Hard start kit opinions.

[Glennhvac]

Ok before summer gets here, and it can't come soon enough, I am looking for feedback on hard start kits.
I have tried a few of the more popular brands with limited success as far as how long they last. They have eliminated problems for me with that occasional unit that may trip the breaker especially on a short cycle.

I have had a number of these kits blow however. Am I blaming the kits or is there another reason that this might happen? I am sizing them correctly and yes I do check the run cap before even considering a start assist.

I also understand that not all can be used with scroll comps for some reason.
If you have had great luck with a specific brand please let me know.
Thanks

post is a byproduct of txvs and equalizers

[La Air Man]

I use the 5-2-1 and the TO5 kits. We use them on all recip compressors if the indoor has a hard shut off txv. Was recommended by a factory rep not to put them on a scroll unless having problems with it.

[mark beiser]

I've been using the 5-2-1 kits and not had any problems in a few years.
When they first came out, I had a couple of the potential relays fail in situations where the continuous coil voltage was >400v, but I think they have upgraded the relay since then, as I've seen no more failures.

I use one of the Kickstart 2 wire kits for diagnostics, but I stopped installing them because they don't fit in most of the corner access panel units, which have become the norm.

I'd stick to start kits that use a potential relay, and avoid ones that use a PTC or electronic relay.

Note that most potential relays have a side that needs to face up, and may not operate correctly if installed the wrong way.

[Cooked]

Ditto what Mark said....

[timebuilder]

I've been using the 5-2-1 kits and not had any problems in a few years.
When they first came out, I had a couple of the potential relays fail in situations where the continuous coil voltage was >400v, but I think they have upgraded the relay since then, as I've seen no more failures.

I use one of the Kickstart 2 wire kits for diagnostics, but I stopped installing them because they don't fit in most of the corner access panel units, which have become the norm.

I'd stick to start kits that use a potential relay, and avoid ones that use a PTC or electronic relay.

Note that most potential relays have a side that needs to face up, and may not operate correctly if installed the wrong way.

I second this post. 5-2-1, no problems.

[Glennhvac]

That's already 3 for the 5-2-1 and I can't even recall seeing these at a couple of my regular supply places. Have to check the J folks.

[mark beiser]

One thing I've been itching to try out is the Emerson Electronic Smart Starter.
http://www.alcocontrols.com.pl/alco/...ESC__35055.pdf

I find it interesting that it actually reduces the peak starting current.
Conventional start kits only reduce the duration of the peak.

[icemeister]

Here's a great video about hard start kits made by PaysonHVAC:

[Glennhvac]

Here's a great video about hard start kits made by PaysonHVAC:

Well that answered it right away. POS super boost. That's what I thought as I have had enough blow apart

[Cooked]

The old SuperBoost has been around a loooong time. I must've installed a hundred of them back in the 80's and they worked. They are still cheap to buy but I wouldn't risk callback with one. They are great for diagnostics. The 5-2-1 is pretty pricey but your reputation is worth it.

Nice video Icemiester!

[Glennhvac]

Well I am sold on these 5-2-1's now. They are essentially like the good old factory installed old style start kits. Problem is I am not seeing them on my local suppliers sites.

[akelesis]

whats the comparision to this 5-2-1 in canada? i was looking for it at my local suppliers web site and all i found was this.

http://www.uri.com/is-bin/intershop....review/3W2.jpg

is this different? anyone know whats its called here in canada so i can get some of my own and get it on my system to see the difference. thanks for this imformative thread. didnt even know it exsisted. so why does everyone always recommend a hard start? Please explain?

[chuckcrj]

I see they already have you convinced on the 5-2-1. They don't know what they are talking about.

























Just kidding. In my opinion there is only one hard start kit, the 5 2 1.