My ignorance has cost me nearly 500.00 in the past for a capacitor replacement and a hard start kit installment. I now test and replace my own caps, solid state fuses, breaker box switches, install a wifi smart thermostat and test the entire HVAC system thanx to people like these guys. They have definitely saved me hundreds, if not thousands of dollars as a homeowner, these systems seem to break down at the worst time possible, and I feel empowered having this type of knowledge. THANK YOU FROM CALIFORNIA. YOU GUYS ROCK
I went to trade school in the early 1990s. I got my EPA Certification Type 3, and I tested GAMA certification. I was employed as the in-plant HVAC service/maintenance technician. I was employed at total 30 years. I've been away for a few years, since retired. It is helpful for me to get updates from y/all (yinz).
My goodness. Im a registered nurse for a prof. Your videos makes me wanna learn and become an HVAC technician. But just do it for leisure in helping friends and family so they don’t get taken for a ride by a crooked tech. Keep them videos coming. ❤❤❤❤
Teacher (female) here on a low salary, so I have been fixing my own. Esp. since COVID. I found out how to replace a capacitor. After three years, it is down again, so put one of these hard starter kits (took off my other nonworking unit) and it is working so far. I am going to order another capacitor in the mean time. Just having trouble finding the right size. They are sold out in all places I have looked.
Yes. Appreciate. On my first solo compressor replacement, I actually read manufacturer paperwork. This was for 2 ton Goodman heat pump. Manufacturer states that hard start should be installed at time of install if line set is over a certain length- I believe it was about 80 foot or more. I may be off a few feet. Have 240 of these units at apt complex, running 24/7 in Deep South. I now install on any a/c maintenance call for 2nd and 3rd floor Apts, along with any on ground level that are struggling- pulling high amp. We are in record setting heat wave here and this summer, we have lost much less compressors then any summer before now. I’ve been on property 10 years now. Thankfully, new management listened and willing to purchase, so we can install. 👍 Good stuff man.
I recently replaced the hard start kit in my 8 year old heat pump with the soft start you showed. It used to start with a bang that was loud enough to make you jump but now the fan starts with a relay click, then 3 seconds later the compressor starts. This is so much nicer especially since the unit sits next to the head side of my bed just outside the bedroom wall.
If it had a factory hard start, you better replace it with a factory hard start. You need to have the exact cut in and cut out voltage potential relay matched for the compressor. Look up potential relays and see the dozens and dozens of different cut in and cut out voltage they come in..
Great video. I will keep it in mind because I have an 18 year old R22 Goodman AC 2.5 ton. It still seems to run fine, so I will stick to the old rule : "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." When it breaks I will try your advice.
i have used a 5-2-1 compressor saver(3wire)for 20 years and feel they are an absolute necessity!!! my only advice is to make sure you buy the right one for the correct tonnage of your unit, very important! thanks for the video 🤠
Are there any downsides to a 5-2-1 compressor saver that could damage an otherwise normally working compressor? I read something about if the potential relay going bad and keeping the start capacitor in the circuit and I would have just ruined my compressor. Would love to see a video on this!
Thank you for producing this video. It was very helpful. This week I had my HVAC tech tell me during a spring HVAC check that I should seriously consider installing a hard start kit on my 5 year old heat pump system. They quoted almost $900 installed. I said no as I felt it could be snake oil and would be helping the HVAC company more than me. After watching several videos on the subject, including this one, I learned it probably isn’t a bad idea to have one, but I can do it myself for probably $50. So yes, the HVAC was company is doing very well peddling these to unsuspecting customers.
Congratulations on creating and maintaining an outstanding channel! Great information, along with a crisp and concise delivery. Your channel is a great example of what TH-cam is all about, taking the mystery out of everyday repairs and building self-confidence in the average home fixer. Thank you.
@The DIY HVAC Guy, please watch the video from HVAC school where the instructor talks about the myths behind the hard start kit and how it actually could be harming your condenser. They say that the high inrush current still is very high and is just happening so quick that multimeters are not measuring it, and instead showing false readings that are low.
I have seen it, and I mention that in the video. You must’ve not watched the whole thing. These things have been around for a long time, I’ve seen them do more good than bad, but I’m also a big proponent of the soft start. One is much cheaper obviously but I think both have their advantages and disadvantages. On an upcoming video I’ll talk about both options. Thanks for the feedback. Dave
Thanks for explaining the difference dude. Very hard to find info stating if one is better and you showed they’re the same. I bought both types of kits and went with the two prong for simplicity.
Just trying to help a hard start kit is for a compressor that starts under load like a unit with a non bleed expansion valve. That’s the capacitor with relay hard start kit. The hard start kit does not require 5 minute cooldown for proper operation. Start assist is the two wire kit requires 5 minute cooldown to work properly.
Hi , I already installed a 5-2-1 hard start kit ( with relay ) in my 2 old lennox a/c units. I hope to get a few more years out of them ! Thanks. I'm not waiting for the compressors to fail.
Soft starters are much more effective at extending the life of your compressor than hard starters due to the simple fact that they gradually ramp up the current needed to start the compressor in 4 steps rather than one giant push that hard starters do. Less current, less torque, less stress on internal moving parts and windings. Better for longevity and works beautifully with generator or solar inverter power. More $$ though.
