Available for OEM and aftermarket retrofit for Dometic Marine Cruisair and Marine Air systems, the SmartStart™ is a single-phase compressor motor startup control that reduces the startup current surge by up to 65 percent.
"On average, typical single-phase soft-start products reduce startup surge by 20-40 percent. By reducing startup surge by as much as 65 percent, this gentler method of handling a power surge can mean the difference between boat owners keeping the generator they already have, or investing in a larger generator," comments Frank Marciano, President, Dometic Marine.
The current surge or spike can occur whenever an air conditioning system cycles on, possibly causing flickering lights and tripped circuit breakers. In extreme cases, the current surge can cause the generator output voltage to momentarily reduce or even shut down. When this happens, the air conditioning compressor can stall and fail to start. Over time, these failed startup attempts can cause damage to the compressor.
Once running, a compressor has a much lower, steady amp draw. It is the initial locked-rotor amps needed to start the system that create high current surges which can adversely affect the operation of an overstrained generator. Many generators and shore power connections have sufficient power to run one or more air conditioning units, but may not have sufficient power to start one or more units, especially if systems are already running.
The compact and lightweight SmartStart™ control measures 12.7cm x 7.6cm x 5.1cm and weighs 0.43kg, making it easy to install with virtually any existing marine air conditioning system. Furthermore the system is available in three voltage/frequency varieties and can be installed directly into the air conditioning system's electrical box. Alternatively the system's drip-proof enclosure enables it to be mounted externally, depending on customer requirement.
Features:
- Reduces strain on generator
- Reduces effects at compressor start up
- Can eliminate need to upgrade your generator
- Inexpensive
- Compact and lightweight
For media enquirements, please contact:
Doug Curtis
Dometic Marine
Tel: +1 954 633 3110
doug.curtis@dometicusa.com