Heil Furnace Reset Button: How to Find, Use, and Troubleshoot It

The Heil furnace reset button is a safety and troubleshooting feature that helps restore a furnace after overloads or motor protection trips. This guide explains where the reset button is located, step-by-step reset procedures, common causes for trips, diagnostic tips, and when to call a technician. It emphasizes safety and practical troubleshooting to help homeowners and technicians address issues efficiently.

Topic	Quick Summary
Reset Button Purpose	Protects blower or control circuits and allows manual restart after trip
Typical Location	Inside blower access panel, near the motor or on control box
Basic Reset Steps	Turn off power, wait, press reset, restore power, observe
When Not To Reset	Repeated trips, burning smell, visible damage—call pro

What The Heil Furnace Reset Button Does

The Heil furnace reset button functions as a manual reset for built-in safety devices such as the blower motor thermal protector, high-limit switches, or internal circuit protection on older furnaces. When an overcurrent, overheating, or mechanical fault occurs, the protector trips to prevent damage or fire. Pressing the reset restores the circuit only after the underlying condition has cooled or been cleared.

Key Point: Resetting Does Not Fix The Root Cause; It Only Restarts The System After A Trip.

Where To Find The Reset Button On Heil Furnaces

Heil models vary, so the reset button location depends on the unit type (floor furnace, upflow, downflow, or split system). Common locations include inside the blower compartment, on the motor housing, or on the control box behind the main access panel. Some newer systems have electronic controls and no external manual reset.

To access the reset button: turn off electrical power at the breaker, remove the furnace access panel, and inspect the blower motor area and control box for a small recessed or protruding button labeled “reset” or “protect.” If unsure, consult the furnace’s model-specific manual or the Heil product literature.

Step-By-Step: How To Safely Reset A Heil Furnace

Following safe steps reduces risk and helps determine whether the trip was a one-off event or a sign of an ongoing issue.

1. Turn Off Power: Switch off the furnace at the thermostat, then turn off the dedicated circuit breaker or disconnect switch. Confirm power is off using a non-contact voltage tester if available.
2. Wait: Allow at least 5–10 minutes for components to cool and any residual charge to dissipate.
3. Open Access Panel: Remove the furnace cabinet or blower compartment panel following manufacturer instructions. Keep panels and screws organized.
4. Locate Reset Button: Find the button on the motor, control box, or internal protector. It may be recessed and require a pen tip to press.
5. Press Reset: Firmly press the button once. Do not press repeatedly or hold it for extended periods.
6. Reassemble and Restore Power: Replace panels, turn on the breaker, and set the thermostat to call for heat or blower operation.
7. Observe Operation: Watch the furnace through at least two complete cycles. Listen for unusual noises, watch for repeated trips, and check for error codes or indicator lights.

Common Reasons The Reset Button Trips

Understanding why the reset trips helps identify corrective actions. Typical causes include restricted airflow, failing blower motor, clogged filters, blocked vents, electrical issues, and age-related component wear.

• Dirty Air Filter Or Blocked Vents: Reduced airflow causes overheating and motor stress.
• Blower Motor Overload Or Failure: Worn bearings, seized motor, or electrical winding faults can trip thermal protectors.
• Overloaded Circuit Or Short: Loose connections, damaged wiring, or aged capacitors create electrical faults.
• Poor Ventilation Or High Static Pressure: Duct restrictions, closed dampers, or oversized filters increase motor load.
• Control Board Or Relay Failure: Faulty relays or control modules may cause repeated trips or no-start conditions.

Troubleshooting Steps If The Reset Button Won’t Stay Reset

If the button trips again immediately or soon after resetting, further diagnostics are required. Repeated trips indicate an unresolved fault that resetting alone will not correct.

1. Check Airflow: Replace the air filter and ensure return and supply vents are open and unobstructed.
2. Inspect Motor And Blower Wheel: Look for debris, loose belts (if applicable), or signs of motor overheating such as discoloration or burning smell.
3. Measure Voltage: Verify proper supply voltage at the furnace and motor terminals using a multimeter. Low voltage or imbalanced phases (in larger systems) stresses motors.
4. Examine Wiring And Connections: Tighten loose terminals and look for burnt or melted insulation indicating overheating.
5. Check Capacitor And Start Components: A weak or failed start/run capacitor can cause excessive motor current draw and trips.
6. Review Error Codes: Many Heil units display diagnostic flashes or codes on the control board LED. Cross-reference with the manual.