BUT, if the soft start kit has issue then it will send too low of volt or amps and cause problems or damage the compressor. Soft start kits for other non-A/C were sold for years that after a while caused issues and pulled from the market. (I know I lost a washer and dryer due to them and had to replace the boards). So it's a gamble, not picking on the soft start kit for A/C and they are well made but everything has + and - to watch out for. May all of y'alls A/C units last forever. I am on year 23 for mine.
I know you’ve mentioned it in other videos but for those that aren’t aware, these can also be useful if you ever have to run your AC on a generator. The high amp load at startup will trip the breaker on most generators but a hard start kit will lower it just enough that this shouldn’t happen.
@@cilopez155 soft start kits are definitely better but you can absolutely use a hard start kit for use with a generator if you’re trying to stay within a budget. I don’t have any experience on solar power or battery backups so I can’t say for sure if they’d work with a hard start kit.
I have a rheem from 78 changed out everything called a tech didnt do anything but said i needed a new system put the hard start on she:s running good js
I would suggest that if you want to buy a hard start kit that you buy one without the built-in relay...it is not a relay, it is a thermistor. It failed on me after several months. I would recommend a kit with a separate relay to the capacitor. It is my understanding that they are a lot more reliable. I am going off my own experience. I would appreciate the experts commenting on my review. thanks
Thanks for posting this. I am confused though. To my knowledge, the hard start kit consists of a capacitor and some kind of relay to bridge it out of the circuit after start up. If I understand correctly, the theory of operation is that the capacitor charges up, stores a charge, then releases it on the first part of start up before being taken out of the compressor circuit allowing it to recharge. In that case, all capacitors used for hard start have to be charged up (and formed) over at least one cycle before they can be ready to use. In your video, you are taking the current draw off the first start up where the capacitor is not yet charged by the target system. I am thinking that we would need to run the system for a few cycles before using the AMP probe to see the real current draw, no?
A hardstart kit installed where not justified can actually damage compressor. Hardstart kit shortens startup period by increasing the startup torque of motor by using a larger value start winding series capacitor which gets current AC phase between run and start windings closer to 90 degrees phase shift which produces the peak torque (this is what proper Run capacitor value does during run mode). If hardstart kit does not reduce the peak startup current but does reduce startup time to less than about 0.2 seconds, it can subject compressor to excessive mechanical stress that may damage compressor or motor shaft. Going from zero to 3500 rpms in less than 0.2 secs can be mechanically stressful. A hardstart kit is justified if there is too much AC voltage slump during startup due to low grid AC voltage, small wire gauge, or extra-long wire run from electrical breaker panel. This shows up as extended startup time, >0.5 secs. If startup is so sluggish it last about 1 second or longer it usually trips the compressor internal overcurrent protection Kixon breaker. The internal compressor breaker has a limited number of breaks before its contacts are damaged, so you want to avoid if possible. RLA is compressor rated full load Run amperage. Typical compressor run current will be 60% to 65% of RLA rating. Run current will increase as outside ambient temp rises with compressor current approaching RLA level at about 130 degs F ambient temp (which is rarely seen). It correlates to high side refrigerant pressure on compressor discharge port. Softstarter is a combination hardstart capacitor, to increase motor torque, and a startup voltage ramp up via triac or dual SCR 'dimmer' circuit to gradually ramp up AC voltage input. The first five training startups search for optimum voltage ramp up for given compressor setup. Startup time of about 0.5 sec is optimum.
My 15 seer 2 ton Goodman has a PTC thermistor to help it start. I’m considering adding a 3 wire hard to start kit. The question is should I remove the PTC Thermistor?
Thanks for doing this, I’ve been waiting for this. I have a small 6k btu window unit that I want to run off a 2kw generator that I run in eco mode. Problem is the generator does not kick into regular mode quickly enough to handle the compressor starting up. When compressor is running the eco mode works no problem until the compressor needs to turn on again. My question is do I need a hard start kit or a soft start kit? Hard start kits seem to be much cheaper Thanks for any comments.
@@diyhvacguy just last night took my thermastat off and pulled out the wires from the small hole and found a green one unconnected. To think the previous home owner missed out on some glorious air circulation for 20 years.
The hard start kits are way less expensive ($15 -$25) than the soft start ones (around $225) I priced. Is the soft start that much better? Thank you for your advice.
@@diyhvacguy OK, I watched the Soft Start vid and I believe that since my compressor is over 20 years old that the hard start is the way I will go since it should add a few more years to an aged system. My question is are the two HS kits you have the links too universal across all models? I know you have to be specific when replacing the run capacitor, but I don't see that mentioned in the HS descriptions. Thank you for your help.
Yea I installed one right out of the gate on my old system. I recently upgraded to an inverter heat pump that has a built in soft start though. Different device for a different application. I can now run my ac or heat pump with a generator :)
@@diyhvacguy Would the two wire hard start kit be fine on a 1 year old goodman r410a unit with indoor txv? I was getting hard starts it would take 3 minutes for compressor to start. I read that goodman with indoor txv should have one installed when bringing unit into service.
I have heard about soft start kits for a little while now and have wondered if I should invest in one. I have a Heil 2 ton compressor and when it starts up, it makes the typical starting noise and I've been wondering if I did install one, would it extend the life of my compressor. We are also just about done having a whole home generator installed and thought this kit would make it that much easier on the generator, making that last even longer as well. Would love to get your thoughts on this and will subscribe to your channel as I just recently came across your video.
If you take the cover off the condenser, look at the wiring schematic on the inside. It will usually show a 3 wire hard start kit connections with dotted lines. The manufacturers know they work but don’t provide them
if mini split system cannot use these hard start kit, how about the latest technology with 2-stage or variable speed newer AC systems, neither of they can use these kit ?
