int he mornings is a large coffee! Wife's hard start is the flavored fancy coffee.
Yep. I gradjeated skool!
I wonder if you use a stepping system with both hard and soft start caps?
Maybe hard on one winding and soft on the other? Or soft for 1/2 sec then hard after that?
Dunno. Rusty on my electrical theory.
Perhaps a decent inductor added to the system to limit power until saturated?
In power supplies, inductors can be used to limit turn on surge (protect equipment).
If they limit surge on those in theory they should limit surge on motors.
Just tossing out a few ideas.
@@user-jd5sj8jx7r PS I used to work in a rewind shop lol
15 years with out this on my unit still. goin strong.
@@droberts9145 Mine is older than that and still works.
That is the good thing about R22 systems.
They can last DECADES.
Great video, your explanation of this unit is great! Thank you!
Vast majority of US houses, wont be the first link for the 1-1.5 ton starter at 120V. They will be the minimum of the 220V, and at 2-3.5 tons.
I have a 5 ton model. Not the flex. I've only had mine installed for a about 2 billing cycles. And I've seen a 30.00 per month decrease in my power bill. 100 plus degrees in oklahoma.
At first the unit actually was louder on startup. It seems to have become more quite after the first month. I have not used it with my generator yet.
How does your company charge them? Unless there is an amperage charge like he said the running amps is the same.
@@condor5635 Many utilities have demand charges.
@@condor5635 If you have a demand meter these can make a noticeable difference. They are rare but I see them in rural areas - first saw a demand meter at my grandparents out in the sticks. Wish I would have known about these back then; they could have used one on their well pump - you could see the freaking meter move whenever their well came on!
I installed one on my big unit some months ago. The unit starts quieter, but, I have not noticed a drop in my electric bill. I have since seen a video that disputes that it supports the compressor start-up. But, I am content knowing it aids the load on my generator when i have it supplying whole house power. I have seen the generator operate with the soft start and I believe it helps with the surge.
You won't necessarily notice a change on your power bill (unless you get billed for demand power - if you were you'd know it!). It just smooths out the startup amperage; the amount of overall power consumed is still the same - it's not a perpetual motion device 😉
@@DocNo27 agreed. The spiked amp usage is only for a fraction of a section at start up. So your electricity bill wouldn't be affected. This is for compressor longevity, when using a generator, or for noise. Your electricity bill could have been lower due to a cooler summer that year.
Great video thanks for sharing and explaining everything so well and clearly, this looks like the soft start kit i am going to by due to the easy use/compatibility of it. Thank you sir!
I can't speak for how other power companies handle their rates, but ours charges what they call peak rate, and how that is calculated, they take the one hour between 4-7 pm in the summer(6-9am winter) out of the month and whichever 1 hour has the highest KWH use, they add 12.00 per KWH. Now our normal rate is 0.06872 per KWH, so for 21 hours we have really low rates. If you know how to work with those hours, then you can have a super cheap bill like I do.
That is called a demand charge my utility also does that. Soft start won't change that they take their reading over 15 minutes short spikes in current are not counted as part of their calculation. I'm running mine off a inverter and 14k5kw of lithium batteries I power shift charge the batteries up until 4pm then go on battery until 7pm. I plan on connecting panels just haven't gotten to that yet.
@@Mike-01234 I put a timer on the water heater, it's off during peak hours, but I can still shower and not run out of hot water. I run the temp down a couple of degrees on the air conditioner a few hours before peak, so that doesn't run during peak(programmable thermostat) my bill is usually 70.00 for a 1700 Sq ft house, where the neighbors with same size house, same amount of people, run around 150.00 because they didn't do anything to curb use during peak hours!
Im about to order mine watched a few videos on it.
I went with the Micro Air 398 a year ago and just went though a 17hr power failure with Debby here in Florida, my generator ran the whole house! Now I'm wondering if the new Flex is worth swapping out the 398 now. Amazon does show the Flex unavailable at the moment, a testimony to the demand I'm sure!
GOttA Get one of Those. Awesome!!! Thanks for the heads up
My tech told me my compressor was locked. The LRA was high and it would not start. Somehow, it magically started working. No hard start added. My question is, if the compressor is difficult to start, will this be able to start it?
I went to install this unit (previous model correct for my condenser) on my factory 3 Ton unit that is about 30 years old and works perfectly but has had to capacitor replacements in 30 years. My Carrier unit has a Factory Start assist (a small yellow thingy about the size of two golf balls) and some sort of compressor restart delay board. ALL the TH-cams showing how to install these do not show anything like my set up so I can not do it. Where can I get assistance? Do I pull all the Carrier Factory stuff out, do I just replace my Factory Start assist out? Again, where do I get help? I just need my generator to be able to start my A/C which it will do a couple times without this unit, but then it just trips the breaker.
great video
Yes my license covers that work! I will get with you about coming by for estimate!
Huh?
Those caps in the new model look much more work to replace compared the older model.
