How to Use the American Standard Furnace Reset Button Safely and Effectively

The American Standard Furnace Reset Button is a small but important control used for troubleshooting certain furnace faults. This article explains where to find the reset button, when to use it, step-by-step reset procedures, safety precautions, common causes of trips, and when to call a professional. It helps homeowners restore heating quickly while avoiding damage or safety risks.

Issue	Quick Action	When To Call A Pro
Ignition Failure	Press reset once; wait 5 minutes	Repeats After 1 Reset
Blower Motor Trip	Turn off power, inspect, reset	Burning Smell Or Noisy Motor
Limit Switch Trip	Check airflow & filter, reset	Continued Overheating

What The American Standard Furnace Reset Button Is

The American Standard Furnace reset button is a manual control used to clear certain safety trips or faults on the furnace’s ignition or electrical systems. It is not a general “on/off” switch but a diagnostic reset for specific malfunction conditions. Using it resets the component’s safety circuit so the system can attempt to restart under normal conditions.

Where To Find The Reset Button On American Standard Furnaces

On most American Standard furnaces the reset button is located on the furnace control board or near the ignition module. It may be labeled “Reset”, “Ignition Reset”, or “Limit Reset.” Some models place it behind the service panel near the blower housing. Consult the owner’s manual for the exact location for a given model.

When It Is Appropriate To Use The Reset Button

Using the reset button is appropriate when a furnace fails to ignite or the control shows a fault code that specifically advises a manual reset. Typical scenarios include an ignition failure, a one-time electronic trip, or after clearing a safety condition such as an over-temperature event.

When Not To Press The Reset Button

The reset button should not be used repeatedly to mask a persistent fault. If pressing reset more than once or twice does not restore normal operation, stop and call a qualified HVAC technician. Repeated resets can stress components or override safety protections, potentially creating hazardous conditions.

Step-By-Step Guide To Resetting An American Standard Furnace

Safety First

Turn off the thermostat, switch the furnace to “Off,” and cut power at the service switch or circuit breaker before removing panels. Allow the unit to cool if overheated. Never attempt internal work with the power on.

Locate And Inspect

Remove the furnace access panel and locate the reset button on the control board or ignition module. Visually inspect the area for obvious issues such as loose wires, burnt connections, water, or debris.

Follow The Reset Procedure

Press the reset button firmly and hold according to the model instructions (typically one second). Release and restore power to the furnace. Set the thermostat to call for heat and observe the ignition sequence. Allow up to 5 minutes for the furnace to attempt start-up.

Observe And Verify

Watch for normal ignition: inducer motor, ignition spark or hot surface igniter, gas valve opening, flame sensor detecting flame, then blower operation. If the furnace restarts and operates normally, monitor it through one heat cycle.

Common Causes That Trigger The Reset Button

• Ignition System Failures: Faulty hot surface igniter, intermittent spark, or ignition control faults can cause the controller to lock out and require a reset.
• Flame Sensor Issues: A dirty or failing flame sensor may cause the control to shut down the gas valve as a safety measure.
• Limit Switch Trips: Restricted airflow due to a dirty filter or blocked vents can overheat the heat exchanger and trigger a limit switch.
• Blower Motor Or Capacitor Problems: Motor overloads or failed capacitors may trip thermal protection and require manual reset.
• Electrical Surges Or Power Interruptions: Brownouts or voltage spikes can cause the furnace control board to enter fault mode.

Troubleshooting Steps Before And After Resetting

Before resetting, check the air filter, return vents, and furnace condensate drainage on condensing models. Ensure the gas supply is on and the thermostat is set correctly. After a reset, if the furnace fails to restart, record any error codes or LED blink patterns from the control board.

Understanding Error Codes And LED Indicators

American Standard furnaces display diagnostic codes via LED flash patterns or an alphanumeric readout. These codes indicate issues like limit trips, pressure switch failures, ignition lockouts, or blower faults. Document the code and consult the manual or a technician to interpret the specific fault before repeated resets.

Safety Precautions And Risks Of Improper Resetting

Resetting a furnace incorrectly or repeatedly can lead to component damage, gas leaks, or unsafe combustion. Never bypass safety devices or modify wiring. If there is a smell of gas, buzzing electrical sounds, or visible damage, stop operation immediately and contact the gas company or an HVAC professional.

When To Call A Professional HVAC Technician

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if: the furnace does not restart after one reset; reset is required frequently; there is a burning smell, smoke, or visible sparking; error codes point to component failure; or any safety device repeatedly trips. Professionals can perform proper diagnostics with tools like multimeters, combustion analyzers, and pressure gauges.

Maintenance Tips To Minimize Resets And Faults

• Change air filters monthly during heavy use and at least every 3 months otherwise to maintain proper airflow.
• Keep vents and returns unobstructed to prevent overheating and limit trips.
• Schedule annual professional tune-ups to clean the flame sensor, inspect the ignition system, test safety switches, and verify safe combustion.
• Ensure the condensate drain on high-efficiency models is clear to avoid blockages that can trigger pressure switch faults.
• Install a surge protector on the furnace circuit if frequent power disturbances occur.

Model Differences And Owner’s Manual Importance

American Standard offers various furnace models and control boards, so the reset button location and behavior can vary. The owner’s manual contains model-specific procedures and diagnostic code charts. Always follow the manual for the particular model before attempting resets or repairs.

Cost Considerations For Repairs Related To Resets

Minor repairs like a new flame sensor or filter replacement are relatively low-cost. Ignition modules, control boards, or heat exchangers can be more expensive. If repeated resets point to a failing major component, compare repair costs with replacement, especially for older units with reduced efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Standard Furnace Reset Button

How Many Times Can The Reset Button Be Pressed?

It is acceptable to press the reset once or twice for a transient fault. Repeated presses more than two times without resolving the underlying issue are not recommended and indicate a need for professional service.

Will Pressing Reset Damage The Furnace?

A single, proper reset typically will not damage the furnace. However, repeated resetting to force operation while a fault persists may stress electronic controls, ignition components, or lead to unsafe conditions.

Is The Reset Button The Same As A Circuit Breaker?

No. The reset button resets specific furnace safety circuits or ignition control lockouts. A circuit breaker controls electrical supply and must not be used interchangeably with the reset function.

Does Reset Fix A No-Heat Condition Always?

No. Resetting only addresses certain lockouts and transient faults. No-heat can result from thermostat issues, gas supply problems, motor failures, or control board damage that require diagnostics and repair.

Key Takeaways For Homeowners

Use The Reset Button Sparingly And Safely: attempt one reset after basic checks (filter, vents, thermostat) and observe operation. Document error codes and avoid repeated resets. Schedule professional service when faults persist.

Regular Maintenance Prevents Many Resets: routine filter changes and annual professional tune-ups reduce ignition and limit switch trips, improving reliability and safety.

Know When To Call A Pro: persistent lockouts, electrical smells, or repeated trips warrant immediate professional assessment to prevent damage or hazards.

Action	Recommended Timing
Change Air Filter	Monthly During Winter
Annual Furnace Tune-Up	Before Heating Season
Reset Button Use	Once Or Twice Only Per Fault

Additional Resources And Manufacturer Support

American Standard provides model-specific manuals and technical support through authorized dealers. For complex diagnostics or warranty work, contact a licensed American Standard dealer or HVAC professional to ensure authorized parts and proper service.