Arcoaire Furnace Reset Button: How to Locate, Use, and Troubleshoot

The Arcoaire furnace reset button is a small safety feature that can help restart a furnace after an overload or safety trip. This article explains where to find the reset button, safe reset procedures, common causes of trips, troubleshooting steps, and when to call a professional technician. It aims to give practical, reliable guidance for homeowners managing Arcoaire heating systems.

Topic	Key Points
Locate Reset Button	On blower motor or control panel; red or black button
Reset Procedure	Power off, wait, press button once, restore power
Common Causes	Motor overload, dirty filters, blocked vents, electrical issues
Troubleshooting Steps	Inspect filter, vents, capacitor, motor, wiring
When To Call A Pro	Repeated trips, burning smell, no heat after reset

What Is The Arcoaire Furnace Reset Button

The Arcoaire furnace reset button is a manual safety switch designed to protect components such as the blower motor or control board from overheating or electrical overload. It is typically located on the blower motor housing or the furnace cabinet and is often red, but can be black. The reset button is not a normal operation control; it is meant for occasional use after an overload event.

Where To Locate The Reset Button On Arcoaire Furnaces

The reset button location varies by model. For many Arcoaire furnaces the button is mounted directly on the blower motor, accessible by removing the blower compartment access panel. On some models a small push button may be on the main control board or on an external motor relay housing.

Common locations: inside blower compartment, near motor junction box, or on the control board. Always disconnect electrical power before removing access panels to avoid shock or injury.

When To Press The Furnace Reset Button

The reset button should be pressed only after the root cause of the trip has been addressed or inspected. Typical scenarios include after a motor overload due to a blocked filter, closed vents, or short power interruption. Pressing the button without diagnosing the issue may mask an underlying fault.

Press the reset button if: the furnace stopped abruptly and there are no burning smells, no visible electrical damage, and the fan or motor shows signs of an overload trip. If the button trips repeatedly, stop using the reset and call a technician.

Step-By-Step Safe Reset Procedure

1. Turn off the thermostat and switch the furnace power to OFF at the service switch or breaker. This prevents the furnace from attempting to run during inspection.

2. Remove the access panel to expose the blower motor area. Inspect for debris, visible wiring damage, or obstructions. Check the air filter and replace if dirty.

3. Locate the reset button on the motor housing or control area. Press it once and release. Do not hold the button down for extended periods.

4. Restore power to the furnace and set the thermostat to call for heat. Observe operation for unusual noises, smoke, or immediate trips. If normal, monitor the furnace during the next heating cycle.

Common Causes Of Furnace Reset Button Trips

Motor Overload: Overheating due to blocked airflow or a failing motor causes the motor’s internal overload to trip. Dirty filters and closed vents are frequent contributors.

Electrical Issues: Loose wiring, short circuits, or a failing capacitor can create excessive current draw and trigger the reset button.

Blower Motor Failure: Worn bearings or seizing can increase motor load. Persistent motor issues require replacement or repair.

Control Board Or Relay Faults: Malfunctioning relays or control board components can falsely signal overloads or create unsafe operating conditions.

Troubleshooting Checklist Before Pressing Reset

Inspect And Replace Air Filter: A clogged filter can restrict airflow and overheat the motor. Always replace filters on a regular schedule.

Check Venting And Registers: Ensure supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Look for blocked ducts or closed dampers.

Look For Visible Damage: Burn marks, melted wiring insulation, or a persistent burning smell indicate serious electrical problems. Do not press the reset button if these are present.

Test Power Supply: Verify the furnace has correct voltage and the breaker or switch isn’t tripping repeatedly. Use a multimeter only if qualified; otherwise consult a technician.

Diagnosing Motor And Electrical Problems

Capacitor Testing: A failing capacitor can prevent the blower from starting and cause overload trips. Diagnosis typically requires a multimeter with capacitance testing or a qualified HVAC technician.

Motor Bearings And Noise: Grinding or squealing noises from the blower motor suggest bearing wear. Continuing to run a motor with bad bearings can cause rapid failure and repeated reset trips.