Easy Starts are great.
I have a TRANE system. I tried talking to my local rep and to TRANE Corp. Neither would or could give me any info on whether this product is supported by TRANE or if it will void the TRANE warranty. Buyer beware.
I’ve been looking at the Flex. I’m a little concerned about the longevity reading reviews on the Reddit Generator page.
Good call out. Of course Reddit is a mixed bag of valid discussions and haters, so read with caution.
In this case I believe most of the folks in that subreddit truly wanted these to work and are disappointed in the quality of the units themselves and the support they are getting from MicroAir.
Thank you. That’s a hard pass for me.
Nicely done. I installed a flex unit on a Bryant 4-ton unit, and the start current went from 105A to 24A. The RLA on the unit is rated ( on the sticker) at 15.5 Aac and now is at 7.3 A, which surprised me. Unfortunately, I didn't verify the 15.5A with my meter before I read the RLA after the installation, but that is what the circuit diagram's current listing says, which sounds right. ??
What are your thoughts on the compressor running cooler on a soft start? It's basically cleaner, controlled energy and improved efficiency--even if only a little better I would think makes a difference in operating temp. Here in Texas, we need all the help we can get.
The IT in me saw the Bluetooth feature and now wants a WiFi option so I can check it from anywhere instead. But looks like I need to get one for my parents. Running amps are around 22-28amps but in-rush is around 137.1amps.
Excellent tutorial, thanks!
Thanks for another great video! Super easy to follow. I bookmarked the previous one you did for the older softstart but never ordered it. Glad I held off, this looks like a much better option. You mentioned they don't work with a hardstart kit. I believe I have one on my AC unit, is there a way I can tell? Thanks.
All of the amazon links say it ( and the others) are not in stock!
What will adding one of these devices do to the warranty of the unit? My Trane XL15 heat pump is just over 1 year old.
Shouldn't do anything per the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. This law states that aftermarket parts alone cannot void a warranty unless they directly cause a problem. Also, Micro Air offers a warranty with the soft starters on the compressor.
GREAT question
If its a brand new heat pump, its probably an inverted compressor, so this wouldnt be benefical.
Tesla installed a soft start unit on our house as part of the solar and battery installation. It has worked well and has let us use the AC during grid outages.
20 years later, you will have made up the electrical costs. But by then, it just broke and you have to start all over with new equipment....
@@srobeck77 unfortunately not. The utilities keep raising rates. We originally projected payback in 9 years. Now with the higher rates it is about 6-7 years. Rates are jumping 20% over last year. Fortunately we only pay a connect charge.
@@JBoy340a its cause the "eco-friendly" people keep paying $55k (for a base model Tesla) and sucking off the power grid. Im so glad we are paying the first $7500 tax credit for every EV car owner for that non-sense.
Anyways, most homeowners move on average 5-8 years, so you prolly wont still be there by then statistically speaking. Electricity has barely gone up in my area. Sounds like you live in get woke, go broke California.
Awesome video! Will be buying on locally this week.
Interesting. Where are you able to get them locally?
@@HowToHomeDIY
Southland RV
Norcross
GA
30071
1794 Bolton Circle
(504) 529-7869 here in Georgia. They also do solar items.
Thanks for the video I was watching your video and following along reading their install PDF. They could do a better job of writing this up. They focus on lot of wires that are not involved like the run cap wire to the contactor. Need to just focus on what wires need to be removed. Most AC units the pages are in the middle of the PDF where section 1 discusses Comfort alert models have compressor monitoring IMO the most common should be first and less common install should be afterwards. I was able to get mine connected after I read the guide and watched your video I just paid $8800 for my new AC unit last thing I need is wire it up wrong and blow out the compressor. Now I understand how to connect it would be easy a 2nd. Compressor first time turned on seemed to strain little I was concerned the box wasn't working run wire was dead. I used my clamp current meter it was reading the same as before. I know probably would not have even started up without the run wire.
made in china for $5
@@TheUnofficialMaker No Micro-Air is made in the US it's a small family owned company. I know what you mean manual from China looks like. I worked in the electronics industry what happened here is likely the electrical engineer wrote this they didn't hire a technical writer to do it. Most EE's are terrible at explaining how to do something to someone who has no understanding of electronics. I used to work with them on a daily bases as an engineering tech.
so i actually studied this and actually designed my own soft starter myself from a microcontroller, TRIACs, and start capacitor, and other associated electronics, essentially what it does is temporarily put a start capacitor in parallel with the run capacitor while ramping up the voltage on the run winding using a TRIAC, once the voltage shoots up across the start winding it means the motor has started spinning and you can remove the start capacitor and run full voltage across the run winding, my own project reduced the starting amps on a window unit like 60%+
You may have a good understanding of electrical circuitry, but your grasp of basic english sentence structure was at a Kindergarten level at best. (A dead giveaway is using the word "and" 5 times in the same paragraph).