What is the life expectancy of these hard start kits. Especially the two wire one, I hear it doesnt have a true relay it uses something else instead. I really appreciate your videos recently replaced both the capacitor and contactor muself saving at least a $1000 in labor. I have a 2008 unit. Any additional info would be appreciated . 2 wire vs 3? thanks
I have a 2014 Goodman DSXC160241 split system. So now ten years old. What is best practice? A Hard start kit on this or soft-start kit? Want it to last. book says it has a Two-Stage Copeland® UltraTech™ scroll compressor. Is hard start okay to install on two stage compressors?
Hey Dave, Just wanted to say I love your videos. Their clear and easy to understand. Quick question, when you’re deenergizing the capacitor do you use the screwdriver to touch the tabs with each other or each tab to a metal portion of the unit?
No it’s just used to short each tab to the other, and that in itself will discharge the capacitor. Usually they discharge by themselves but it’s a good practice. I have yet to be popped by one and I didn’t do this method for a long time. Cheers
Does the spp6 capacitor fit most home units. Mine is a 2.5 or 3 ton unit. It has r22 in it and was installed in 1999. It starts fine now but this can only help extend it. Thanks
Another great video! God Bless!! By the way Dave. I like tha r410a by the window. Dave, any hvac troubleshooting book would you recommend. Appreciate!!
if the compressor starts fine without a hard start kit, i don't see the value in adding one. the hart start actually increases current through the start winding during startup but shortens duration - a meter doesn't pick that up and shows lower current because it is not fast enough to pick up the inrush current when a hard start is installed. you mentioned that. For every action force, there is an equal opposing reaction force - while a hard start shortens startup time, it may be harder on the start winding due to the back-force and higher momentary current. in short, if the compressor doesn't start reliably or it is a recip on a txv - hard start has value. otherwise not really. if a compressor previously started b4 but now needs a hard start, it is dying.
What about a newer system? Can I put a hard start kit on a new system like 410a system? Also, what kind of ac condenser that I can't use a hard start kit. And what kind of condenser like brand name that I can't use a hard start kit?
I had a service all this week. They added refrigerant and fixed some control wiring issues. They put the meter on the compressor and said the starting amps were high and suggested a hard start upgrade, It was going to be a bit over $300 and I declined for the time being. Now I know how to do it myself if the need comes up, and wonder how they charge $300+ for a $12 item and a handful of labor minutes.
I had the same question when the AC tech wanted to charge over $250 for a ~$25 capacitor and $99 for the service call. I watched him change the first capacitor (under warranty) that took all of five minutes and said no thank you for the 2d one. I ordered two capacitors and changed the one myself. AC techs responded their charges cover overhead and their business.
@@edorofish Most folks in this channel don't have the faintest idea of how much it cost to operate a business. You have rental of business place; insurance. advertising, truck maintenance, cost of stock supply, license, etc. etc.
@@bobboscarato1313 Bla bla. It doesn't justify price gouging though. The HVAC industry is one of the most corrupt on the planet. I don't know how you guys sleep at night.
@@bobboscarato1313 I can understand a service charge but to markup an item up 1000% is absurd. Hell I gladly pay double the cost for some parts but some of the parts gouging is ridiculous.
@@edorofish A normal mark-up on parts is 40%.- Some parts may require a 50% mark-up due to shipping and handling charges. A 1000% is armed robbery and they should be reported to the BBB or some other authority
The two wire one your holding is not a relay it has a PTCR device that is a resistor that starts out with low resistance then as current flows it goes to a high resistance with heat. When it starts up the big 150-200 MFD cap gives extra boost out of phase giving the motor extra kick to start up the resistance rises rapidly the cap is out of circuit the regular cap stays in circuit it keeps it running. The 2nd one you have a link "PartsBroz" a Chinese Clone of CPS products 5-2-1 made in Florida. Amazon has a lot of cheap Chinese copies of 5-2-1 the problem with these is if it fails and shorts closed now your compressor has 200 MFD cap as a run cap instead of typical 35-45 mfd. Your compressor will eventually fail due from much larger cap. Most OEM's use the CPS Products 5-2-1 kit cost is about $55 for larger 4-5 ton model. I would not suggest any of those Amazon Chinese kits they are junk.
Will the failure of a hard or soft start kit causes the compressor from starting? If it acts only as an assistant, then the compressor should be able to start from its run capacitor after its failure. Is this true?
I was outside pulling weeds when my ac started up and it sounded like my ex-wife screaming....I remember this video and decided to slap on a hard start kit...now I don't here her anymore but a nice humming sounds!
Hey very good video i have a 5 ton r22 unit it has 3 capacitor 1=80mf and 2=60mf which one does i connect the hard start to and the capacitor only has 2 connections and its not written if its common or hermneed your help
Whats difference between the two wire vs three wire kit. If it works exactly the same why would we buy the three wire hard kit. It cost more money than the 2 wire kit
@@diyhvacguy The relay with terminals marked with 5-2-1 is a potential relay. The back EMF that is generated when the compressor is running creates a magnetic field through terminals 5 and 2 which act as a magnet to open the contacts between terminals 1 and 2 to remove the capacitor out of the circuit. If the capacitor isn't taken out, the compressor will draw more current through the start winding and may short out the start winding. To check a potential relay you need to check both the coil, terminals 5 and 2, and the switch, terminals 1 and 2. The switch is normally closed so you should get a low resistance reading of 0 ohm or 0.1 ohm. If the meter reads OL for the switch, the switch is stuck in the open position and the potential relay is bad. The coil should also have a resistance reading but it will be much higher resistance than the switch. If the coil reading is OL, the potential relay is bad.
