Install hard start capacitor on Dometic 15k ac?

[rgnmgr]

I have a Dometic 15k AC, cooling only unit, model B59516.711, on my 2014 Bullet. It has a single capacitor. How/where is a second "Hard Start" capacitor added? I assume it is connected to the existing capacitor?

[scott24]

Why do you need a hardstart on it? How old is it?

[rgnmgr]

Unit is a 2014. We are preparing for dry camping and adding a portable generator. Just wanted to be in front of any start up issues.
Unit works fine on 30 amp electrical hook ups.

[scott24]

You wont need to install a hardstart kit. Those are only put on if the compressor is drawing alot of amps on start up.

[BirchyBoy]

Originally Posted by scott24

You wont need to install a hardstart kit. Those are only put on if the compressor is drawing alot of amps on start up.

Just to add to this, if you have to add a "hard start" kit to a home A/C system, it is generally indicative of other issues, such as a motor starting to go bad, etc. Been there, done that. Not money well spent.

[scott24]

A hard start is for a compressor, not the condensor fan.

[bg71361]

Originally Posted by rgnmgr

I have a Dometic 15k AC, cooling only unit, model B59516.711, on my 2014 Bullet. It has a single capacitor. How/where is a second "Hard Start" capacitor added? I assume it is connected to the existing capacitor?

Here is a link to what you want to do, I did mine earlier this year very easy to do. Good luck

http://www.loveyourrv.com/installing...r-conditioner/

[rgnmgr]

Thanks for the input.
I cannot disagree, but wonder why Dometic offers a hard start capacitor for this unit?
Since Texas gets so very hot, I assumed this addition might make sense if I run a minimum wattage generator based on the comment of others.

[bg71361]

Originally Posted by rgnmgr

Thanks for the input.
I cannot disagree, but wonder why Dometic offers a hard start capacitor for this unit?
Since Texas gets so very hot, I assumed this addition might make sense if I run a minimum wattage generator based on the comment of others.

It does make sense, makes a huge difference when connected to a generator.

[denverpilot]

Just for info, we've found that a Honda 3000 on Eco mode won't quite survive an A/C start at altitude -- it'll trip out but remain running from an under volt -- but turn off Eco for a moment, start A/C and keep it set to a temp that'll keep it on and Eco can be turned back on.

[rgnmgr]

What size AC do you have? Dometic says 3.5 kw is minimum for 15k AC.

[bg71361]

Originally Posted by rgnmgr

What size AC do you have? Dometic says 3.5 kw is minimum for 15k AC.

I have a 15K Dometic mdl #459516.711C0. I installed Dometic part #3310727.015 link below.



http://www.dyersonline.com/dometic-a...capacitor.html

[rgnmgr]

Can you run lights etc. (excluding microwave) and AC with your generator? Do you switch the refrigerator to gas?

[bg71361]

Originally Posted by rgnmgr

Can you run lights etc. (excluding microwave) and AC with your generator? Do you switch the refrigerator to gas?

It all depends on the size of your generator, have you purchased or are you favoring one over the other?

[bg71361]

Originally Posted by rgnmgr

What size AC do you have? Dometic says 3.5 kw is minimum for 15k AC.

Correct some say they can power. 15k ac with the Honda 3000 inverter generator but elevation comes into play also. It depends on how deep your pockets are as to what you buy, speaking for myself I use a Champion 3500/4000 surge generator and it is adequate. If noise is an issue there are other options too. (I have a 15k ac)

Yes I usually run the frig on gas plus hot water heater that way I have wattage left to run lights and more, I cycle the ac off
To run the microwave. As I recall I can make coffee with the ac on, it's a juggling game so the hard start kit is a good idea when your generator is on the line.

[mfifield01]

Does the Dometic A/C not come with the Hard Start Capacitor? I was under the impression that it had one from the factory.

Can you start your A/C with Eco Mode On?

[jje1960]

Definitely don't want to combat other perspectives, however my experience with capacitors is very positive. I installed one on our 15K unit the first year and had a very noticeable difference of starting the unit while on generator. While not being able to start from econ mode on our Boliy, the starting was very much less draw than without. JS, the hard start capacitor was a nice addition for us.