Coleman Furnace Reset Button: How to Locate, Reset, and Troubleshoot

The Coleman furnace reset button can restore operation after a safety shutdown, but using it correctly avoids damage and safety risks. This article explains where the reset button is, safe reset procedures, common causes for trips, diagnostics, and when to call a professional. Follow safety first: always power off before servicing and consult a qualified HVAC technician for repeated resets.

Issue	Quick Action	When To Call Technician
Single Trip	Power off 5 minutes, locate and press reset once	If it trips again
Repeated Trips	Check filters, vents, and flame sensor	If no improvement or error codes present
No Heat But Blower Runs	Inspect ignition, pilot, and gas supply	Gas odor or persistent no-ignite

What The Coleman Furnace Reset Button Is And Why It Exists

The reset button is a manual safety control that restores power to certain furnace components after a safety shutdown. It may be labeled “reset,” “limit,” or “manual reset” depending on the model. It prevents repeated automatic restarts that could create hazardous conditions such as overheating, ignition failures, or gas buildup.

Manufacturers include a reset to ensure a human checks the system before restarting, reducing the risk of damage or unsafe operation. Not all Coleman models have a visible reset button; some use electronic control boards with internal resets.

Where To Find The Reset Button On A Coleman Furnace

Common reset locations include the lower access panel, near the blower housing, or on the gas valve assembly. Some models place the reset inside the burner compartment behind a service panel. Check the furnace owner’s manual for precise location.

If the manual is unavailable, follow these steps safely: turn off power at the breaker, remove the front access panel, and inspect around the blower, burner, and gas valve areas for a small red or black button labeled “reset” or “limit.”

How To Safely Reset A Coleman Furnace

Step 1: Turn Off Power — Switch off the furnace at the service switch or circuit breaker before opening panels.

Step 2: Wait Briefly — Allow two to five minutes for internal components to cool and any residual gas to dissipate.

Step 3: Locate The Reset Button — Identify the reset button. It often requires a firm press for one to three seconds.

Step 4: Press Once — Press and release the reset button. Avoid multiple presses; repeated pushing can bypass safety features and cause damage.

Step 5: Restore Power And Observe — Turn power back on and monitor the furnace for normal ignition and operation for several minutes. If the furnace trips again, turn it off and proceed to diagnostics or call a technician.

Common Reasons The Reset Button Trips

1. Dirty Air Filter — Restricted airflow causes overheating and triggers safety limits. Replace or clean filters regularly.

2. Blocked Vents or Returns — Closed or obstructed registers reduce airflow and can cause high temperatures in the heat exchanger.

3. Blower Motor Problems — A failing blower or capacitor can reduce airflow or stall, leading to trips.

4. Ignition Or Flame Sensor Failures — Repeated ignition failures can cause the control board to lock out and require a manual reset.

5. Limit Switch Or High Limit Failure — The limit switch detects excessive temperature; a defective switch or actual overheating will cause trips.

6. Gas Supply Or Gas Valve Issues — Low gas pressure, a closed gas valve, or faulty valve can prevent ignition and cause lockouts.

7. Control Board Or Wiring Faults — Electrical failures, loose connections, or a faulty control board can create intermittent shutdowns.

Diagnostic Steps Before Resetting Repeatedly

Repeated resets indicate an underlying issue that requires diagnosis. Follow these checks before attempting another reset.

• Inspect and replace the air filter if dirty.
• Ensure supply and return vents are open and unobstructed.
• Check the condensate drain and trap for clogs on high-efficiency units.
• Visually inspect burners and flame sensor for soot or corrosion; clean gently with fine steel wool if necessary.
• Listen for unusual noises from the blower motor or inducer fan that suggest mechanical failure.
• Scan the furnace control board for LED error codes or diagnostic displays and note any flashing sequences to identify faults.

