What is a soft starter? Well, RVs come equipped with various gadgets that make it easy to feel comfortable using your rig. The problem, however, is that all of these devices require a lot of power.
If you’re not careful, these power-hungry electronics can overload the power source. Depending on the source, this can cause enormous damage.
Luckily, one product, SoftStartUp, makes it easier for RV owners to enjoy their RVs while worrying less about how much electricity they use. Let’s take a closer look at this almost magical RV accessory.
What is SoftStartUp?
SoftStartUp is an electronic device that protects an RV from dangerous power surges and minimizes power consumption when the air conditioning is turned on. The SoftStartUp is an external device that is connected to the power source.
You can power your RV using a generator, a power socket at a campsite, or a 15 amp outlet at home. And it only takes seconds to install and use this device.
How does the SoftStartUp work?
The SoftStartUp plugs directly into a power source, and then you plug your RV’s power cord into the SoftStartUp. The device monitors any surge currents that may occur in your device, typically from an air conditioner, refrigerator or microwave.
The SoftStartup modulates the electrical current and reduces the power required to operate these devices. This can reduce your energy needs and give you more flexibility in where and how you use your RV.
SoftStartUp also offers an app for mobile devices. The app uses Bluetooth technologies to relay important electrical information for your rig.
You can monitor exactly how much electricity you use and when. This can be useful if you want to calculate exactly how much energy each device in your facility is using.
Why do you need a soft start in your RV?
Depending on how you use your RV, SoftStartUp can be essential. By reducing the energy demands of your power-hungry devices, you can run more devices when you are dealing with limited power.
Generally, if you have a 50 amp service, you don’t have to worry about tripping the circuit breaker or managing the power supply. However, when plugged into a generator or household outlet, power management is essential to avoid damage.
With a soft starter, you can enjoy the benefits of these devices without worrying about overloading the power source.
How much does SoftStartUp cost?
Unfortunately, like many premium products that deliver top-notch results, it doesn’t come cheap. SoftStartUp’s regular price is $899. However, it’s not uncommon to see these listed for $599.
The company is so behind their product that they offer a 90-day love-it-or-return policy. If you don’t love it, you’ll get a full refund.
In addition to the SoftStartUp device, you will receive a 15 ampere adapter to connect your motorhome to a household socket. You also get a 90-day trial, a 2-year warranty, and free shipping on US and Canada orders.
Advantages of a SoftStartUp
If you’re not sure if SoftStartUp is right for you, consider some of the benefits SoftStartUp can offer you and your RV.
These might convince you to make a SoftStartUp your next RV accessory purchase.
Surge protection from the source
You should always use a surge protector when connecting your RV to a power source. A power surge due to grid problems or lightning can occur at any time and seriously damage an RV.
It can ruin sensitive electronics in air conditioners, refrigerators, and many other electronic devices in your RV.
Luckily, SoftStartUp offers surge protection up to 2100 joules. This is more than enough protection for sensitive equipment from an unexpected surge.
Since SoftStartUp constantly monitors the power flow to your rig, you can rest assured that with this device you are constantly protected from dangerous power surges.
Surge management of RV
SoftStartUp not only manages the electricity that goes into your RV, but also the electricity that flows out of your RV. This avoids circuit breakers constantly tripping when turning equipment on and off.
While it doesn’t turn a connection into an unlimited source of energy, it can help avoid most instances where you’d normally use a little too much energy.
It may happen that safety functions on circuit breakers do not trip and you overload the power source. The SoftStartUp provides an extra layer of security between your RV and the power source to prevent a potentially dangerous event.
Keep in mind: Looking for the best RV surge protector? Click the link to see the best options!
Easy to install
Don’t have a degree in electrical engineering? No problem! You don’t need one to install SoftStartUp and enjoy its benefits. When they say this device is plug and play, they mean it.
To install the SoftStartUp, you only have to connect it to the power source. Depending on the source, this may require a compatible adapter.
However, simply connect your motorhome to the SoftStartUp and then connect the unit to the power source and you are good to go.
SoftStartUp compared to SoftStartRV
SoftStartUp and SoftStartRV are two similar products but have different benefits. SoftStartUp is a plug and play device that protects against power surges and manages them from high amperage devices used in an RV.
Unfortunately, SoftStartUp does nothing for those who want to use onboard generators or a battery bank to power their devices. For these cases, the SoftStartRV is the better option.
The SoftStartRV only offers soft start functions for the air conditioning system. The initial current draw of air conditioners can overload some power sources, especially when running multiple air conditioners.
This device can make it easier to run a rig on batteries or a generator. However, it does not provide surge protection and only reduces the power consumption of air conditioners and no other devices.
Both devices have their advantages and disadvantages. Which one is right for you and your RV depends on how you intend to use your rig. Since these are large investments, take the time to fully evaluate your needs before purchasing any of these devices.
How do you install a SoftStartUp on your mobile home?
As mentioned earlier, installing a SoftStartUp is incredibly easy. If you’re familiar with using a surge protector for your RV, the process is identical.
Because SoftStartUp provides surge protection, it replaces the need for your other surge protector. You used a surge protector with your RV, right?
All you have to do is connect the SoftStartUp to the power source to test the connection. If everything is working properly, unplug the SoftStartUp from the power source, connect your RV’s power cord to your rig and plug it into the SoftStartUp.
You can then connect the SoftStartUp to the power source and the device will start working. Rest assured your RV will require less power to run high amperage appliances and be protected from power surges.
Keep in mind: Before you set off, you should make sure your RV is ready to go. If you want to keep your motorhome connected at home, here’s how to do it!
Is a SoftStartUp worth it?
A SoftStartUp can be worthwhile for many people, but it depends on the situation. If you spend most of your time at campsites that may not have enough power for your rig, this is an excellent solution.
However, if you have invested in an on-board generator or a large battery bank, a SoftStartUp will not do you much good. Make sure you evaluate how you intend to use your rig to ensure you’re getting the best rig for the job.
Do you think SoftStartUp will work for you?