My compressor stops working when the unit is under direct sunlight and running for prolong periods (fan stays on and cap is good). I have to shut the system off for 5-10 mins and turn it back on and it runs well after. Will this give it some extra life?
No capacitor stays charged when the system is off....they bleed down the charge after awhile. Electrons move at the speed of light ( 186,000 miles per second ) doesn't take very long to charge something moving that quick.
When you install a soft or hard start kit make sure you tell owner or manager that they are on borrowed time as this is not a permanent solution and they should plan for a replacement! Make sure they sign your copies as well. Save a headache or two.
Hardstart kit does not reduce the peak startup surge current. Hardstart kit does reduce the startup surge time period. (from about 0.40 secs to about 0.25 secs) The 10 amp lower reading on clamp on meter is due to meter requiring about 0.4 to 0.5 seconds of surge current time period to average. The hardstart kit reduced startup time period does not give the meter enough averaging time so meter reads a lower than actual peak current. Hardstart kit increases startup period torque of compressor motor by providing a closer to 90 deg current phase shift relative to Run winding for start (auxiliary) winding of single-phase induction motor.
Awesome thank you very much for the video, I have been waiting for this one. I have an older R22 system that I have replaced many components in the past couple years. I feel like its getting to its end of life. Maybe this hard start kit will extend my aging system. My furnace blower motor has a capacitor, could I install this or something similar to it? By the way Your Amazon shop link isn't working....
OMG I paid $400 to have one of these installed and that was with the maintenance plan discount. Not gonna tell ya what they quoted to 'retape' by ductwork............
My ignorance has cost me nearly 500.00 in the past for a capacitor replacement and a hard start kit installment. I now test and replace my own caps, solid state fuses, breaker box switches, install a wifi smart thermostat and test the entire HVAC system thanx to people like these guys. They have definitely saved me hundreds, if not thousands of dollars as a homeowner, these systems seem to break down at the worst time possible, and I feel empowered having this type of knowledge. THANK YOU FROM CALIFORNIA. YOU GUYS ROCK
I went to trade school in the early 1990s. I got my EPA Certification Type 3, and I tested GAMA certification. I was employed as the in-plant HVAC service/maintenance technician. I was employed at total 30 years. I've been away for a few years, since retired. It is helpful for me to get updates from y/all (yinz).
What wi fi thermostat did you go with? Thanks in advance
I was quoted by an HVAC technician to install a pair of these today... for over 800 dollars. Yeah, I think I'll give this a go myself.
Great video!
My goodness. Im a registered nurse for a prof. Your videos makes me wanna learn and become an HVAC technician. But just do it for leisure in helping friends and family so they don’t get taken for a ride by a crooked tech. Keep them videos coming. ❤❤❤❤
Another RN here , been thinking the same for the last year haha.
Yes sir right on the money too many crooks but we hope there are still good tech’s out there
Teacher (female) here on a low salary, so I have been fixing my own. Esp. since COVID. I found out how to replace a capacitor. After three years, it is down again, so put one of these hard starter kits (took off my other nonworking unit) and it is working so far. I am going to order another capacitor in the mean time. Just having trouble finding the right size. They are sold out in all places I have looked.
Yes. Appreciate. On my first solo compressor replacement, I actually read manufacturer paperwork. This was for 2 ton Goodman heat pump. Manufacturer states that hard start should be installed at time of install if line set is over a certain length- I believe it was about 80 foot or more. I may be off a few feet.
Have 240 of these units at apt complex, running 24/7 in Deep South. I now install on any a/c maintenance call for 2nd and 3rd floor Apts, along with any on ground level that are struggling- pulling high amp.
We are in record setting heat wave here and this summer, we have lost much less compressors then any summer before now. I’ve been on property 10 years now.
Thankfully, new management listened and willing to purchase, so we can install. 👍
Good stuff man.
I recently replaced the hard start kit in my 8 year old heat pump with the soft start you showed. It used to start with a bang that was loud enough to make you jump but now the fan starts with a relay click, then 3 seconds later the compressor starts. This is so much nicer especially since the unit sits next to the head side of my bed just outside the bedroom wall.
If it had a factory hard start, you better replace it with a factory hard start. You need to have the exact cut in and cut out voltage potential relay matched for the compressor. Look up potential relays and see the dozens and dozens of different cut in and cut out voltage they come in..
they wanted 150.00 to install i did it myself and the videos help for the low/low price of 12.53 and time 30 ins at the most no brainer
Great video. I will keep it in mind because I have an 18 year old R22 Goodman AC 2.5 ton. It still seems to run fine, so I will stick to the old rule : "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." When it breaks I will try your advice.
It ALWAYS breaks on the hottest day of summer :) haha
i have used a 5-2-1 compressor saver(3wire)for 20 years and feel they are an absolute necessity!!! my only advice is to make sure you buy the right one for the correct tonnage of your unit, very important! thanks for the video 🤠
Are there any downsides to a 5-2-1 compressor saver that could damage an otherwise normally working compressor?
I read something about if the potential relay going bad and keeping the start capacitor in the circuit and I would have just ruined my compressor. Would love to see a video on this!
@jamestran3768 that typically happens when the potential relay is installed incorrectly.