@@srobeck77 im an engineer, not an english teacher, and im not writing a fucking technical paper in a youtube comment
I wish I would’ve known about these before I blew up several inverters.
Wait what? An inverted compressor already does this on its own without this device. Sounds like there was a component failure or it was wired up correctly when it was installed.
That's a huge difference. Hi there, I don't know really anything about ac units but have been there when I had a repair guy fixing the capacitor and showed me that it was bulged so if it happened again I could just look at it and see which one was bad. So I don't have anything like a generator or solar panel but have the issue with the lights dimming or flickering so this would take care of that on the ac and heat when they start up did I hear that correctly even though I'm only run regular power and other supplemental power sources. Where do I find out what ton ac unit that I have if I decide to get this soft start until? Thank you!! PS how can I get it for the furnace too that also does the same thing which I asked earlier in my comment or is there anyway that it can work on both of them? Thank you!!
I think this makes sense for traditional compressors.. not those with inverters. Anyone buying a new AC basically should get one with an inverter and a whole house SPD with proper grounding.
If you cannot replace your old AC then sure that's helpful but for $390... I'd just save up a bit and replace the AC with an inverter
Save up "a bit more"? I think it is a little more than a bit more for a new ac unit, especially the ones you are referring to.
@@HowToHomeDIYwell typically I use 12000btu ac and I bought them for 450 each about 5 yrs ago branded. Carrier model xpower
Ok that unit would not heat and cool my whole home or even most homes. That is for one larger room. It’s a mini split system. Those are also selling for $1,000+ a piece now without install. It’s an apples and oranges comparison.
@@HowToHomeDIY Yep, in my country most of the time there's no single unit that covers 1 house. It's 1 split system per room and price I quoted includes a back to back install. We also never really use heating because temps never drop below 15C. So effectively we would need that device x n number of units. Hence my point. IF that device can accommodate hungrier systems like you showed spiking to 120A+ then that's cool and I can't comment on value because I'm not sure how much these cost
I'm one of those "Men" 😂.
She did help me get pointed in the right direction!
My path to recovery was a bit different, but we are all different & have to find the one that works for you!
I've got peace in my soul, I can't ask for more than that!
Interesting technology. My guess is this would be great for older systems, but would they be of any benefit for inverter driven and ECM equipped systems (My Trane system has both inverter for HVAC compressor and ECM for air circulation).
ECM indoor fan motor has nothing to do with this. This only affects the compressor, but if its an invertor compressor, theres no point to using this.
Great video. Thank you for sharing
Does buying and installing this particular unit have any advantages over buying and installing the older larger units that are specifically designed for the different size A/C units?
Be careful most thermostats have a delay built in . So if you have a delay built in to your stat you will have wait again for your soft start to kick in also ! I hope they build in a shut off for the delay
Yes, thermostats do but I don't understand what you are warning against though when it comes to the soft start?
@@HowToHomeDIY warning that these ac are designed temperature is for 80degrees we are allowed to go just a bit bigger ton wise than the design temperature. so when you are in the higher temperatures like 90 and 100 degrees if you have a 5 minute short cycle delay on your thermostat and another 5 min short cycle delay on the soft start your going to be waiting around 10 minutes before the ac kicks on ! So you may want to turn off one of the short cycle delays to help keep the temperature maintained . Some thermostats are designed to be turned off some are not ! So hopefully through the app you can turn the short cycle delay off on it ! I like this product just want to make sure someone don’t think it’s not working correctly if the ac don’t keep up in the hotter temps . Oh and by the way your ac looked like it had a timer board some of those boards may 3 to 5 minute timer you may be possibly adding three short cycle time delays to your system ! Yes my profession is heating !
@kentkurt9065 yeah I gotcha. So I believe the default delay on the soft start is 3 minutes as well and that time starts the same time as the thermostat. You can change it in the app to whatever you want though.
@@HowToHomeDIY that is pretty cool! They thought of everything! I’m getting one for my Rv I love the fact that it doesn’t slam the compressor on !
Other than it being esthetically unpleasing, it's a good idea
....and costing $400
My Trane unit has 2 compressors. The small compressors runs 85% of the time cooling is called for. What would you suggest?
A starting electrical motor is expected to pull 5 times its current during startup. Not an issue when connected to a grid that has a lot of overhead. A big deal for solar or generator based grid with little to no overhead.
I do not believe that the difference is worth it if you run on the grid. But yes, if you don't use the grid, good idea.
This device will NOT improve the life span of a compressor or a fan motor. That 5x pull is by design for a reason. It will protect and save the solar panel inverter or the generator by preventing overdraft during starting events.
It won’t help the fan but it will help prolong the life of the compressor.
Thank you sir. Great job
If LRC is reduced as shown, that's substantial. While I understand the products operation and primary purposes, doesn't the power company's bill have to be less in every case?
Great Video. Did you use the 1/2" or 3/4" liquid tight fitting? Thanks
Will installing this soft start affect the AC manufacturers warranty?