Can I Run My Dometic FreshJet 5 RV Air Conditioner With a 2,000-Watt Generator?

Published 10/14/2026

Question:

I have a Dometic FreshJet 5 air conditioner in my RV, and my 2000 watt generator struggles to start the compressor. Will the Dometic SmartStart DMC983HV help me run the AC on a smaller generator without tripping the breaker?

asked by: Albert

Expert Reply:

Hey Albert, thanks for writing in. Yes, the Dometic SmartStart Soft Starter # DMC983HV is designed specifically for Dometic FreshJet 5 electronic air conditioners and is a great option when your generator struggles with the initial power demand of starting the compressor. It reduces the startup power demand by up to 75%, making it possible to run a compatible air conditioner with a generator as small as 2,000 watts, depending on the AC model and other electrical loads.

The nice thing about adding a soft start is that it reduces that big initial surge without changing how your air conditioner operates once it's running. Just keep in mind that it doesn't reduce the AC's normal running power consumption, so your generator still needs enough capacity to keep everything running after startup.

Are you trying to run just the air conditioner or other appliances at the same time?

expert reply by: Jesse M