Generator struggles to start A/C
This season I am having issues with my Honda EU3000i handi generator starting the A/C compressor. It has worked fine the last 7 years, even using the Eco throttle setting (low idle) at 115+* heat or ...
Forum Discussion
OK. I spent some quality time on the roof.
Test #1:
I removed the old HSK (hard start kit) and left the new one on. A/C wouldn't start even with gen at high rpm.
Test #2: I removed both HSKs. A/C comp started right up. switched gen to eco (low rpm). Starts great like this too. (like it used to).
But this goes against expected operation. Yes the A/C doesn't 'need' a HSK, as it is a factory option to have one. But a properly functioning one 'should' help as it increases phase delay to start winding.
Test #3
Just to confirm, I reinstalled the old HSK. It struggled to start A/C.
I removed all caps and tested them. All are in spec including the split cap (5u/30u). I tested the PTC relays, they are closed when cold/no current like they should be.
So it appears possible that the comp motor likes only 30uf and not the parallel combination of the 50u of the old and 100u of the new HSK.
BUT, WHAT changed? I was fine before with the old HSK.
I can just leave the HSK off, but my warped mind must understand why. Perhaps there is another issue I haven't found yet.
Test #1:
I removed the old HSK (hard start kit) and left the new one on. A/C wouldn't start even with gen at high rpm.
Test #2: I removed both HSKs. A/C comp started right up. switched gen to eco (low rpm). Starts great like this too. (like it used to).
But this goes against expected operation. Yes the A/C doesn't 'need' a HSK, as it is a factory option to have one. But a properly functioning one 'should' help as it increases phase delay to start winding.
Test #3
Just to confirm, I reinstalled the old HSK. It struggled to start A/C.
I removed all caps and tested them. All are in spec including the split cap (5u/30u). I tested the PTC relays, they are closed when cold/no current like they should be.
So it appears possible that the comp motor likes only 30uf and not the parallel combination of the 50u of the old and 100u of the new HSK.
BUT, WHAT changed? I was fine before with the old HSK.
I can just leave the HSK off, but my warped mind must understand why. Perhaps there is another issue I haven't found yet.