When To Stop Resetting And Call A Professional

Repeated resets, burning smells, smoke, visible damage, or electrical sparking require immediate professional service. Continuing to reset under these conditions risks equipment damage and safety hazards.

Call A Licensed HVAC Technician If: The furnace trips repeatedly, shows error codes outside normal operation, produces unusual noises, or if the motor feels hot to the touch after cooling.

Replacement Parts And Long-Term Fixes

Some resets result from component failure that requires replacement rather than repeated manual resets. Common repairs include replacing the blower motor, capacitor, control board, or high-limit switch.

• Blower Motor Replacement: Motors nearing end of life should be replaced with OEM-equivalent Heil motors or approved aftermarket units to maintain compatibility.
• Capacitor Replacement: Capacitors are affordable and often resolve start/run issues, improving motor reliability and efficiency.
• Control Board Repair/Replacement: Faulty relays or sensor circuits on the control board may necessitate board replacement.
• High-Limit Switch And Safety Devices: Replace if repeatedly tripping after airflow and electrical causes are addressed.

Preventive Maintenance To Avoid Reset Trips

Routine maintenance reduces trips and extends furnace life. A proactive approach keeps components cool and operating within design limits.

• Change Filters Regularly: Replace or clean filters every 1–3 months depending on use and filter type.
• Annual Professional Tune-Up: Have a licensed HVAC technician inspect motor current, belts, bearings, controls, and combustion if applicable.
• Keep Vents Clear: Maintain clear return and supply air pathways and check insulation on ducts to prevent excessive static pressure.
• Monitor Electrical Supply: Ensure the circuit breaker and wiring are in good condition and sized correctly for the furnace amperage.

Model Variations And Control Differences

Older Heil furnaces commonly used a physical reset on the motor protector. Newer models use electronic controls with diagnostic LEDs and no external reset button. For models with no visible reset, troubleshooting focuses on control board diagnostics and error codes.

When using model-specific guidance, locate the exact Heil model number on the furnace data plate and consult the installation and service manual. Manuals provide wiring diagrams, LED code charts, and component locations useful for accurate diagnostics.

Safety Tips And Best Practices

Safety is paramount when working with gas or electric furnaces. Never attempt repairs beyond basic diagnostics unless trained and properly equipped.

• Always Turn Off Power: Before opening panels, switch off the breaker and verify power removal.
• Avoid Repeated Resets: Multiple resets without addressing the cause can damage components or create fire risk.
• Watch For Gas Odors: If a gas smell is present, leave the area immediately and call the gas company or emergency services.
• Use Proper Tools: Use insulated tools and a multimeter for electrical checks; store panels and fasteners properly.

Cost Considerations For Repairs And Replacements

Repair costs vary depending on the failed component and labor rates. Simple parts like capacitors and filters are inexpensive, while blower motors and control boards can be significantly more costly.

Repair	Typical Cost Range (Parts + Labor)
Filter Replacement	$15–$75
Capacitor Replacement	$80–$200
Blower Motor Replacement	$300–$900
Control Board Replacement	$200–$700

Frequently Asked Questions About The Heil Furnace Reset Button

Why Did The Reset Button Trip In The First Place?

The reset trips due to overheating, overcurrent, or motor overload. The specific cause is usually restricted airflow, motor issues, or electrical faults that increase load and heat.

Is It Safe To Press The Reset Button Right Away?

No. It Is Important To Turn Off Power And Wait For Cooling Before Pressing The Reset. Immediate Resetting May Damage Components If The Underlying Problem Persists.

Can A Homeowner Replace A Blower Motor?

While A Skilled Homeowner With Mechanical And Electrical Experience May Replace A Motor, It Is Recommended To Use A Licensed HVAC Technician To Ensure Correct Sizing, Wiring, And Safe Operation.

How Often Should Maintenance Be Performed To Prevent Trips?

Annual Professional Maintenance And Filter Checks Every 1–3 Months Are Recommended. Regular Inspections Help Catch Issues Before A Reset Trip Occurs.

Resources And Where To Find Manuals Or Support

Heil product manuals, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting guides are available on the manufacturer’s website and through HVAC service portals. Model-specific documentation provides LED code charts and component locations that are invaluable for diagnosis.

Contacting Heil customer support or a local licensed HVAC contractor can provide expert assistance for ambiguous faults or major repairs. Always verify the contractor’s license and credentials before scheduling work.

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