It’s 7:56 pm & We’re Always Open.

The More You Know The Better!

Schedule Service Now

Where Is the Furnace Reset Button and Why Does It Trip?

By Eco Temp HVAC December 21, 2024

Close-up view of a furnace reset button being pressed by an HVAC technician, showcasing proper safety and functionality in a clean utility room.

As the Midwest winter sets in, having a reliable heating system is critical. At Eco Temp HVAC, we understand how frustrating it can be when your furnace stops working unexpectedly. One key component that homeowners in Chicago and St. Charles often overlook is the furnace reset button. This blog explains its function, common issues, and how to handle it effectively.

Jump to:

What Does the Furnace Reset Button Do?

The reset button is a safety feature designed to protect your furnace from overheating or other malfunctions. When the system detects unsafe operating conditions, it triggers the reset button, which shuts the furnace down to prevent further damage. The reset button is connected to the limit switch, which monitors the furnace’s temperature to ensure safe operation.

Pressing the reset button allows you to restart the furnace, but it should only be done in specific situations. If your furnace repeatedly shuts down, it’s time to call the experts at Eco Temp HVAC for professional diagnostics and repairs.

Where Is My Furnace Reset Button?

The reset button’s location varies depending on your furnace’s make and model. In most modern systems, it’s found near the blower motor inside the air handler compartment. In older models, it could be located underneath or behind the blower motor, making it harder to spot. Typically, the reset button is red or yellow for easy identification.

If you’re having trouble locating it, our team at Eco Temp HVAC is just a call away to assist you with all your furnace needs in Chicagoland and St. Charles.

Is It Safe to Press the Reset Button?

Yes, it’s safe when done correctly. However, pressing the button repeatedly can cause damage to your furnace by overloading the system. If your furnace shuts down immediately after pressing the reset button, avoid pressing it again. Instead, contact Eco Temp HVAC for a thorough inspection.

What Causes the Reset Button to Trip?

The furnace reset button is typically triggered by one of the following issues:

  • Blocked Gas Valves: Closed or blocked gas valves prevent the furnace from functioning properly.
  • Overheating: Poor airflow caused by dirty air filters or clogged vents can overheat the furnace.
  • Fuel Shortages: An empty fuel tank can cause the system to shut down.
  • Dirty Flame Sensor: Debris on the flame sensor can cause the furnace to malfunction.
  • Clogged Air Filters: Restricted airflow can overheat the system and trip the reset button.

Addressing these issues early with regular furnace maintenance can prevent unnecessary disruptions.

How to Reset a Furnace

If you need to reset your furnace, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the power supply to the furnace at the circuit breaker.
  2. Locate the reset button on the furnace.
  3. Press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds.
  4. Turn the power back on and set your thermostat to the desired temperature.

Still not working? Let the certified technicians at Eco Temp HVAC handle the job for you.

Do Electric Furnaces Have a Reset Button?

Yes, electric furnaces also have a reset button, typically located near the blower compartment. If your electric furnace won’t reset or continues to shut down, call our team for professional assistance. We offer reliable furnace repair services throughout the Chicagoland area.

Need Professional Help?

Resetting your furnace can solve minor issues, but repeated problems often signal a bigger issue. At Eco Temp HVAC, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing furnaces to keep your home warm and safe. Whether you’re in St. Charles, Chicago, or anywhere in between, our experts are here to help 24/7.

Call us today at (224) 253-8131 or schedule a service online. Let Eco Temp HVAC handle your furnace reset issues and ensure your system is running safely and efficiently.

HVAC Blog Categories & Tags

Eco Temp HVAC's mascot Breezy the Polar Bear dressed in a navy blue shirt and khaki shorts while holding a HVAC technician gauge.

24/7 Availability Always

We Put Your Comfort First!

Call the Chicagoland heating and cooling pros at Eco Temp HVAC today for all your residential and commercial heating and cooling needs. From smart thermostats to complex HVAC systems design, we do it all!

Call Us For Free Quote!

(224) 253-8131

OR
Request Service

Local Top-Rated HVAC Techs

Awards & Accreditations

You can always rely on us for top-quality services. We have a team of experienced and certified technicians who are dedicated to meeting your needs, no matter how big or small they may be! HVAC is a necessary part of every home, but sometimes it can be challenging to find someone who knows what they’re doing. That’s where we come in! We offer free quotes on all our services, so stop by or give us a call today and discover the ultimate comfort in your home once more, thanks to the pros at Eco Temp HVAC.

Get Started Now
Get Started Now

HVAC Services Near You

Proudly Serving Chicago and surrounding suburbs

Eco Temp HVAC stands as a beacon of excellence for furnace repair and comprehensive HVAC services in Chicago, Lemont, Palatine, Kirkland, St Charles, Downers Grove, Bartlett, and the Northwest Suburbs. Our seasoned technicians are adept at servicing a variety of heating systems, encompassing furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and beyond. Beyond just repairs, we’re proud to offer installation, maintenance, and replacement services, guaranteeing your HVAC systems deliver peak performance all year round. Our unwavering dedication to superior quality and unparalleled customer care solidifies our status as a trusted HVAC service pillar in the community.

Schedule Service Now