Where Is the Furnace Reset Button Located and How to Use It

The furnace reset button helps restart a furnace after safety shutoffs or electrical faults and is commonly used during troubleshooting. This article explains typical reset button locations, safe reset procedures, troubleshooting tips, and when to call a professional, so homeowners can act confidently and safely.

Furnace Type	Common Reset Button Location	Notes
Gas Furnace	On the blower compartment or near the gas valve	Often red or yellow; may be recessed
Electrical/Inducer Motor	On motor housing or control board access panel	Resets overheat/overload
Floor/Wall Furnace	Behind access panel or control box	Less standardized locations

How The Furnace Reset Button Works

The furnace reset button is a manual means to restore power to specific safety circuits after an automatic shutdown. It typically protects motors, the gas valve, or the control board by opening the circuit when an overload, overheat, or fault is detected. Pressing the reset re-engages the circuit, allowing the component to operate again if the fault has cleared.

Manufacturers design reset switches as a last-resort restart mechanism; repeated trips indicate an unresolved problem. Using the reset button temporarily restores function but does not replace diagnostic steps needed to identify root causes.

Common Locations Of The Furnace Reset Button

Reset button placement varies by furnace model, age, and manufacturer. The most common locations are: on or near the blower motor, on the control board, beside the gas valve, or behind an access panel on wall or floor furnaces. Identifying the right area reduces unnecessary disassembly and improves safety.

On The Blower Motor Or Motor Housing

Many furnaces have a reset or overload button mounted directly on the blower motor housing. This button protects the motor from overheating or drawing excessive current. The button is often small, recessed, and colored red or black.

On The Control Board Or Near The Gas Valve

Some furnaces include a reset on the main control board or adjacent to the gas valve assembly. These designs allow technicians to reset safety limits for ignition systems or gas controls. Access usually requires removing a front panel or control-box cover.

Inside An Access Panel Or Behind A Cover

Floor and wall furnaces, or compact units, sometimes locate the reset switch behind a dedicated access panel. The panel may have screws or clips; always power down the unit before removing panels. The reset may be labeled “reset,” “thermal cutout,” or appear as a small button.

How To Find The Reset Button Safely

Before searching for the reset button, take basic safety steps: shut power to the furnace, turn off the gas if working near the valve, and read the owner’s manual. These precautions reduce the risk of electrical shock, gas leaks, or injury from moving parts.

1. Turn Off Power: Use the furnace switch or circuit breaker to cut power.
2. Turn Off Gas (If Applicable): Close the gas shutoff valve when working near gas components.
3. Allow Cooling Time: Wait for hot components like the heat exchanger or burners to cool.
4. Locate Panels: Identify and remove the access panel with tools if necessary.

Refer to the unit’s data plate or manual for diagrams showing control locations. If the manual is unavailable, many manufacturers publish PDFs online or provide customer support for part locations.

Step-By-Step Reset Procedure

Follow a consistent, safe method when using the reset button. Improper resetting can mask ongoing faults or create hazards.

1. Power Down: Switch the furnace power off at the breaker and use the furnace power switch if present.
2. Access The Reset: Remove the front access panel or blower compartment cover to see the motor or control board.
3. Locate The Button: Identify the reset button—look for small, often colored buttons marked “reset” or “motor reset.”
4. Press And Hold (If Recommended): Press the button firmly; some buttons require a few seconds of pressure.
5. Restore Power: Replace panels as needed, then turn power back on at the switch or breaker.
6. Observe Operation: Let the furnace run through a complete cycle and listen for unusual sounds or repeated trips.

If the reset trips again shortly after being pressed, disconnect power and stop attempts. Repeated resets indicate persistent faults that need professional inspection.

Reasons A Furnace Reset Button Trips

Understanding why a reset trips helps identify the severity of the issue. Common causes include motor overload, blocked airflow, electrical faults, failed capacitors, and overheating due to dirty components.