Thank you for producing this video. It was very helpful. This week I had my HVAC tech tell me during a spring HVAC check that I should seriously consider installing a hard start kit on my 5 year old heat pump system. They quoted almost $900 installed. I said no as I felt it could be snake oil and would be helping the HVAC company more than me. After watching several videos on the subject, including this one, I learned it probably isn’t a bad idea to have one, but I can do it myself for probably $50. So yes, the HVAC was company is doing very well peddling these to unsuspecting customers.
Congratulations on creating and maintaining an outstanding channel! Great information, along with a crisp and concise delivery. Your channel is a great example of what TH-cam is all about, taking the mystery out of everyday repairs and building self-confidence in the average home fixer. Thank you.
Thanks! I really appreciate that!
I just got quoted over $500 for a 5-2-1 kit. I think based on this video I can tackle this for a fraction of the price.
@The DIY HVAC Guy, please watch the video from HVAC school where the instructor talks about the myths behind the hard start kit and how it actually could be harming your condenser. They say that the high inrush current still is very high and is just happening so quick that multimeters are not measuring it, and instead showing false readings that are low.
I have seen it, and I mention that in the video. You must’ve not watched the whole thing. These things have been around for a long time, I’ve seen them do more good than bad, but I’m also a big proponent of the soft start. One is much cheaper obviously but I think both have their advantages and disadvantages. On an upcoming video I’ll talk about both options. Thanks for the feedback. Dave
You need a high impedance meter to have true readings. This type of meters are quite expensive.
There's a genius in every crowd 😂
Exactly, you need to match the cut in and cut out voltage of the potential relay for the compressor. One size fits all harms the compressor.
best hvac channel... ! so much detail.!
Thanks for explaining the difference dude. Very hard to find info stating if one is better and you showed they’re the same. I bought both types of kits and went with the two prong for simplicity.
Hard starts are good for residential equipment definitely agree 👏🏽👏🏽! As a hvac tech
Thanks from Joel p.from chicgo,I got my booster my unit steel from r22,sorry I'm 74 money is short from de s.s,good blessed you and your family.
I’m going to install a soft start on my 3.5 condenser
Just trying to help a hard start kit is for a compressor that starts under load like a unit with a non bleed expansion valve. That’s the capacitor with relay hard start kit. The hard start kit does not require 5 minute cooldown for proper operation. Start assist is the two wire kit requires 5 minute cooldown to work properly.
Hi , I already installed a 5-2-1 hard start kit ( with relay ) in my 2 old lennox a/c units. I hope to get a few more years out of them ! Thanks. I'm not waiting for the compressors to fail.
I wish you lived in FL and would install mine
Soft starters are much more effective at extending the life of your compressor than hard starters due to the simple fact that they gradually ramp up the current needed to start the compressor in 4 steps rather than one giant push that hard starters do. Less current, less torque, less stress on internal moving parts and windings. Better for longevity and works beautifully with generator or solar inverter power. More $$ though.
BUT, if the soft start kit has issue then it will send too low of volt or amps and cause problems or damage the compressor.
Soft start kits for other non-A/C were sold for years that after a while caused issues and pulled from the market. (I know I lost a washer and dryer due to them and had to replace the boards).
So it's a gamble, not picking on the soft start kit for A/C and they are well made but everything has + and - to watch out for.
May all of y'alls A/C units last forever. I am on year 23 for mine.
Just install both a soft start and hard start kit lol
@@Lumpia_In_Texas I need a Medium Start Kit...
@@happyyardservice29142:36 2:39
@@jkmarshall3553 That's funny 😂😅
Good Info! - I'm very interested in your Hard Start vs. Soft Start direct comparison, as I'm currently debating which option is right for my AC unit.
That video should come out Friday and will be updated on the endscreen. My apologies
$11 vs $320 (soft start)! It would take many years to pay back the soft start.
The hard start kit will help with the dimming lights on start, correct?
I know you’ve mentioned it in other videos but for those that aren’t aware, these can also be useful if you ever have to run your AC on a generator. The high amp load at startup will trip the breaker on most generators but a hard start kit will lower it just enough that this shouldn’t happen.
You'd want a soft start kit aka easy start kit instead if you'll be using any auxiliary energy source such as generators or solar.
@@cilopez155 soft start kits are definitely better but you can absolutely use a hard start kit for use with a generator if you’re trying to stay within a budget. I don’t have any experience on solar power or battery backups so I can’t say for sure if they’d work with a hard start kit.
Hard starts don't lower inrush, they just apply power to a second winding for them to start quicker.
I stated that in the video
Great video Really appreciate the time you took to put this out there.
Great clip . Crystal clear
Thanks for sharing
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I have a rheem from 78 changed out everything called a tech didnt do anything but said i needed a new system put the hard start on she:s running good js
I would suggest that if you want to buy a hard start kit that you buy one without the built-in relay...it is not a relay, it is a thermistor. It failed on me after several months. I would recommend a kit with a separate relay to the capacitor. It is my understanding that they are a lot more reliable. I am going off my own experience. I would appreciate the experts commenting on my review. thanks
Thanks for posting this. I am confused though. To my knowledge, the hard start kit consists of a capacitor and some kind of relay to bridge it out of the circuit after start up. If I understand correctly, the theory of operation is that the capacitor charges up, stores a charge, then releases it on the first part of start up before being taken out of the compressor circuit allowing it to recharge. In that case, all capacitors used for hard start have to be charged up (and formed) over at least one cycle before they can be ready to use. In your video, you are taking the current draw off the first start up where the capacitor is not yet charged by the target system. I am thinking that we would need to run the system for a few cycles before using the AMP probe to see the real current draw, no?
