Quck answer
To reset a furnace using the furnace reset button, follow these steps:
1. Locate the furnace reset button. It is usually located on the furnace control panel or near the blower motor.
2. Turn off the furnace by switching off the power supply. This can be done by flipping the switch on the circuit breaker or removing the fuse.
3. Wait for about 30 seconds to allow the furnace to fully power down.
4. Press the furnace reset button. It may be labeled as “reset” or have a small red button.
5. Turn the power supply back on by flipping the circuit breaker switch or inserting the fuse.
6. Wait for the furnace to start up again. This may take a few minutes.
7. Check if the furnace is functioning properly. If not, it may require further inspection or professional repair.
Resetting the furnace using the reset button can help resolve minor issues and restore its functionality. However, if the problem persists, it is recommended to consult a professional technician for assistance.
Being able to reset a furnace is an important skill for homeowners, regardless of whether they have a gas, oil, or electric furnace. Most furnaces have a reset button, usually located inside the blower housing next to the blower motor. When a problem occurs, such as a gas supply interruption, an empty oil tank, or an overheated blower, the furnace reset button pops out and needs to be pushed back in to restart the furnace. However, there is a specific procedure that should be followed to ensure safety.
If you are unsure of the location of your furnace reset button, it is best to find it now so you don’t have to search for it when you need it. You can usually find the reset button by removing the access panel from the furnace blower motor housing and looking inside. The reset button is typically red or yellow and is usually easy to spot. However, depending on the furnace design, it may require some searching, which is why it’s important to know its location beforehand. If you are unable to locate the reset button, consult your owner’s manual or seek assistance from an HVAC professional.
Resetting a Furnace Using the Reset Button
While pushing the reset button should get your furnace or HVAC system running again, the fuel may not start flowing until you complete an additional procedure. For an electric furnace, the only fuel is electricity, but it is still recommended to turn off the power before resetting the furnace. The procedures for resetting an electric, gas, or oil furnace are as follows:
Step 1: Restarting an Electric Furnace With the Reset Button
If the furnace does not have a power switch, turn off the circuit breaker that controls the furnace. Open the blower housing and locate the reset button on the side of the blower motor. Press the button until it clicks, and then restore power to the furnace by turning the breaker back on. The furnace should start automatically once it receives a signal from the thermostat.
Step 2: Restarting a Gas Furnace With the Reset Button
Ensure that the pilot light is out. If it is not, turn the gas control switch to “off” and make sure the pilot goes out. Then, lower the thermostat to its lowest setting. If the furnace has electronic ignition, turn off the power by switching off the circuit breaker that controls the furnace. Turn off the main gas supply to the furnace, but leave the pilot gas supply line open. In many cases, this can be done by turning the main gas control knob to “pilot” and holding it in.
Relight the pilot by holding a lit match or lighter in front of the pilot flame jet. If the furnace has a sealed pilot compartment, you may see a red button for piezoelectric spark ignition. If so, press this button repeatedly until the pilot ignites. If you turned off the power, turn it back on. Then, turn on the main gas supply and press the reset button. Hold it in for about 30 seconds, release it, and adjust the main thermostat to its previous setting.
Step 3: Resetting the Oil Furnace Using the Reset Button
Prior to resetting an oil furnace, identify the reason for the shutdown. If there was a power outage, simply pressing the reset button will suffice. However, if you have run out of oil, you will need to fill the oil tank and bleed the fuel line before proceeding. In the latter scenario, locate the bleeder valve on the fuel pump, which can be found near the burner and has fuel lines connected to it. Place a container beneath the valve that is large enough to hold at least 1 quart of fuel, or connect tubing from the fuel pump to a 1-quart plastic bottle.
Ensure that the power is turned on, then open the bleeder valve and allow the fuel to flow until a steady stream without any air bubbles is observed. Next, press the reset button, which should activate the furnace. Once the furnace has started, close the bleeder valve and transfer any excess fuel back into the fuel tank.
Troubleshooting a Furnace Reset Button
There may be instances where pressing the reset button does not successfully reset the furnace, or the button keeps popping out repeatedly. This can occur due to the following reasons:
- The air filter may be dirty and obstructing airflow. Replace the filter.
- The flame sensor may be dirty. Clean it.
- The fuel line may be clogged. Clear the blockage.
- The furnace may have overheated. Allow it to cool down before attempting to restart.
Handling furnace repairs and maintenance without professional assistance can be challenging for most homeowners. It is best to avoid DIY attempts, as working with flammable and volatile fuels can lead to serious consequences. Similarly, attempting electrical repairs without proper knowledge and experience can be dangerous. If you encounter issues with your heating system or HVAC system and lack confidence in making the repairs yourself, do not hesitate to seek professional service.
