Goodman Heat Pump Reset Button: Locate, Use, and Troubleshoot Safely

Goodman Heat Pump Reset Button often refers to a manual reset or overload on the outdoor compressor, a service switch inside the disconnect, or electronic resets on control boards. This article explains where the reset is typically found, how to safely attempt a reset, common causes for trips, step‑by‑step troubleshooting, and when professional service is required.

Reset Location	Typical Action	When To Call A Pro
Outdoor Unit Disconnect/Service Switch	Toggle off/on after 5 minutes	If trips again or no power
Compressor Internal Overload (Red Button)	Press once; may be non‑resettable if faulty	If it doesn’t reset or immediately re‑trips
Air Handler Control Board Reset	Power cycle thermostat and breaker	Control board fault codes persist

How Goodman Heat Pump Reset Buttons Are Designed

Manufacturers use different protective devices to prevent compressor damage. Manual reset buttons are sometimes located on the compressor or control box and require a push to restore operation. Other systems use automatic electronic resets or fuses and circuit breakers. Goodman models commonly include a service disconnect on the outdoor unit and internal thermal overloads in the compressor motor.

Where To Look For The Reset Button

The reset or reset method depends on the model and whether the trip was electrical or refrigeration related. Common locations include:

• Outdoor unit disconnect box mounted on or near the condenser—may contain a fused pull‑out or a switch labeled “Service.”
• Condenser access panel—inside the metal control compartment, often near the contactor or control terminals.
• Compressor terminal cover—some compressors have an internal thermal overload with a small red reset button under the compressor terminal cover.
• Air handler or control board—some control boards have diagnostic LEDs and reset functions accessed by power cycling the unit or using a dedicated reset button.

Safety First: Preparations Before Attempting Any Reset

Resetting without isolating power or diagnosing the cause risks injury or equipment damage. Before any action: power off the heat pump at the thermostat and outdoor disconnect, wear safety glasses and gloves, and confirm power is off using a multimeter if qualified to do so. If uncertainty exists, contact a licensed HVAC technician.

Step‑By‑Step Reset Procedure

1. Basic Power Cycle

Power cycling often clears control faults. Turn the thermostat to OFF, shut off the outdoor disconnect, and switch off the HVAC breaker at the main panel. Wait at least five minutes before restoring power to allow capacitors to discharge and safety devices to reset.

2. Reset At The Outdoor Disconnect

Open the outdoor disconnect. If it contains a fused pullout, remove and inspect fuses for blown elements. If the disconnect is a switch, toggle it fully off and then on after five minutes. Replace blown fuses with proper type and amp rating only.

3. Compressor Internal Reset Button

If the compressor has a red reset button inside the terminal box, remove the terminal box cover and press the button once. If the button does not stay depressed or pops out again immediately, do not attempt repeated resets. That behavior indicates an internal compressor fault.

4. Control Board Reset

Some Goodman air handlers have a control board that stores fault codes. Power cycling the unit can clear transient codes. After restoring power, observe LED fault indicators. Note any error codes and consult the service manual or a technician.

Diagnosing Why The Reset Was Tripped

Reset trips rarely happen without a cause. Common triggers include electrical faults, refrigerant issues, clogged coils, blocked airflow, or mechanical failures. Systematic diagnosis improves safety and reduces repeat trips.

• Tripped Breaker Or Blown Fuse: Often caused by short circuits, locked rotor on the compressor, failing capacitor, or contactor welding shut.
• High‑Pressure Trip: Caused by overcharge, poor airflow across the outdoor coil, or condenser fan failure.
• Low‑Pressure Or Loss Of Charge: Refrigerant leaks or stuck metering devices can cause the compressor to overheat and trip.
• Electrical Component Failure: Failed run capacitors, contactors, or control boards create high current draw and overload conditions.

