Where is the Reset Button on the Air Conditioning Unit? Fix Common Issues Quickly

When your air conditioning system suddenly stops working or is behaving oddly, one of the first troubleshooting steps you should take is to locate the reset button on the unit. This simple reset process can often fix common issues and restore normal function, saving you time and potentially expensive repairs. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the location of the reset button, the common problems it can resolve, and how to reset your AC unit.

What is the Reset Button on an Air Conditioning Unit?

The reset button on an air conditioning unit is a safety feature designed to restart the system after a malfunction or power surge. It can help resolve issues like overheating, tripped circuit breakers, or other electrical problems that might cause the unit to stop functioning. The reset button is typically found on the outdoor unit or the air handler of your HVAC system.

Common Issues the Reset Button Can Fix

Before jumping into how to reset your AC unit, let’s first take a look at some common issues that the reset button can address:

• Power Surges: A sudden spike in electricity can cause your air conditioner to stop working. The reset button can help clear any internal faults caused by this power surge.
• Overheating: If your AC unit has been running for an extended period, it might overheat and shut down as a safety precaution. Pressing the reset button can help cool the system down and get it working again.
• Tripped Circuit Breakers: If the breaker that powers your air conditioning unit trips, your system will stop working. The reset button allows you to restart the system without the need for a full reset of the circuit breaker.
• Thermostat Issues: If your thermostat is malfunctioning or if the system is not responding to changes in temperature, the reset button may help restore communication between the thermostat and the AC unit.

How to Find the Reset Button on Your AC Unit

Finding the reset button on your AC unit depends on the type of system you have. Here are the general locations for various components:

1. For Central Air Conditioning Systems

• Outdoor Unit: The reset button is typically located on the outdoor compressor unit. Look for a small, red or black button that’s often near the electrical panel. It may be labeled as “reset” or “reset switch.”
• Air Handler or Furnace: In some cases, the reset button can also be located on the air handler or furnace unit, which is usually inside your home or attic. This button can be found near the control board, often behind a panel or access door.

2. For Window AC Units

• Side Panel or Behind the Filter: On smaller, window-mounted units, the reset button is usually located on the side of the unit or behind the front panel, close to the filter area. It might be labeled with “reset” or indicated by a small, round button.

3. For Ductless Mini-Split Systems

• Outdoor Unit: Like central air systems, the reset button for mini-split systems is often located on the outdoor compressor unit. It will typically be a small, recessed button.
• Indoor Unit Control Panel: Some mini-split systems have a reset button on the control board of the indoor unit. You may need to open the cover or remove the panel to access it.

How to Reset Your Air Conditioning Unit

Once you’ve located the reset button, follow these steps to reset your AC unit and potentially fix common issues:

1. Turn Off the Power

Before pressing the reset button, make sure the system is powered off. This can be done by turning off the thermostat or switching off the circuit breaker that powers the AC unit. Wait for about 30 seconds to 1 minute before proceeding.

2. Press the Reset Button

Press the reset button firmly. You may hear a click or feel a slight resistance when it’s engaged. Hold the button down for a few seconds to ensure that the system is properly reset. In some cases, the button might pop back out automatically after pressing it.

3. Restore Power to the Unit

After resetting, turn the power back on by switching the circuit breaker back on or setting the thermostat to a cooling mode. The AC unit should begin functioning again.

4. Check for Normal Operation

Set your thermostat to your desired temperature and monitor the AC unit for a few minutes. Ensure that the system is cooling effectively and that the airflow is steady. If the unit doesn’t start working after resetting, there may be a deeper issue that requires professional inspection.

When to Call a Professional

While resetting your AC unit can solve minor issues, some problems require the expertise of an HVAC professional. If your air conditioner continues to have trouble after a reset, or if you cannot find the reset button, it’s time to call a technician. Common problems that may require professional service include:

• Refrigerant Leaks
• Compressor Failure
• Electrical Faults
• Faulty Thermostats
• Frozen Coils

If you’re unsure about the reset process or if the system doesn’t start working after resetting, it’s best to consult a professional HVAC technician.

Final Thoughts:

Finding and pressing the reset button on your AC unit is a simple and effective way to address common issues like overheating or power surges. However, if the problem persists or you’re unsure about how to reset your unit, don’t hesitate to call in an expert. Elite Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you with any air conditioning repairs or maintenance. Our experienced technicians can get your system up and running in no time. Contact us at 702-263-2665 for all your HVAC needs!