Simulation and implementation of soft-started residential air conditioner

In this work, we address the experimental evaluation of different soft-starting time-based strategies efficiency in reducing the dip in voltage and the inrush current of a window type residential AC unit line. The soft-starter is based on power electronic devices controlled through a firing signal generated by a programmed microcontroller during the first 500 ms. Direct and soft starting simulations and experimental tests were conducted for a single phase induction motor (SPIM) driven window type air conditioning unit. The soft starting technique applied for several starting firing angles and time constant profile scenarios has reached substantial reduction in the starting inrush current and very reasonable improvement in the voltage dip level.