Using a Westinghouse igen4500df generator, the user has experienced inconsistent results when starting an AC unit. Sometimes it starts successfully, while other times it only hums before tripping the overload protection of the
inverter generator. Testing the compressor coils shows no resistance, and the capacitors are within 2% of their ratings. The motor starter is within the specified range. On the generator side, successful startups draw around 28-30 amps, while unsuccessful attempts reach a maximum of 48 amps but experience low voltage (down to 95v) during the heavy draw period, leading to overload tripping. The low voltage drops to 55v during initial heavy draw but recovers quickly, except in unsuccessful starts. Measurements are taken using true rms equipment. The fan motor spins freely, and the refrigerant has not been checked. The user plans to get a soft start but is perplexed that a 4500 watt generator struggles to start a single AC system, even though a 15k BTU AC unit runs without issues in the shed. The user seeks suggestions on other possible causes and wonders if this is a common issue for units without a soft start or if Westinghouse generators are generally unreliable.