I can provide information about soft start boxes and their purpose.
A soft start box, also known as a soft starter or soft start kit, is an electronic device designed to reduce the inrush current or starting current of an electrical appliance, such as an air conditioning unit, during startup. When a motor-driven appliance like an A/C unit starts, it requires a significant surge of current to get the motor up to its operating speed. This inrush current can be much higher than the motor's rated running current.
By using a soft start box, the initial inrush current can be reduced, which helps to prevent sudden voltage drops or amperage surges on the electrical system. This can be particularly beneficial in situations where there are multiple appliances starting simultaneously, as it reduces the stress on the electrical system and helps avoid circuit breakers from tripping or fuses blowing.
The soft start box achieves this by controlling the voltage supplied to the motor during startup, gradually ramping up the voltage and accelerating the motor to its operating speed more smoothly than a traditional direct start. Once the motor reaches its operating speed, the soft start device typically disengages, allowing the motor to run at its rated voltage and current.
It's important to note that soft start boxes are typically installed by professional electricians or HVAC technicians, and their compatibility with specific A/C units should be confirmed before installation. They can be useful for reducing wear and tear on electrical components, extending the lifespan of motors, and improving the overall efficiency of the electrical system.