Troubleshooting Checklist

Symptom	Likely Cause	Quick Test
Outdoor Unit Dead	Tripped breaker, disconnect off, blown fuse	Check breaker and disconnect, test fuses
Unit Starts Then Trips	Locked rotor, failing capacitor, shorted winding	Measure amp draw, inspect capacitor
Reset Button Won’t Hold	Internal compressor fault or severe electrical issue	Do not repeatedly press; call tech
Unit Trips On High Pressure	Dirty condenser, fan failure, refrigerant overcharge	Visual coil/fan check and refrigerant assessment

Electrical Components To Inspect

When a reset trips, several electrical parts commonly warrant inspection. Capacitors degrade and cause motor start issues; contactors wear and can weld; wiring and terminals can overheat and fail. A qualified technician should test motor amp draw, capacitor microfarads, contactor continuity, and control voltages.

Refrigerant And Airflow Issues That Cause Trips

Poor airflow through the outdoor coil or low refrigerant can lead to inefficient heat transfer and compressor overheating. Signs include icing on the coil, reduced heating/cooling performance, and repeated trips under load. Cleaning coils and checking refrigerant charge should be done by a certified HVAC technician to comply with EPA regulations.

What If The Reset Button Keeps Tripping?

Repeated trips indicate a persistent fault. Continuing to reset the device without diagnosis risks major compressor damage. If the reset trips again after a proper power cycle and brief inspection, the next steps should include checking run capacitor health, compressor winding resistance and insulation, contactor condition, and performing a refrigerant leak and system pressure assessment.

When The Reset Is Non‑Resettable

Some compressor overloads are non‑resettable or show internal damage that requires compressor replacement. If the internal manual reset is missing or the compressor exhibits burned smells, unusual noises, or metal debris in the terminal box, the compressor may be failed and needs professional evaluation for replacement options and cost estimates.

Parts And Costs Overview

Common replacement parts and rough cost considerations: run capacitor ($50–$200 installed), contactor ($75–$200), control board ($150–$600), and compressor (variable, often $1,000+ installed). Labor and local market rates influence total cost. A diagnostic visit typically costs $75–$150 depending on region.

Preventive Maintenance To Reduce Reset Trips

Regular maintenance reduces electrical loads and refrigerant‑related stress. Recommended tasks include replacing air filters every 1–3 months, cleaning outdoor coils yearly, inspecting electrical connections annually, checking capacitors and contactors before peak seasons, and scheduling a professional tune‑up each year.

Goodman Model Variations And Documentation

Goodman heat pumps come in several series and configurations. Model‑specific manuals and wiring diagrams specify reset locations and fault codes. For accurate diagnostics, reference the unit’s model and the Goodman technical literature or the service tag inside the cabinet for electrical schematics and control board fault descriptions.

When To Call A Licensed HVAC Technician

Professional service is recommended when the reset does not hold, electrical tests are abnormal, the compressor shows signs of failure, refrigerant work is required, or safety concerns are present. Licensed technicians carry the necessary tools and EPA certification for refrigerant handling and can provide safe, code‑compliant repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can A Homeowner Press The Reset Button?

A homeowner may perform a basic power cycle and press an accessible manual reset only if the unit is de‑energized and the homeowner is comfortable with basic electrical safety. If the reset repeatedly trips or if access requires removing electrical covers, a technician should perform the work.

Does A Tripped Reset Mean The Compressor Is Bad?

Not always. A reset trip can indicate transient overload, poor airflow, low refrigerant, or a failing capacitor. However, repeated or non‑resettable trips often point to compressor damage or imminent failure and require professional diagnosis.

How Long Should One Wait To Reset?

Waiting five minutes is a common minimum to allow thermal devices and capacitors to discharge and cool. If the system was hot or heavily loaded, waiting ten to fifteen minutes provides additional safety before re‑energizing.

Key Takeaways

Locate the reset at the outdoor disconnect, inside the condenser control compartment, or under the compressor terminal cover on some models. Power cycle first, inspect fuses, and only press an internal reset button once. If the reset trips repeatedly, electrical or refrigerant faults are likely. Safety and proper diagnosis reduce the risk of major failures; call a licensed HVAC professional when in doubt.

Resources And Further Reading

• Goodman Manufacturing Official Site for manuals and support.
• ASHRAE Guidance for HVAC standards and best practices.
• EPA Section 608 for refrigerant handling requirements.