I just swapped out the made in Mexico capacitor on my Lennox with a Titan HD capacitor Made in USA.
A hardstart kit installed where not justified can actually damage compressor. Hardstart kit shortens startup period by increasing the startup torque of motor by using a larger value start winding series capacitor which gets current AC phase between run and start windings closer to 90 degrees phase shift which produces the peak torque (this is what proper Run capacitor value does during run mode).
If hardstart kit does not reduce the peak startup current but does reduce startup time to less than about 0.2 seconds, it can subject compressor to excessive mechanical stress that may damage compressor or motor shaft. Going from zero to 3500 rpms in less than 0.2 secs can be mechanically stressful.
A hardstart kit is justified if there is too much AC voltage slump during startup due to low grid AC voltage, small wire gauge, or extra-long wire run from electrical breaker panel. This shows up as extended startup time, >0.5 secs. If startup is so sluggish it last about 1 second or longer it usually trips the compressor internal overcurrent protection Kixon breaker. The internal compressor breaker has a limited number of breaks before its contacts are damaged, so you want to avoid if possible.
RLA is compressor rated full load Run amperage. Typical compressor run current will be 60% to 65% of RLA rating. Run current will increase as outside ambient temp rises with compressor current approaching RLA level at about 130 degs F ambient temp (which is rarely seen). It correlates to high side refrigerant pressure on compressor discharge port.
Softstarter is a combination hardstart capacitor, to increase motor torque, and a startup voltage ramp up via triac or dual SCR 'dimmer' circuit to gradually ramp up AC voltage input. The first five training startups search for optimum voltage ramp up for given compressor setup. Startup time of about 0.5 sec is optimum.
❤❤❤ great videos... Love your to the point explanations. Thank you a million
My 15 seer 2 ton Goodman has a PTC thermistor to help it start. I’m considering adding a 3 wire hard to start kit. The question is should I remove the PTC Thermistor?
What will happen to the compressor if the relay in the kit fails and the added starting cap stays in the circuit?
THANKS.
Excellent video
Thanks for doing this, I’ve been waiting for this. I have a small 6k btu window unit that I want to run off a 2kw generator that I run in eco mode. Problem is the generator does not kick into regular mode quickly enough to handle the compressor starting up. When compressor is running the eco mode works no problem until the compressor needs to turn on again.
My question is do I need a hard start kit or a soft start kit? Hard start kits seem to be much cheaper
Thanks for any comments.
Could you do a video on furnaces and thermostats to run fan only just to circulate air through the house with no heat
Sure I’ll see what I can do!
@@diyhvacguy just last night took my thermastat off and pulled out the wires from the small hole and found a green one unconnected. To think the previous home owner missed out on some glorious air circulation for 20 years.
It’s great and simple 🎉
Thank you. Great information
At the end you refer to a video on what a soft start kit is; however, the video prompt that appears goes to another video instead.
Yes my apologies that video comes out Friday, and then the endscreen will be updated. stay tuned for that one! Cheers
The hard start kits are way less expensive ($15 -$25) than the soft start ones (around $225) I priced. Is the soft start that much better? Thank you for your advice.
Stay tuned for the next video. It should be out tomorrow 👍🏼
@@diyhvacguy OK, I watched the Soft Start vid and I believe that since my compressor is over 20 years old that the hard start is the way I will go since it should add a few more years to an aged system. My question is are the two HS kits you have the links too universal across all models? I know you have to be specific when replacing the run capacitor, but I don't see that mentioned in the HS descriptions. Thank you for your help.
Which is better to install on AC units: 2-wire or 3-wire units as preventative start cap??
What about installing a hard start on new system? To get the most life out of your compressor?
Yea I installed one right out of the gate on my old system. I recently upgraded to an inverter heat pump that has a built in soft start though. Different device for a different application. I can now run my ac or heat pump with a generator :)
@@diyhvacguy Would the two wire hard start kit be fine on a 1 year old goodman r410a unit with indoor txv? I was getting hard starts it would take 3 minutes for compressor to start. I read that goodman with indoor txv should have one installed when bringing unit into service.
Thank you for the informative video! 👍👍
Which hard start do you prefer? Thks
I have heard about soft start kits for a little while now and have wondered if I should invest in one. I have a Heil 2 ton compressor and when it starts up, it makes the typical starting noise and I've been wondering if I did install one, would it extend the life of my compressor. We are also just about done having a whole home generator installed and thought this kit would make it that much easier on the generator, making that last even longer as well. Would love to get your thoughts on this and will subscribe to your channel as I just recently came across your video.
If you take the cover off the condenser, look at the wiring schematic on the inside. It will usually show a 3 wire hard start kit connections with dotted lines. The manufacturers know they work but don’t provide them
I have 10 rental units with outdoor AC units, all running fine. Should I install a 2-wire kit in each one as a preventative measure?? Thanks
if mini split system cannot use these hard start kit, how about the latest technology with 2-stage or variable speed newer AC systems, neither of they can use these kit ?
What is the life expectancy of these hard start kits. Especially the two wire one, I hear it doesnt have a true relay it uses something else instead. I really appreciate your videos recently replaced both the capacitor and contactor muself saving at least a $1000 in labor. I have a 2008 unit. Any additional info would be appreciated . 2 wire vs 3? thanks
Great video!
