If you’ve ever asked an IT professional why your computer isn’t working, they may have responded with a question: “Have you tried restarting it?” Like many appliances around your house, air conditioners are getting smarter and sometimes require a good old-fashioned reset. Even older models that suddenly stop working can benefit from a reset, especially after a power outage.

How to Reset an Air Conditioner

  1. Power down your AC. Start at your circuit breaker panel and flip the breaker that powers your AC. Also, flip the power switch your AC unit is connected to outside to the off position.
  2. Find the button. Most air conditioning units are equipped with a reset button. These buttons tend to be red and quite small. If you’re having a tough time finding it, consult your owner’s manual. (If you can’t find it, most are published online for quick reference).
  3. Hold down the reset button for 3 to 5 seconds and then release.
  4. Restore power to your AC. Flip all switches, including the one in your breaker panel to the on position.

You’ve successfully completed a reset! Next, go to your thermostat and make sure it’s set to “cool” and a temperature that’s lower than the current temperature inside your home. After a few seconds, your air conditioner should start up. Place your hand by the vents to confirm that cold air is blowing through your ductwork.

Finding Reset Button on AC Units

Typically, this button is small and red, situated on or near the unit. Look for the clearly labeled 'reset' button. Upon locating it, press the button for approximately three seconds and monitor the air conditioner. Verify if the AC starts operating immediately; if not, press the button again for an additional three seconds. Your AC should emit three beeps and restart promptly.

If you are having difficulty finding your air conditioner unit reset button, review the manufacturer's manual or search online to identify the reset button's placement on your particular model.

Why Do I Need to Reset My Air Conditioner?

The most common reason for an AC unit requiring a reset is when the protection circuit breaker in your AC unit kicks in. This typically happens after a power outage and is in place to prevent fires and explosions. A reset can also correct an AC that’s only blowing warm air, even when the thermostat is set to “cool.” There are a handful of reasons your AC could be blowing warm air, but one of them is a general thermostat error. Sometimes a hard reset of your AC can solve that problem.

While resetting an air conditioner is an easy task, if you are uncertain or uncomfortable, please contact an HVAC professional to assist by requesting an appointment with One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning. As a final precautionary note, accessing your resent button may require you to open your condensing unit plan and with certain units, this could impact your warranty. Please check your warranty guidelines before attempting to reset your air conditioner. If you are familiar with your AC unit and comfortable moving forward, follow the simple instructions below. 

How to Reset a Window Air Conditioner

Since most window air conditioners do not have a reset button, you’ll need to unplug it for a few minutes to dissipate the charge.

After plugging it back in and turning the circuit back on, the window AC unit should reset and be operational again.

AC Reset Button Not Working? Call One Hour

When the reset doesn’t seem to be working, it’s time to contact the HVAC professionals at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning.