Intertherm Furnace Reset Button Guide: Location, Use, and Troubleshooting

The Intertherm Furnace Reset Button topic covers how to find and use the reset button, when a reset is appropriate, safety considerations, and troubleshooting steps to address repeated lockouts or failures. This guide helps homeowners and HVAC technicians quickly diagnose common reset-related issues and decide when professional service is required.

Item	Quick Summary
Reset Button Location	Typically on the blower motor, control panel, or gas valve; consult manual or cabinet labels
When To Press	After a temporary power surge, flame failure, or after replacing parts—only once
Risks	Overuse masks underlying problems; can indicate ignition, gas, or airflow issues
Troubleshooting Steps	Check power, thermostat, filter, flame sensor, venting, and error codes before resetting

What The Intertherm Furnace Reset Button Is And Why It Exists

The Intertherm furnace reset button is a safety device designed to clear an internal fault condition or to restart the furnace after a temporary fault. It is not a repair tool and should be used sparingly to avoid masking persistent failures. The reset function protects components from damage and prevents unsafe operation when ignition, overheating, or electrical faults occur.

Common Locations Of The Reset Button On Intertherm Furnaces

Intertherm furnaces can vary by model, but the reset button is commonly found in these locations: on the blower motor housing, near the control board inside the cabinet, or integrated with the gas valve assembly. Consult the furnace manual or the label on the inner access panel for the exact location for a specific model.

Blower Motor

Some Intertherm units have a manual reset on the blower motor housing that trips on thermal overload. This button typically pops out and must be depressed to restart the motor after it cools.

Control Panel Or Control Board

Other models include a small red or black reset button on or near the main control board. This resets electrical logic or safety interlocks and may clear fault codes.

Gas Valve Assembly

A reset on the gas valve or near the ignition module indicates a flame or gas control safety trip. That reset often requires waiting for the furnace to cool and for gas safety timers to expire before pressing.

When It Is Appropriate To Press The Reset Button

Resetting the furnace can be appropriate after a transient problem such as a brief power outage, a single failed ignition attempt, or after replacing a component and restoring power. Only one reset attempt is recommended. Multiple resets in quick succession suggest a deeper fault that needs diagnosis.

Safe Scenarios To Reset

• After restoring power following an outage
• Following replacement of a failed component when wiring and connections are verified
• After a single ignition failure that was not accompanied by unusual odors or noises

When Not To Reset

• If the furnace smells strongly of gas—evacuate and call the gas company immediately
• When there are persistent ignition or flame failures
• After repeated trips within a short period, which indicates mechanical, electrical, or venting problems

Step-By-Step Reset Procedure For Intertherm Furnaces

Follow these steps to safely reset an Intertherm furnace. If any step reveals a problem or dangerous condition, stop and call a licensed technician.

1. Turn Off Power: Switch the furnace’s service switch to off and/or turn the breaker off at the main panel.
2. Wait: Allow at least 5 minutes for internal capacitors and gas safety timers to reset and for components to cool.
3. Inspect: Check the air filter, vents, and visible wiring for obvious issues. Replace a dirty filter and clear closed or blocked vents.
4. Locate Reset Button: Open the access panel and find the reset button on the blower motor, control board, or gas valve per the manual.
5. Press Once: Depress the reset button firmly one time and release. Do not hold the button down for extended periods.
6. Restore Power: Turn the breaker or service switch back on and set the thermostat to call for heat.
7. Observe: Allow the furnace to complete a normal ignition sequence and monitor for proper operation or error codes.

Diagnostics To Run Before And After Resetting

Resetting should be combined with basic diagnostics to determine root causes. Checking these items reduces the chance of reset cycling and prevents damage.

Power And Electrical Checks

Verify the furnace has steady 120V or 240V power, depending on the model. Confirm the service switch is on and the circuit breaker is not tripped. Loose or corroded connections can cause intermittent faults.

Thermostat And Controls

Confirm the thermostat is set properly and wiring terminals are secure. Test by forcing a heat call to observe the furnace reaction. A misconfigured or failing thermostat can mimic furnace issues.

Airflow And Filter

Inspect and replace clogged filters. Restricted airflow can overheat the furnace, trip thermal limits, or cause flame instability. Ensure return and supply vents are open and unobstructed.

Ignition And Flame Sensing

Examine the ignition module, spark or hot surface ignitor, and flame sensor for buildup or wear. A dirty flame sensor often causes repeated flame failure and resets will not fix it long-term.

Venting And Combustion Air

Check exhaust vents and fresh air intakes for blockage, wildlife nests, or ice. Improper venting leads to unsafe combustion and safety lockouts.

Common Causes Of Reset Button Trips

Reset trips typically point to these underlying problems: ignition failure, flame rollout, overheating due to restricted airflow, motor overload, limit switch faults, or electrical surges. Identifying the specific cause directs effective repairs.

Ignition And Flame Problems

Failures in the ignitor, flame sensor, or gas valve often cause the furnace to fail to light and run a safety lockout. Cleaning or replacing the flame sensor and ensuring proper gas pressure are common fixes.

Overheating And Airflow Restriction

A clogged filter, blocked return, or closed registers increase heat exchanger temperature, tripping high-limit switches or motor overloads. Regular filter maintenance prevents many trips.

Blower Motor Overload

A worn motor, bad capacitor, or mechanical friction can cause the motor to overheat and trip its internal reset. Motor replacement or capacitor testing may be required.

Safety Considerations And Gas Odor Protocol

Gas-related trips require special caution. If a gas smell is present, do not press the reset button, do not operate electrical switches, and evacuate the home. Contact the gas utility and a licensed HVAC contractor from a safe location.

Carbon Monoxide And Venting Concerns

Repeated reset trips due to venting or combustion issues could increase the risk of carbon monoxide. Install and maintain CO detectors near sleeping areas and the furnace room, and arrange immediate service for suspected combustion problems.

When To Call A Professional HVAC Technician

If a reset is required more than once, if error codes persist after resetting, or if any gas smell or abnormal noises are present, a licensed technician should be called. Professionals can perform pressure checks, combustion analysis, control board diagnostics, and replace failing components safely.

Diagnostic Services Professionals Provide

• Multimeter and HVAC diagnostic tool testing of controls and sensors
• Combustion efficiency testing and vent pressure checks
• Gas valve and ignition system bench tests
• Flame sensor cleaning/replacement and limit switch testing

Preventive Maintenance To Reduce Reset Button Trips

Regular maintenance significantly reduces reset events. A seasonal tune-up focusing on filters, ignition components, venting, and electrical connections improves reliability and efficiency.

Maintenance Checklist

• Replace air filter every 1–3 months depending on system and usage
• Clean flame sensor and inspect the ignitor annually
• Inspect venting and combustion air openings for blockage
• Lubricate blower components where applicable and check motor capacitor
• Verify thermostat calibration and battery replacement

Understanding Error Codes And Indicator Lights On Intertherm Units

Many Intertherm furnaces display diagnostic LED codes on the control board. Record flashing patterns before resetting, as they provide clues to the fault. Consult the owner’s manual or the control board label for the LED code chart.

How To Use Error Codes

Match the LED flash sequence to the fault description to determine whether the issue is ignition, pressure switch, flame sense, or fan-related. Use codes to guide targeted repairs rather than repeated resets.

Parts And Tools Helpful For Homeowners

• Replacement filters sized to the furnace specifications
• Nut drivers and screwdrivers for access panels
• Multimeter for basic voltage and continuity checks
• Soft cloth and alcohol for flame sensor cleaning
• Portable CO detector for safety verification

When Resetting Is A Temporary Fix: Long-Term Solutions

Repeated reset button use often signals the need for component replacement or system upgrades. Common long-term fixes include replacing a failing blower motor, changing a worn ignitor, deep-cleaning or replacing the heat exchanger if corrosion is found, and upgrading controls or the thermostat.

Documentation And Record-Keeping Recommendations

Recording reset events, error codes, and maintenance performed creates a useful history for diagnosing intermittent faults. Note the date, circumstances, and any corrective actions taken to help HVAC professionals pinpoint chronic issues.

Key Takeaways For Intertherm Furnace Reset Button Use

Use the reset button sparingly, follow a safe procedure, and perform basic checks before and after resetting. If issues persist, odors are present, or repeated trips occur, discontinue resets and contact a licensed HVAC technician for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair.

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