I have a 2014 Goodman DSXC160241 split system. So now ten years old. What is best practice? A Hard start kit on this or soft-start kit? Want it to last.
book says it has a Two-Stage Copeland® UltraTech™ scroll compressor. Is hard start okay to install on two stage compressors?
Hey Dave,
Just wanted to say I love your videos. Their clear and easy to understand.
Quick question, when you’re deenergizing the capacitor do you use the screwdriver to touch the tabs with each other or each tab to a metal portion of the unit?
No it’s just used to short each tab to the other, and that in itself will discharge the capacitor. Usually they discharge by themselves but it’s a good practice. I have yet to be popped by one and I didn’t do this method for a long time. Cheers
Is it Better to install an SOFT START KIT by Micro Air ❓❓❓
understand 3 wire and 2 wire are exact same. The 2 wire has relay built in.
My AC guy of 32 years in the business installed a condenser fan rated for CAP10 and left in my cap rated at 5. What do you think?
I would put the 10 in. My unit had cap 7.5 uf but found it only needs 5uf I will be changing capacitor when it arrives tomorrow.
@@NO-END TKS
Does the spp6 capacitor fit most home units. Mine is a 2.5 or 3 ton unit. It has r22 in it and was installed in 1999. It starts fine now but this can only help extend it. Thanks
Another great video! God Bless!! By the way Dave. I like tha r410a by the window. Dave, any hvac troubleshooting book would you recommend. Appreciate!!
this one is great for troubleshooting refrigerant issues. But an all around troubleshooting guide I’m not sure on that one.
amzn.to/3MMXgUb
I installed a hard start kit on a refrigerator and save it.
Exelente explanation boss
Thank you sir!
My Mini-split does not have a variable compressor. It's a 13 year old Air Works with 410A.
if the compressor starts fine without a hard start kit, i don't see the value in adding one.
the hart start actually increases current through the start winding during startup but shortens duration - a meter doesn't pick that up and shows lower current because it is not fast enough to pick up the inrush current when a hard start is installed. you mentioned that.
For every action force, there is an equal opposing reaction force - while a hard start shortens startup time, it may be harder on the start winding due to the back-force and higher momentary current.
in short, if the compressor doesn't start reliably or it is a recip on a txv - hard start has value.
otherwise not really.
if a compressor previously started b4 but now needs a hard start, it is dying.
What about a newer system? Can I put a hard start kit on a new system like 410a system?
Also, what kind of ac condenser that I can't use a hard start kit. And what kind of condenser like brand name that I can't use a hard start kit?
I didn't see anything about a soft start kit in the video that you put up on the screen (How to check superheat & subcooling on an HVAC system).
It will be out in a couple days! Check back for that one. My apologies
@@diyhvacguy no problem, thanks for the answer.
I had a service all this week. They added refrigerant and fixed some control wiring issues. They put the meter on the compressor and said the starting amps were high and suggested a hard start upgrade, It was going to be a bit over $300 and I declined for the time being. Now I know how to do it myself if the need comes up, and wonder how they charge $300+ for a $12 item and a handful of labor minutes.
I had the same question when the AC tech wanted to charge over $250 for a ~$25 capacitor and $99 for the service call. I watched him change the first capacitor (under warranty) that took all of five minutes and said no thank you for the 2d one. I ordered two capacitors and changed the one myself. AC techs responded their charges cover overhead and their business.
@@edorofish Most folks in this channel don't have the faintest idea of how much it cost to operate a business. You have rental of business place; insurance. advertising, truck maintenance, cost of stock supply, license, etc. etc.
@@bobboscarato1313 Bla bla. It doesn't justify price gouging though. The HVAC industry is one of the most corrupt on the planet. I don't know how you guys sleep at night.
@@bobboscarato1313 I can understand a service charge but to markup an item up 1000% is absurd. Hell I gladly pay double the cost for some parts but some of the parts gouging is ridiculous.
@@edorofish A normal mark-up on parts is 40%.- Some parts may require a 50% mark-up due to shipping and handling charges. A 1000% is armed robbery and they should be reported to the BBB or some other authority
Should I install one of these on a heat pump?
Yes. You run it all year long for cooling and heat. You would benefit from it.
This replacement brings any savings on the energy consumption?
Great Video. Thank you for sharing
So why not simply install a larger Cap in the first place?
Hey great topic excellent tutorial.
Im wondering if a hard start or soft start would work or improve a microwave oven. Just a thought.
Not sure on that one!
What are the tones on compresor for this hard start ?
2 to 5 ?
Does this void a warranty? A certified company installed one…. Perhaps I can give them a call and ask
The two wire one your holding is not a relay it has a PTCR device that is a resistor that starts out with low resistance then as current flows it goes to a high resistance with heat. When it starts up the big 150-200 MFD cap gives extra boost out of phase giving the motor extra kick to start up the resistance rises rapidly the cap is out of circuit the regular cap stays in circuit it keeps it running. The 2nd one you have a link "PartsBroz" a Chinese Clone of CPS products 5-2-1 made in Florida. Amazon has a lot of cheap Chinese copies of 5-2-1 the problem with these is if it fails and shorts closed now your compressor has 200 MFD cap as a run cap instead of typical 35-45 mfd. Your compressor will eventually fail due from much larger cap. Most OEM's use the CPS Products 5-2-1 kit cost is about $55 for larger 4-5 ton model. I would not suggest any of those Amazon Chinese kits they are junk.
