What Is an AC Hard Start Kit? 7 Benefits of Installing One

What Is an AC Hard Start Kit?

A hard start kit is a piece of electrical equipment intended to facilitate the smooth starting of appliances that require a high starting current. This kit gives the appliance an extra power boost, enabling it to start up even in environments with low voltage. Hard start kits are commonly found in appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and freezers.

In the case of ACs specifically, the kit is designed to facilitate the effective and trouble-free startup of air conditioners. The compressor receives an extra power boost from this kit, which enables it to start up successfully even in circumstances where the voltage is low. The two main components that make up the kit are the start capacitor and the potential relay.

Additional components, such as a run capacitor or a time delay relay, may be included in certain AC hard start kits to help guarantee that the compressor motor operates smoothly and effectively.

How an AC Hard Start Kit Works

During the first phase of operation, the compressor requires an increased amount of power, which the start capacitor is designed to provide. When the compressor reaches a certain speed, the potential relay is activated, and it is its job to remove the start capacitor from the circuit so that the compressor may continue operating normally. This prevents the start capacitor from causing any damage to the compressor.

7 Benefits of Installing an AC Hard Start Kit

1. Helps Extend the Working Life of the Compressor

One of the most significant benefits of installing an AC hard start kit is that it extends the life of the compressor. The kit gives the compressor an additional surge of power at startup, which helps reduce the strain placed on it. This also helps prevent damage to the compressor, extending its overall lifespan.

2. Helps Lower the Chance of Electrical Damage

Another advantage of installing an AC hard start kit is that it reduces the risk of harm to electrical components. An air conditioner operating under low-voltage conditions can place a significant load on the electrical system, potentially damaging the wiring and other electrical components. An AC hard start kit gives the system an additional surge of power during startup, lowering the likelihood that the system will sustain electrical damage.

3. Saves Energy

Installing an AC hard start kit is also a way to save electricity. When an air conditioner first starts up, a significant amount of power is needed to get the compressor running properly, which can cause a spike in energy usage. An AC hard start kit gives the compressor an additional surge of power, minimizing the amount of energy required to get the air conditioner started.

4. Facilitates Improved Efficiency

The effectiveness of the air conditioner can also be improved by installing an AC hard start kit. When the compressor starts up without any hiccups and at maximum efficiency, it consumes less energy and performs its function more effectively. This has the potential to reduce monthly energy costs and increase the lifespan of the air conditioner.

5. Reduces Noise

When first turned on, an air conditioner often makes a noticeable amount of noise. Installing an AC hard start kit, however, can help reduce the overall operating noise of the air conditioner. Because the kit supplies the compressor with an additional push of power, the compressor is able to start up more smoothly and quietly.

6. Avoids Circuit Breaker Tripping

An air conditioner operating under low-voltage conditions can trip a circuit breaker, leaving the homeowner’s air conditioner unable to operate as it should — a frustrating experience. By giving the system a greater initial surge of power at startup, an AC hard start kit can help prevent circuit breakers from tripping.

7. Elevates the Level of Comfort

Installing an air conditioner with a hard start kit can make the home more comfortable overall. If the air conditioner starts up without any issues and runs as effectively as possible, it is more likely to maintain a uniformly comfortable temperature throughout the entire house, improving air quality and eliminating hot spots.

Conclusion

An AC hard start kit is an electrical device that facilitates the effective and trouble-free startup of air conditioners. Its main components are a start capacitor and a potential relay. Installing one provides a range of benefits, including extending the life of the compressor, reducing the risk of electrical damage, saving energy, improving efficiency, reducing noise, preventing circuit breaker tripping, and increasing overall comfort.

Homeowners should seriously consider installing an AC hard start kit to help ensure their air conditioner operates successfully and efficiently, particularly during the warm summer months. To install one, call us at (602) 266-5247">(602) 266-5247 or schedule your service here.