Cleaning And Minor Repairs Homeowners Can Safely Do

Simple maintenance can resolve many reset-related trips. Only perform tasks with power off and basic safety precautions.

• Replace or clean air filters every 1–3 months depending on usage and home conditions.
• Vacuum dust from access panels, blower housing, and base of the furnace using a soft brush attachment.
• Clean the flame sensor by removing it and gently polishing the rod with fine emery cloth or steel wool.
• Clear registers and returns of furniture or drapes that obstruct airflow.
• Check the exterior vent termination for debris or nesting that could restrict exhaust or intake.

When Not To Press The Reset Button

There are situations where resetting is unsafe or will not solve the problem. Never reset under these conditions.

• If there is a smell of gas — evacuate, shut off the gas at the meter if trained, and call the gas company and an HVAC pro.
• If the furnace has visible overheating, cracked heat exchanger, or flame roll-out signs.
• If electrical arcing, burning smells, or smoke is present.
• After three or more resets within a short period — this indicates a persistent fault requiring professional service.

Understanding Error Codes And Control Board Diagnostics

Modern Coleman furnaces often include LED diagnostic lights or digital error codes on the control board. These codes can point directly to the fault that caused the reset need.

Common indicators include codes for flame failure, pressure switch faults, limit circuit trips, or inducer motor issues. Consult the furnace’s documentation to decode sequences. Photographing the LEDs or codes helps technicians diagnose remotely when calling for service.

When To Call A Professional HVAC Technician

Call a licensed HVAC technician if the furnace continues to trip after basic checks, if there are control board error codes, or when dealing with gas or electrical problems.

Professional service is also required for heat exchanger inspection (cracked heat exchangers can leak carbon monoxide), control board replacement, gas valve repairs, and complex inducer or blower motor replacements.

Preventive Maintenance To Avoid Future Trips

Regular maintenance reduces reset incidents and prolongs furnace life. Follow a schedule and consider an annual professional tune-up.

• Replace filters regularly and use the correct MERV rating for the furnace design.
• Schedule annual inspections that include combustion analysis, heat exchanger check, and safety control tests.
• Keep the furnace area clean, dry, and free from storage that can restrict airflow.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and on each level of the home.
• Consider a maintenance agreement with an HVAC contractor for seasonal service and priority repairs.

Replacement Parts And Cost Considerations

Typical parts associated with reset trips include limit switches, flame sensors, ignition modules, inducer motors, and control boards. Costs vary widely by model and region.

Part	Typical Replacement Range
Air Filter	$10–$60
Flame Sensor	$30–$120
Limit Switch	$40–$150
Ignition Module	$100–$350
Control Board	$150–$600+

Labor costs depend on complexity and local rates; obtain written estimates for major repairs. For safety-critical parts like the heat exchanger, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair for older systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Times Can The Reset Button Be Pressed?

Manufacturers intend a single reset press after troubleshooting and a cooldown. Repeated presses without diagnosing the cause can damage controls and bypass safety features.

Is The Reset Button The Same As A Circuit Breaker?

No. The reset button is a furnace safety control. It differs from circuit breakers, which protect against electrical overloads. Both may need checking when a furnace won’t power on.

Can Homeowners Replace A Faulty Reset Switch?

Minor replacements like a visible limit switch can be performed by a knowledgeable homeowner following safety protocols, but most replaceable safety controls should be installed by a licensed technician to ensure correct calibration and safety compliance.

What If The Furnace Smells Like Gas After Reset?

Stop immediately, shut off the furnace and gas supply if trained, ventilate the area, evacuate occupants, and contact the gas company and an HVAC professional. Do not attempt to restart the furnace.

Key Takeaways For Safe Reset And Reliable Operation

Locate the reset button using the manual or safe inspection. Reset only after power-off cooldown and basic checks. Troubleshoot airflow, ignition, and error codes before pressing multiple resets. Call a technician if trips repeat, if gas is suspected, or for major electrical or heat exchanger issues.