Wiring And Relay Inspection: Loose terminals and corroded connections can create heat and intermittent faults. Tighten connections and replace damaged wires or relays if necessary.

When The Reset Button Keeps Tripping: Advanced Causes

Incorrect Blower Motor Sizing Or Modulation Issues: If the motor or control is mismatched or a variable-speed motor is failing, it can overload under normal conditions.

Clogged Heat Exchanger Or Flue Issues: Restricted exhaust can cause high temperatures and safety devices to trip. Combustion-related trips require immediate professional attention.

Control Board Faults: Intermittent circuit faults or failed sensors on the control board can erroneously cause resets. Board replacement may be needed.

Safety Precautions And Best Practices

Always Turn Off Power: Use the furnace service switch or breaker before accessing the blower compartment to avoid shock or injury.

Avoid Repeated Resets: Repeatedly pressing the reset button without addressing the cause is unsafe and can damage the motor or control components.

Use Proper Replacement Parts: If parts need replacing, use OEM or approved aftermarket components to maintain safety and performance standards.

When To Call A Professional HVAC Technician

Call a professional if the reset button trips more than once, if there is smoke or burning odors, or if the furnace will not operate after a reset. Technicians can perform safe electrical testing, motor diagnostics, and control board evaluations.

Hire certified HVAC professionals for complex issues like capacitor replacement, motor swap, or control board repairs to ensure compliance with codes and warranty requirements.

Replacement And Repair Options For Arcoaire Furnaces

Blower Motor Replacement: If the motor is failing, replacement is often the most cost-effective long-term solution. Matching motor specifications (HP, RPM, voltage, and mounting) is crucial.

Control Board Replacement: A failed control board that causes repeated trips may need replacement. Ensure the new board is compatible with the Arcoaire model and sequencer functions.

Upgrading To Variable-Speed Motors: In some cases upgrading to a properly sized variable-speed blower improves efficiency and reduces stress on components, but it must be compatible with existing controls.

Common Questions About Arcoaire Furnace Reset Button

How Often Can One Reset The Furnace? Resetting should be rare. If required often, it signals persistent faults that need professional diagnosis.

Will Pressing Reset Void The Warranty? Pressing the reset button for its intended safety purpose does not void the warranty, but improper repairs or using non-compatible parts might affect coverage.

Is The Reset Button The Same As A Circuit Breaker? No. The reset button is a local motor overload or safety switch, distinct from the home’s electrical breaker or the furnace’s main disconnect.

Maintenance Tips To Prevent Reset Trips

Regular Filter Changes: Replace filters every 1–3 months depending on use and filter type. Good filtration reduces motor strain.

Annual Professional Tune-Ups: Schedule yearly HVAC inspections to catch wear, test capacitors, and verify motor health.

Keep Vents And Returns Clear: Ensure furniture, rugs, or stored items do not block airflow into returns or supply vents.

Parts And Resources For Arcoaire Furnace Owners

OEM Parts: Use authorized Amana/Arcoaire parts for replacements. Model and serial numbers on the furnace label help ensure correct part selection.

Manuals And Schematics: Furnace manuals contain wiring diagrams and component locations. Retain the manual or download a copy for accurate troubleshooting.

Professional Support: HVAC contractors who are experienced with Arcoaire/Amana systems can provide model-specific insights and warranty support.

Key Takeaways For Homeowners

The Arcoaire furnace reset button is a protective device, not a routine control. Use it sparingly and only after basic inspections like checking filters and vents. Repeated trips indicate a deeper issue that requires professional diagnosis to avoid damage and safety risks.

Frequently Asked Troubleshooting Steps (Quick Reference)

• Turn Off Power: Use service switch or breaker before opening panels.
• Check Filter: Replace if dirty.
• Inspect Vents: Ensure supply and return are open and unobstructed.
• Press Reset: Press once after inspection, then restore power.
• Observe Operation: Watch for noises, smells, or immediate trips.
• Call A Technician: If the problem recurs or signs of electrical damage are present.

Useful Links And Resources

Amana/Arcoaire Official Support for manuals, parts, and owner resources. ASHRAE provides standards and best practices for HVAC safety and performance.