Has anyone installed one of these just for the compressor benefits? My downstairs unit is about 13 years old, and I just replaced the fan motor and the contactor, but man, does it hit hard every time the compressor kicks on. There is some minor light dimming, and it is loud when it kicks on.

AC repair company I use utilizes ICM Soft starts and I believe charges about $600-$700 for parts and labor.

I don't currently plan to install a generator or generator hookups, but I'm wondering whether I should go ahead and get one to help the compressor.

Have y'all installed them yourself? Anyone installed them on a unit that uses a ECM condenser fan motor (Electronically Commutated Motor)?

TIA

can't you get a hard start to accomplish the same thing for less?

Soft starts are not proven to extend compressor life across the board. Modern compressors are designed to handle the inrush current.

I haven't looked into those, but will. Thanks

Was thinking the soft-start would reduce inrush current and reduce wear on compressor components and electrical parts, etc.

I have this and so does my father. Should extend compressor life. Soft start > hard start.

I don't disagree with your thinking, but I don't think they benefit modern compressors in any way. Ever heard of a compressor get nuked from inrush? I haven't

A soft start can reduce starting torque and therefore mechanical stress on the drivetrain/system during starting but only then. The reduction in starting current it provides is welcome IF you are running from a marginally sized generator during the start from rest to full speed or the voltage drop its causing during starting is causing other equipment to lockup, trip or reset.

The system is still going to run at full voltage for the bulk of its operating hours just like it did before. So unless you have noticed drivetrain issues or vibration and bearing issues in the current system it probably doesn't have much life extending capability to the existing system.