Does the Penguin II have an Auto Setting? Should I get the Soft Start to Run off My Generator?
Updated 11/03/2025 | Published 01/19/2025
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Does this 13.5 dometic AC/heat pump have a fan that has an “auto” setting ? Meaning that the fan will cycle off when it’s not calling for a duty cycle? So the unit is actually quiet when it’s satisfied? Are people running these units with a “soft start” and a honda2.2 inverter/gen? This unit could be great for us Thanks for the help
asked by: Steven T
Expert Reply:
Hello Steven,
Yes, the Dometic Penguin II Low Profile RV Air Conditioner w/ Heat Pump - Multi Zone - 13,500 Btu - White # DMC38ZR will have the "auto" setting on the thermostat # DMC23ZR so when you reach your desired temperature the fan will cycle off. The # DMC38ZR can be used by itself or you can add a second one since it is a multi zone unit, it works on both ducted and ductless systems.
I definitely recommend getting the soft start especially if you are going to be starting the unit with your Honda 2.2 generator. The Dometic Soft Start # DMC77RR is the one you will want for the Penguin II. Sometimes at the initial start it can surge the amperage 2 to 3 times the normal draw, this will control that so that your max draw would be only 20 amps max.
For an air distribution box you will want the Dometic Air Distribution Box for RV Air Conditioners - Wall Thermostat - White # DMC66RR.
I've included some review videos for you to check out as well, they really give you a good feel for the product before purchasing.
Are you adding an AC unit to your camper or replacing one? Any fun adventures planned for 2025?
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: dometic penguin
- Q&A: Recommended Soft Start for a Dometic AC System
- Shop: Dometic Soft Start for Penguin II Mechanical Air Conditioner Setup - Single Zone - Qty 1
- Shop: Dometic Soft Start for Penguin II Electronic Air Conditioner Setup - Single Zone - Qty 1
- Q&A: Which Dometic SmartStart Fits Dometic Penguin II AC With Manual Controls Under Vent Assembly
- Video: Review of Dometic Soft Start Penguin II Mechanical Air Conditioner Setup - DMC52RR
- Shop: SoftStartUp Plug-In Soft Start for RV Air Conditioners - 50 Amp Dual AC
- Shop: Dometic Soft Start for FreshJet Mechanical Air Conditioner Setup - Qty 1
- Search Results: smartstart
- Search Results: add coupon code
- Q&A: Is A Wall Thermostat Required For The Dometic Penguin II High Capacity RV Air Conditioner DMC53ZR?
- Q&A: What Soft Start To Use With Dometic AC Unit
- Q&A: Does Dometic Penguin II RV AC Unit Have Remote Control Option Available
- Video: Review of Dometic Soft Start Penguin II Electronic Air Conditioner Setup - DMC77RR
- Shop: Dometic Air Distribution Box for RV Air Conditioners - Wall Thermostat - White
- Q&A: Maintaining Landing Gear On 5th Wheel Trailer
- Search Results: power outlet
- Search Results: rv range hoods
- Search Results: rv vents and fans
- Search Results: rv electrical outlet
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Duplex Receptacle - 120V - 15 Amp - GFCI - White
- Shop: Ventline Exterior Wall Vent for RV Range Hood - 1-3/4" Collar - Nu-Tru White
- Shop: RV Interior Lighting
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Manual for Hopkins Reliance Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
Kate F.
11/3/2025
Hey Steven, how did the Penguin II with the soft start work with your Honda 2.2 generator? Your update could make it easier for others looking to run a similar setup quietly.