• Overheated Blower Motor: Caused by friction, worn bearings, or prolonged heavy loads.
• Restricted Airflow: Dirty filters, closed vents, or blocked return ducts force the motor to work harder.
• Failed Capacitor: A weak or failing start/run capacitor increases motor current and can trigger the reset.
• Electrical Problems: Loose wiring, corroded connectors, or voltage issues can create transient faults.
• Short-Cycling Or Control Board Faults: Malfunctions in the control system may cause shutdowns that require a manual reset.

Diagnostics To Perform Before Resetting

Before pressing the reset, inspect and correct simple issues that commonly cause trips. These steps can prevent unnecessary resets and reveal underlying problems.

• Check Air Filters: Replace or clean filters if dirty; restricted airflow is a frequent cause of overheating.
• Inspect Vents And Returns: Ensure registers are open and returns are unobstructed.
• Look For Visible Damage: Check wiring for burns, loose terminals, or signs of overheating.
• Test Thermostat Settings: Confirm the thermostat is operating correctly and not short-cycling the furnace.
• Smell For Gas Or Burnt Odors: If a gas or electrical smell is present, turn off the furnace and call a technician immediately.

When Not To Press The Reset Button

Pressing the reset is appropriate only when the cause of the shutdown is known to be minor or after basic checks. Avoid resetting if there are persistent electrical smells, visible damage, gas leaks, or repeated trips.

If the furnace emits unusual noise, smoke, or a burning smell, shut off power and call a licensed HVAC technician. Repeated resets without resolving the root cause increase the risk of component failure or fire.

Tools And Equipment Needed For Safe Reset Attempts

Having the right tools improves safety and effectiveness. Basic items include: a non-contact voltage tester, screwdriver set, flashlight, work gloves, and a multimeter if the user is comfortable testing electrical components.

Use protective gloves and eye protection when removing panels or handling components. If unsure about testing electrical parts or gas controls, stop and contact a professional.

Troubleshooting Common Scenarios

Reset Trips After Short Period

If the reset trips shortly after restarting, suspect a recurring overload or short. Check the capacitor, motor bearings, and airflow restrictions. Replace filters and inspect the blower wheel for debris.

Reset Button Won’t Stay In Or Won’t Depress

A stuck or damaged reset button can indicate mechanical failure or corrosion. If the button is inaccessible or broken, avoid forcing it and seek professional service to replace the faulty switch or motor.

Furnace Runs For A While Then Shuts Down

Intermittent operation often points to overheating or thermostat issues. Monitor temperature rise across the heat exchanger, and verify the fan limit switch and high-limit safety sensors are functioning.

When To Call A Professional

A professional HVAC technician is necessary when faults involve gas systems, persistent electrical issues, or when replacement parts like motors, capacitors, or control boards are required. Professionals have the tools and certification to safely service gas components and perform detailed electrical diagnostics.

Call a technician if the reset trips repeatedly, smells of gas, the furnace displays error codes on a control board, or if the homeowner lacks confidence in performing the checks described.

Maintenance Tips To Prevent Reset Trips

Regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of resets and extends furnace life. Important tasks include scheduled filter changes, annual professional tune-ups, cleaning the blower assembly, and inspecting electrical connections.

• Change filters every 1–3 months depending on use and filter type.
• Schedule an annual HVAC inspection and tune-up before heating season.
• Keep the area around the furnace clear to ensure proper ventilation.
• Have capacitors and motors tested if the furnace is older or shows signs of wear.

Safety Reminders And Best Practices

When locating or pressing the reset button, prioritize safety. Always shut power before accessing internal components, avoid bypassing safety switches, and never ignore gas odors or electrical burning smells. Repeated manual resets should prompt immediate professional evaluation.

Keep the furnace manual and manufacturer’s contact information nearby. Many modern units include LED diagnostics or fault codes—record these for technicians to streamline repairs.

Resources And Further Reading

For model-specific guidance, consult the furnace owner’s manual, manufacturer support websites, or reputable HVAC resources such as contractor associations and government energy efficiency pages. Professional HVAC contractors and licensed service technicians provide inspections, diagnostics, and repairs beyond homeowner capabilities.

Key resources include manufacturer documentation, the U.S. Department of Energy HVAC overview, and trade organizations that publish maintenance checklists and safety practices.