We also have the delay when I flip on the air conditioners. But, I never leave the switch in the 'on' position. I just don't want to risk overloading the transfer switch which I'm sure wouldn't happen with our system.
What I do.... I have the thermostat in the off position but have the air conditioners set to come on when the button on the thermostat is flipped to the 'on' position. So, when I start the genny and let it come up to speed, I have my co-pilot walk over to the thermostat and flip it on. That way, I know for sure that I'm not putting any kind of strain on anything.
MM.