The only time a soft start really comes in handy is if you are running a generator, on a reducer adapter or at a location with low voltage. If you have two air conditioners and you are connected to a 30 amp sources, you can technically get away with running two air conditioners and nothing else with a soft start since the compressors won’t be pulling as much. Even with soft starts you will have to pay attention what else you run when using a reducer. If you are using a low wattage generator a soft start can help as well. Or if you run into campgrounds with a low voltage a lot and the AC trips the breaker, soft start might help. Other than those, there is no reason to get soft starts. If you fall into one of these categories then it could be beneficial.

Hi James. Even with the soft start you are going to be pulling around 12 amps running so you will get a lot of heat build up at the outlet and can’t use anything else in the camper at the same time. Switching to the smaller AC without a heat strip can be run on a 15 amp circuit but you will lose a lot of cooling. The 9200 BTU AC units are for vans and truck campers. If you have a larger camper, it will be really hard to cool. Using the soft start is going to be the easiest you just have to keep an eye on things and make sure nothing is getting too hot, mainly outlet adapters and the outlet itself.
Dan
RV Repair Club

Hello Chuck,

Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hours of Premium video content.

If you are interested in becoming a member, please click on the special offer below:

https://go.rvrepairclub.com/a19774/

Thanks!

Sarah
RV Repair Club Video Membership

Hello Judy,

Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:

The engine battery will be in the engine compartment, the house batteries for the living area are typically under the steps. Every RV places them in different areas, the most common is near the steps though. Both sets of these batteries, house and engine, should charge when the engine is running from the alternator. The house batteries will get a charge from the converter when plugged into shore power but normally the engine battery only charges when traveling.

Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert

Hello Rick,

Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:

I would recommend Progressive Dynamics for both the converter and power center. WFCO makes good systems as well but I like the converters from Progressive Dynamics a little better. You would be fine with either system. I will share a few links below.
https://www.progressivedyn.com/

https://wfcoelectronics.com/product/wf-8735-35-amp/#tab-611b18469be7a

Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert

Hello James,

Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:

The roofing material I recommend is TPO rubber. It is light weight, durable and has built in UV protectant. This is the best option for newer roof replacements in my opinion.
https://dicorproducts.com/product/diflex-ii-tpo-roofing/

Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert