SoftStartRV Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner - Quiet, Small

In this review the SoftStartRV Soft Start for RV Air Conditioner is evaluated for RV owners who want reliable AC starts with limited power. The bottom line: this compact, 40% smaller soft start unit is best for campers and motorhomes that need to run rooftop ACs from a small generator or a 30-amp shore power feed, and it reduces loud compressor thumps for quieter nights. Our review finds it especially useful when multiple appliances are in use and when reducing startup current is the single biggest reason to buy.

Key Features

• Compact design: The unit is now 40% smaller so it fits low-profile RV A/C housings where larger starters would not.
• High starting flexibility: Lets a 30-amp shore feed start two A/C units, or lets a small 2200W generator start a single rooftop A/C up to 15,000 BTU.
• Waterproof build: The 100% waterproof enclosure protects electronics from moisture common in RV and marine environments.
• Load sharing: Its soft start technology allows an AC, fridge, microwave and other appliances to start using less surge current so more devices can run from limited power sources.
• Noise reduction: Reduces compressor noise and vibration at startup so the usual loud thump is largely eliminated.
• Support resources: Comes with easy guides, tutorials and free live support from certified technicians for straightforward installation.

Who It's For

The SoftStartRV is aimed at RV owners, campervan builders and motorhome enthusiasts who frequently use small generators or have limited shore power and want to run one or more rooftop AC units without tripping breakers. It also suits anyone tired of loud compressor starts and looking for a quieter HVAC experience.

Those who should look elsewhere include owners who do not need soft start capability because they always use full-service campground hookups with abundant power, or users who require proprietary integration with AC models not designed for add-on soft starters.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact size fits low-profile rooftop units that larger starters cannot.
• Enables starting on a 2200W generator and running up to 36,000 BTU combined load scenarios when managed properly.
• 100% waterproof construction is well suited to outdoor RV conditions.
• Clear instructions and available live support make installation approachable for most owners.

Cons

• While it lowers startup current, actual performance depends on generator and overall load, so very small or older generators may still be marginal.
• Not all HVAC systems require or accept an aftermarket soft start, so compatibility checks are needed before purchase.

Specifications

Product type	RV AC soft start kit
Size reduction	40% smaller to fit low-profile units
Generator compatibility	Works with ~2200W generators
Supported BTU	Up to 15,000 BTU rooftop AC and up to 36,000 BTU scenarios
Water resistance	100% waterproof
Power feed	Starts two ACs on 30-amp, one on 15-amp or small generator
Support	Guides, tutorials and live certified technician support

Our Verdict

The SoftStartRV soft start kit is a practical upgrade for RV owners who need to reduce compressor surge and run ACs from generators or limited shore power. Its smaller footprint and waterproof design add real value, and included support makes installation accessible. For campers wanting quieter starts and better generator compatibility, this is a sensible, cost-effective choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this unit let me run an AC on a small generator?
Yes, the SoftStartRV tech is designed to allow starting from a ~2200W generator for common rooftop AC sizes, including 15,000 BTU units when loads are managed.

Is installation difficult for a non-expert?
Most customers report installation in under 30 minutes using the provided guides and tutorials, and live support is available if needed.

Will it stop the loud compressor thump?
Yes, customers note a significant reduction in startup noise and vibration due to the soft start behavior.