Will Active Controls ActiveStart Hardwired Soft Start for RVs Help Reduce AC Power Draw

Updated 09/26/2025 | Published 04/18/2025

Question:

WE are building a unit with a 7KW Onan gas gen and two roof top AC units. Will the Active Start be the solution to keep the two AC units from starting at the same time? Any other solutions or issues with 2 13,500 BTU AC off a 7KW gen?

asked by: Larry K

Expert Reply:

Hey Larry, the Active Controls ActiveStart Hardwired Soft Start for RVs # AS57FR that you referenced will allow your AC units to come on and not draw quite as much amperage on startup which means you wouldn't need to have as bit of a generator to cover the peak start up current draw. It wouldn't necessarily stagger the start up of either system but it would still reduce the peak draw when they both fire up.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jameson C.

9/26/2025

Hey Larry, did the ActiveStart help with managing the startup of your AC units on the 7KW generator? I'm curious to know if it worked out for you, as it could help others in a similar situation.