How To Reset My Furnace?
Quick Summary: Resetting a furnace can often solve performance issues, but it’s essential to follow safety steps. Gas, electric, and oil furnaces have different reset procedures, typically involving the furnace reset button, checking the pilot light, circuit breaker, or fuel levels. Ensure there are no safety hazards like gas leaks, and inspect components like the dirty air filter, blower motor, and flame sensor. If the furnace still won’t restart after resetting, it may require furnace repairs by a professional. Regular furnace maintenance and proper care will help prevent issues and ensure efficient heating throughout the winter months.
Furnaces are critical for maintaining comfort in your home, especially during colder months. However, there are times when they may stop functioning properly, requiring a reset. Resetting your furnace can be a simple process, but it’s important to follow safety procedures and understand how your specific type of furnace works. Whether you have a gas furnace, oil furnace, or electric furnace, this guide will walk you through the steps to reset it safely and effectively.
Understanding the Furnace Reset Button
The first thing to know is that many modern furnaces come with a built-in furnace reset button. This button serves as a critical safety feature designed to shut the furnace down if it overheats or if there’s a power surge. Once the furnace cools down, it allows you to manually reset the system by pressing the button.
Before using the reset button, it’s essential to check for any safety hazards such as gas leaks, a pilot flame jet that won’t ignite, or other safety issues. Always ensure the area around the furnace is clear of combustible materials and that the room has proper airflow. If you have a gas furnace, the smell of gas could indicate a leak, and you should not attempt to reset it. In such cases, contact a professional furnace repair technician immediately.
Types of Furnaces and How to Reset Them
Gas Furnaces
For gas furnaces, the most common cause of shutdown is an issue with the pilot light or the blower motor. If the pilot light goes out, the furnace will not function properly. You can often reignite the pilot using a barbecue lighter, but it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific furnace model.
Once the pilot light is lit, locate the furnace reset button, which is typically found inside the blower compartment near the access panel. Press the button and hold it for about 30 seconds. If the furnace doesn’t reset, you may need to check other components, such as the flame sensor rod, which could be dirty and prevent the furnace from operating.
Electric Furnaces
If you have an electric furnace, the process is slightly different. Electric furnaces rely on a power supply to function, and power surges or a power outage can trip the system. Start by ensuring the power switch is in the “on” position. If the furnace is still unresponsive, check the circuit breaker in the circuit box or electrical panel. A tripped breaker could be the culprit, and resetting the breaker could bring your furnace back online.
If the breaker is not tripped, locate the furnace reset switch inside the furnace housing. This switch might be located near the blower motor or the limit switch. Press the reset button, and the furnace should start working again.
Oil Furnaces
For oil furnaces, the process can be a bit more complex. These furnaces use fuel stored in an oil tank, and issues with the fuel supply or ignition can cause the furnace to shut down. Begin by checking the fuel level in the tank. If it’s low or empty, refilling the tank is the first step.
Next, check the furnace reset button, which is usually located near the oil burner. Press the button once to reset the furnace. If the furnace doesn’t restart, it may be due to a clogged fuel line or a malfunctioning flame sensor. In this case, it’s advisable to call a heating technician to inspect the furnace and perform any necessary furnace repairs.

What to Check Before Resetting Your Furnace
Before you press the reset button, there are several things you should inspect to avoid further damage or potential safety issues.
- Dirty Air Filter: A dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to overheat. Replace any dirty air filterbefore attempting to reset the furnace.
- Thermostat Temperature: Make sure the thermostat is set to a temperature higher than the current room temperature. If the thermostat isn’t properly set, the furnace may not turn on.
- Blower Compartment: Open the access panel and check the blower compartment for any signs of dust buildup or blockages. Cleaning the area may improve furnace performance.
- Flame Sensor: A dirty or faulty flame sensor rod may prevent the furnace from restarting. Cleaning or replacing this part could resolve the issue.
Safety Mechanisms and Common Furnace Issues
Modern furnaces are equipped with several safety mechanisms to prevent safety hazards and ensure proper operation. These include safety locks, limit switches, and flame sensors. While these components are designed to keep your furnace functioning safely, they can sometimes cause furnace issues if they become dirty or malfunction.
The limit switch ensures the furnace doesn’t overheat by turning off the burner if the temperature exceeds a certain level. If this switch is faulty, it may prevent your furnace from restarting, even after pressing the reset button. A furnace repair technician can inspect this part and determine if it needs to be replaced.
When to Call a Professional Furnace Repair Technician
While resetting your furnace can often resolve the issue, there are times when it’s best to call a professional. If your furnace continues to shut down after being reset, or if you notice uneven heating, strange noises, or persistent issues with the blower motor, it may indicate a more serious problem that requires professional furnace repair.
In addition, if you’re unsure about the type of furnace you have or its specific reset procedure, it’s always a good idea to contact a furnace maintenance expert for assistance. A heating technician from Same Day can also inspect your furnace for any underlying issues, perform necessary furnace services, and ensure that your system is running efficiently.
Preventing Future Furnace Problems
Regular furnace maintenance is key to preventing breakdowns and avoiding the need for frequent resets. Simple tasks like changing air filters, checking the thermostat temperature, and cleaning the blower compartment can go a long way in keeping your furnace running smoothly.
Annual inspections by a qualified technician can also catch small problems before they become major repairs, ensuring that your furnace is always ready to provide central heating when you need it most.
Overall, resetting your furnace can be a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the proper steps and exercise caution. Always start by checking for common issues like a dirty filter, power problems, or issues with the pilot light. If the reset button doesn’t resolve the problem, or if you feel uncomfortable with any part of the process, don’t hesitate to call a professional furnace repair technician at Same Day! Regular maintenance and attention to safety features will ensure your furnace continues to heat your home reliably for years to come.