Wouldn't the hard start kit help the run capacitor to last much longer?
Would putting a hard start capacitor make the start sound lessen? My heat pump is pretty quiet except when it turns on. Looking for answers.
Will the failure of a hard or soft start kit causes the compressor from starting? If it acts only as an assistant, then the compressor should be able to start from its run capacitor after its failure. Is this true?
I was outside pulling weeds when my ac started up and it sounded like my ex-wife screaming....I remember this video and decided to slap on a hard start kit...now I don't here her anymore but a nice humming sounds!
Nice!!
Hey very good video i have a 5 ton r22 unit it has 3 capacitor 1=80mf and 2=60mf which one does i connect the hard start to and the capacitor only has 2 connections and its not written if its common or hermneed your help
Was the video at the end correct? It looked liked the super heat sub cooling instead of easy start.
No the video on soft starts should post Friday and then the endscreen will be updated 👍🏼
I actually was able to find a source for a Factory Hard Start for my old YORK system and it is over $200 !!! I didn't buy it of course, too expensive.
Does a hard start kit void the factory warranty, like a soft start kit does?
Hard start kit = compressor saver kit?
Anything about softstart kit?
NICELY DONE
Hey Dave, will the two wire hard start kit in your Amazon Link work with a 70/5uf +6% CBB65B 440VAC Dual Run Capacitor ??
It should I used it on 2.5 Ton r410a unit until I upgraded to Amrad TES5. it was still working when i swapped it.
Whats difference between the two wire vs three wire kit. If it works exactly the same why would we buy the three wire hard kit. It cost more money than the 2 wire kit
Supposedly the 5-2-1 that has three wire connections lasts longer but I can’t really speak to that myself.
@@diyhvacguy if your not sure then the 2 wire should be better value. If it works the same why pay more 😂
@@diyhvacguy the 3 wire last longer base on my experience in the past 14 years.
@@diyhvacguy The relay with terminals marked with 5-2-1 is a potential relay. The back EMF that is generated when the compressor is running creates a magnetic field through terminals 5 and 2 which act as a magnet to open the contacts between terminals 1 and 2 to remove the capacitor out of the circuit. If the capacitor isn't taken out, the compressor will draw more current through the start winding and may short out the start winding.
To check a potential relay you need to check both the coil, terminals 5 and 2, and the switch, terminals 1 and 2. The switch is normally closed so you should get a low resistance reading of 0 ohm or 0.1 ohm. If the meter reads OL for the switch, the switch is stuck in the open position and the potential relay is bad. The coil should also have a resistance reading but it will be much higher resistance than the switch. If the coil reading is OL, the potential relay is bad.
my lennox 5 ton, which hard start kit best for my AC , please give me some suggestion good brand and part number for
Hi, would installing this ourselves void the manufacturer compressor warranty or other warranty?
My compressor stops working when the unit is under direct sunlight and running for prolong periods (fan stays on and cap is good). I have to shut the system off for 5-10 mins and turn it back on and it runs well after. Will this give it some extra life?
How were those Capacitors charged when the power is off?..
Similar to a battery, when the unit runs it continues to charge the capacitor.
Busted. Yes, what he needs to do is apply power and wait a few seconds. Then trigger it by the thermostat wires.
No capacitor stays charged when the system is off....they bleed down the charge after awhile. Electrons move at the speed of light ( 186,000 miles per second ) doesn't take very long to charge something moving that quick.
When you install a soft or hard start kit make sure you tell owner or manager that they are on borrowed time as this is not a permanent solution and they should plan for a replacement! Make sure they sign your copies as well. Save a headache or two.
Borrow time over 1 decade - 20 years is good enough lol. Its not like its a few short years.
I installed a hard start capacitor on my home a/c unit 20 years ago because it wouldn't start. Still going...
@@ProleDaddy Untrue; your unit is very inefficient and uses lots of electricity! You got caught!
@@JohnT2088 You must have very low electric rates in your area.
@@ProleDaddy Liar!
Hardstart kit does not reduce the peak startup surge current. Hardstart kit does reduce the startup surge time period. (from about 0.40 secs to about 0.25 secs)
The 10 amp lower reading on clamp on meter is due to meter requiring about 0.4 to 0.5 seconds of surge current time period to average. The hardstart kit reduced startup time period does not give the meter enough averaging time so meter reads a lower than actual peak current.
Hardstart kit increases startup period torque of compressor motor by providing a closer to 90 deg current phase shift relative to Run winding for start (auxiliary) winding of single-phase induction motor.
Awesome thank you very much for the video, I have been waiting for this one. I have an older R22 system that I have replaced many components in the past couple years. I feel like its getting to its end of life. Maybe this hard start kit will extend my aging system. My furnace blower motor has a capacitor, could I install this or something similar to it? By the way Your Amazon shop link isn't working....
Thanks I got that fixed.
R407C replaces R22 and is very inexpensive. I use it my own system at home going on 7 years.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge blessing and more blessings to you and your family in Jesus name Amen 🙏🙏❤️ 🙏
Can these be used for the air handler capacitor?
OMG I paid $400 to have one of these installed and that was with the maintenance plan discount. Not gonna tell ya what they quoted to 'retape' by ductwork............
what about a soft start kit
That video will post tomorrow evening 👍🏼
mines is 2006 temsptar compressor start fine living in NJ. do i need one to last longer life of compressor?
How can I tell my unit is variable or single stages