It's a small, red button usually located on or around the unit. The button should have a clear 'reset' label. Once you find the button, press it for around three seconds and observe the AC.
Look for it first around on the exterior of your machine, especially along the bottom edge near the ground. An AC's reset button is typically red and visible, so it should be easy to spot. If you don't see a reset button on the outside, it could be located inside the unit behind the service panel.
The main reasons your AC unit outside is not turning on could be something that has tripped the circuit breaker, something is blocking the fan's airflow, or the condensing unit is damaged. Other potential issues could be the thermostat isn't set correctly or the compressor could be malfunctioning.
Once you locate the isolator, you may turn it off and wait for 30 minutes. The time allows for the appliance to dispel electrostatic charge. After half an hour, you can turn the lever your AC should restart without a problem. Once your AC is on, test it to determine if it's working.
In this case, there are two ways that you could notice a breaker switch for your HVAC system. The breaker switches will either be located in a breaker box in your garage or outside near the unit in a smaller metal box. Most of the time, there are multiple breaker switches.
In AC systems, the air conditioner reset button is on the outside unit's lower edge, typically close to the ground. Some models have the reset button located behind the service panel, which may require tools to remove. Reset buttons are usually red or yellow with a clear “reset” label.
Typically, it is located on the motor or near the motor housing. Look for a small red or black button that is often labeled “reset.”
Shut off your system by hitting the isolation switch, wait 30 to 60 minutes and then turn it back on. This manual reboot fully disconnects your AC unit from power, allowing all electrical components to reset.
Make sure the outside unit is turned on (there's probably a switch near the unit). If the outside unit has a separate circuit breaker, check your circuit box and make sure it hasn't been tripped. A more serious issue if the outside air conditioning unit's not working is a broken compressor, capacitor or fan.
A sure sign of a bad AC capacitor is a humming sound from within the access panel. Any humming noises indicate a problem with the air conditioning system or the components of the AC unit. Try turning the power on and off again to see if it was a one-time issue with the motor or a recurring problem.
A tripped circuit breaker can be a major cause of why an outside AC unit isn't turning on. This occurs when the current is too high in the outdoor unit, causing the breaker in the fuse box or main electrical panel to switch off power to the unit, resulting in it not receiving any electricity.
However, not all units have one, and it's essential to consult your user manual or an HVAC professional if you're unsure. Remember, while the reset button can be a quick fix, persistent problems should always be addressed by a qualified technician to prevent further damage and ensure your system runs efficiently.
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.
If your air conditioner has a reset control, this is the easiest way to clear any slight bugs in the system. This small, red button is likely on or near the outside condensing unit, sometimes under a panel marked “Reset”. If you can't find it, reference your AC's owner's manual or find a digital copy online.
Once you locate it, turn the knob to the off position and leave it for at least 30 minutes up to an hour. This will allow the electrically operated components in the AC to reset.
Your AC unit may in fact have its own reset feature already. This feature will likely perform this entire process for you when selected.
Check For An AC Reset Button
Some systems have a reset button on the unit that'll perform the resetting process for you. To check if your system has this button, you'll need to look for it on your outdoor unit. Usually, it's a large red button.
Check Your Power
If the compressor is not working in your AC unit it could be because it has no power. Check your fuse box to see if a fuse is blown or if the breaker has been tripped. Most fuse boxes have tags that tell you what fuse or breaker delivers power to your AC unit.
To test the GFCI outlet, simply push the test button in for five seconds. The outlet should lose power and the reset button should push out. This means the GFCI is working properly. Press the reset button back in, and you're ready to use the outlet.
This is typically found on the outside of your house, often near the electric meter. The exterior electrical panel houses the main circuit breaker for your entire home, as well as individual branch circuit breakers for specific areas or appliances.