Is there a reset button on an HVAC unit?

Author: Greyson Langosh  |  Last update: Sunday, December 21, 2025

It's a small, red button usually located on or around the unit. The button should have a clear 'reset' label.

Where is the reset button on my HVAC unit?

Power down your AC: Turn off your AC unit and unplug it from the power source. This will ensure that you stay safe while working on the unit. Locate the reset button: Most air conditioning units have a reset button located near the outside unit. It is usually a small button located inside a small hole.

Do all outdoor AC units have a reset button?

Not all air conditioning units have a reset button, but if yours does, it's typically located on the outdoor unit. Here's how to locate it: Turn Off the Power: Before you search for the reset button, ensure the power to the unit is turned off for safety reasons.

Will an AC unit reset itself?

Your AC unit may in fact have its own reset feature already. This feature will likely perform this entire process for you when selected.

How long does it take for HVAC to 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.

Where is the reset button on Goodman HVAC unit?

Why is my AC unit not kicking on?

Check the thermostat

You should check if it's been set to the correct temperature and also make sure it's set to “cool”. If the AC settings are not right, it won't turn on. You can also check if the batteries in the thermostat are fresh and replace them if needed.

What is reset in HVAC?

In an office, school, or other large building with an HVAC system a reset strategy saves energy by reducing the production of something – cold air, hot water, or air pressure – that takes energy to make.

Will resetting the thermostat fix AC?

Resetting your thermostat is an easy first step in troubleshooting temperature control issues. If problems persist after a reset, you should contact an HVAC technician for additional diagnostics and repairs.

How do I get my AC to kick on?

Follow these steps.
  1. Step 1: Check the thermostat. Make sure that your thermostat is set to "cool" and not "heat" (if it's set to heat, your AC won't turn on no matter what). ...
  2. Step 2: Check the air filter. ...
  3. Step 3: Check the circuit breakers. ...
  4. Step 4: Clear the condensate drain.

Where is the AC breaker located?

Circuit breakers can be found in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. They are typically located in the main electrical panel, which is typically located in the basement or garage.

Why is my outside AC unit not turning on?

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.

Where is the carrier AC reset button?

In most cases, the small red reset button is inside the AC's compressor. If unsure, you can always refer to the user's manual to find the exact location.

Why is AC not blowing cold air?

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.

How to reset HVAC breaker?

Reset Your Circuit Breaker

Identify the electrical panel—frequently found in the garage, basement, crawlspace or utility closet—and look for the switch for your HVAC system. If the circuits aren't labeled, you might have to try things out. Turn the circuit breaker off, wait 30 minutes, and then flip it back on.

Why is my carrier AC not cooling?

If your AC is running but not cooling, it could be due to a dirty air filter, incorrect thermostat settings, a malfunctioning thermostat, a refrigerant leak, dirty condenser coils, blocked vents or ducts, a faulty compressor, frozen evaporator coils, or electrical issues.

Where is the AC reset button located?

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.

What would cause my AC to not kick on?

Power issues: A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse in your home's electrical system will prevent your AC from starting. Thermostat problems: Make sure you have your thermostat set to “cool” and the temperature is set below the current temperature in the room.

Why is my outside AC unit not working but inside is?

Over time, the fan motor on the outside AC unit can wear out, causing the outdoor unit to stop working even when the inside AC unit is on. The fan motor can last 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance, like annual inspections and regular AC unit cleanings, but it will wear down faster without regular maintenance.

Do all AC units have a reset button?

Steps To Follow While Resetting Air Conditioner

One wrong step can cause greater damage. For this reason, follow a pattern while resetting your AC. Some ACs come with a reset button, while some don't. Most of the split AC systems have a reset button.

How long to leave AC off to reset?

How Do You Manually Reset Your AC?
  1. Search For The Breaker Box. Identify where your home's breaker box is located. ...
  2. Shut Off Your AC Unit At The Breaker. ...
  3. Wait 30 Minutes Before Restoring Power To The Thermostat. ...
  4. Set The Thermostat To Cooling Mode.

How do you know if your thermostat needs to be reset?

If you've been cranking the thermostat up and down, but failing to achieve a comfortable temperature, you may need to reset the thermostat for your heating and cooling system.

How do I reset my HVAC system?

Turning Off & Resetting Your AC Unit in 4 Simple Steps
  1. Shut it Off.
  2. Get to the Circuit Breaker. So far, so good. ...
  3. Wait 30 Seconds. After turning off the circuit breaker linked to the AC unit, wait for a full minute. ...
  4. Turn it Back On. After waiting for 1 minute, the AC unit will reset on its own.

Is there a reset button on an AC thermostat?

Most modern thermostats will have a clearly marked reset button inside the panel. It's usually small and recessed, so you might need a pointed object like a paperclip to press it.

Do all blower motors have a reset button?

It's designed to automatically shut off the furnace blower if it overheats. Once the blower cools down, pressing the reset button can help restart the furnace. However, it's essential to understand that not all furnace models are equipped with this feature.

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