How to Use the Honeywell Furnace Reset Button Safely

The Honeywell furnace reset button is a simple safety feature that can resolve short-term furnace lockouts caused by power interruptions or minor faults. This article explains what the Honeywell furnace reset button does, when to press it, step-by-step reset instructions, safety precautions, troubleshooting when a reset does not solve the problem, and maintenance tips to reduce future resets.

Issue	Quick Action	When To Call A Pro
Short power surge or lockout	Press reset once, wait 30 min	No restart after 2 attempts
Frequent resets	Inspect air filter, vents	Repeated trips or error codes
Smell of gas or smoke	Evacuate and call utility	Immediately

What The Honeywell Furnace Reset Button Is And How It Works

The Honeywell furnace reset button is typically a manual push-button or recessed button on the furnace control panel that clears certain safety lockouts or fault conditions. It is not a universal diagnostic tool but a mechanical/electronic way to tell the control board to attempt a restart after a condition interrupts normal operation.

Important: The reset button does not fix underlying mechanical or electrical problems; it only attempts to restart the furnace control sequence.

Common Locations On Honeywell Furnaces

On many gas furnaces the reset or “manual reset” button is located near the blower motor, on the control box, or near the burner assembly. Some modern Honeywell control boards use an LED fault code system rather than a labeled reset button.

Check the furnace access panel and the owner’s manual. If the button is recessed, a small screwdriver or pen tip may be needed to press it, but only access the panel after shutting power off if required by the model.

When To Press The Honeywell Furnace Reset Button

Press the Honeywell furnace reset button only when the furnace has shut down due to a transient issue such as a power surge, short outage, or a single ignition failure. It should be used as a troubleshooting step, not a routine fix.

Do not press the reset if there is a persistent gas smell, visible flame irregularities, smoke, or repeated shutdowns. Those signs indicate a serious problem that requires professional service.

Step-By-Step Guide To Reset A Honeywell Furnace

1. Safety First

Turn off the furnace switch or the dedicated circuit breaker before removing any access panels. Confirm that the furnace is isolated from power to avoid electrical shock or accidental fan start.

2. Inspect For Obvious Issues

Look for a clogged air filter, blocked vents, or visible debris near the burner or blower. Correcting airflow or obstruction issues may resolve the shutdown without needing a reset.

3. Locate The Reset Button

Find the Honeywell furnace reset button on the control box. It may be labeled “Reset,” “Manual Reset,” or be a small unmarked button recessed in the panel. Refer to the furnace label or manual for exact placement.

4. Press And Wait

Press the reset button firmly once and release. After pressing, restore power to the furnace and allow up to 30 minutes for normal operation and safety checks. Some systems lock out for a period before restarting.

5. Monitor Operation

Watch for normal ignition, burner operation, and steady blower function. Listen for unusual noises and check for error codes or flashing LEDs on the control board that indicate specific faults.

Safety Precautions When Using The Reset Button

Never repeatedly press the Honeywell furnace reset button more than two times. Repeated resets can indicate an unresolved hazardous condition and may temporarily bypass safety features.

If there is any smell of gas, smell of burning components, or visible smoke, evacuate the area and call the gas utility or 911. Do not attempt to reset the furnace in those conditions.

Troubleshooting If Reset Doesn’t Restore Operation

If pressing the reset button does not restart the furnace, follow systematic troubleshooting steps: verify thermostat settings, confirm power at the breaker, check the door interlock switch, and inspect the air filter and intake/exhaust vents for blockages.

Consult the control board LED codes or the Honeywell furnace manual to interpret diagnostic flashes. Error codes narrow down issues such as ignition failure, flame sensor faults, limit switch trips, or pressure switch problems.

Common Underlying Causes That Require More Than A Reset

• Dirty Flame Sensor: Causes ignition cycles to shut down; requires cleaning.
• Clogged Air Filter or Vents: Restricts airflow and trips limit switches.
• Faulty Pressure Switch: Prevents induction fan-to-draft verification and blocks ignition.
• Ignition or Gas Valve Failure: Needs professional diagnosis and replacement.
• Electrical Issues: Loose wiring, bad capacitors, or control board faults.

When Repeated Resets Indicate A Larger Problem

Frequent need to use the Honeywell furnace reset button often signals a chronic problem. Track occurrences, note conditions (cold start, after supplier interruption), and record any error codes. Frequent resets are an indicator to schedule a professional HVAC inspection.

A trained technician will perform tests such as combustion analysis, pressure switch tests, and electrical diagnostics to identify root causes and recommend repairs or component replacements.

Maintenance Steps To Reduce Furnace Lockouts

• Replace or clean the air filter every 1–3 months depending on usage and home environment.
• Keep intake and exhaust vents clear of snow, debris, or bird nests.
• Schedule annual professional maintenance to clean burners, inspect the flame sensor, and test safety switches.
• Ensure thermostat batteries are fresh and the wiring is secure.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors and test them regularly.

How To Read Honeywell Control Board Error Codes

Many Honeywell control boards use an LED blink pattern to indicate faults. Count blinks and compare them with the furnace manual; common patterns include ignition lockout, flame loss, pressure switch fault, and blower motor issues.

If documentation is unavailable, photograph the LED pattern and consult Honeywell’s technical support or an HVAC technician for accurate interpretation.

Models And Variations In Reset Procedures

Some older Honeywell furnaces have a dedicated red reset button while newer systems rely on the control board and thermostat to manage restarts. Heat pump systems and electric furnaces do not use the same manual reset approach used on gas furnaces.

Always follow model-specific instructions from the furnace data plate or owner’s manual to avoid damaging electronic controls or bypassing safety interlocks.

When To Call A Professional HVAC Technician

Call a licensed HVAC technician when the Honeywell furnace reset button does not restore operation after two attempts, when error codes persist, when there is a gas smell, or when the furnace cycles on and off repeatedly.

A professional will perform safe gas valve checks, pressure switch verification, flame sensor cleaning, and control board diagnostics that are beyond homeowner service scope.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Honeywell Furnace Reset Button

How Many Times Can The Reset Button Be Pressed?

Limit resets to one or two attempts. Repeated pressing may bypass safety protocols and is not safe. Persistent lockouts require professional attention.

Will Resetting Void My Warranty?

Using the reset button as intended typically does not void a furnace warranty. However, improper service, bypassing safety devices, or unauthorized repairs could affect warranty coverage.

Is The Reset Button The Same As Turning The Power Off?

No. Turning the power off and on cycles the system, while the reset button clears specific lockouts. Both actions are part of troubleshooting but serve different control functions.

Helpful Resources And Documentation

Consult the furnace data plate and the Honeywell control board manual for model-specific guidance. Honeywell technical support, HVAC trade organizations, and local licensed contractors provide reliable diagnostics and repair services.

Tip: Keep a digital photo of the wiring and control board before performing any work, so a technician can quickly identify components and historical conditions.