AC Quit? Here's How to Reset it?

AC Quit? Here’s How to Reset It

It’s a scorching summer day in the U.S., and you’re relieved you have central air conditioning. But then you find your AC behaving oddly or not cooling like it is supposed to. Before you panic, try resetting your AC. This easy step often fixes minor issues and gets your system operating normally again.

Why Would I Need to Reset My Home’s AC?

Every AC has a protection circuit breaker. This safety apparatus prevents electrical accidents, such as fires or explosions, that could develop from power surges or outages. When the circuit trips, resetting your central air conditioning is necessary to get it operating again.

Another time to reset the AC is if your unit is blowing warm air when it ought to be producing cool air. In cases like this, the root cause might be a thermostat malfunction. Sometimes, a simple reset is all it takes to eliminate the situation.

However, it’s crucial to approach this task with caution. If you’re uneasy about resetting the AC yourself, contact a professional for assistance. Additionally, be aware that tampering with your unit’s internal components might void your warranty, so always check the guidelines before proceeding.

Understanding the Importance of Resetting Your AC

Before diving into the reset methods, it’s important to understand why resetting your AC can be beneficial. Modern air conditioning systems are complex machines with multiple components working together to provide cooling. Sometimes, these components can get out of sync due to power fluctuations, voltage drops, or minor electrical issues. Resetting the AC can help:

1. Reboot the System: Just like a computer, your AC system may benefit from a restart to clear minor glitches.
2. Reset the Thermostat: A reset can recalibrate the thermostat, ensuring it communicates accurately with the AC unit.
3. Protect the System: If there’s an electrical issue, a reset ensures that the safety mechanisms have been properly activated and the system is safe to use.

5 Strategies for Resetting the AC

When small issues develop, a reset is a good way to start troubleshooting. Here are five ways to reset the AC:

1. Reset Your Circuit Breaker Your home’s electrical panel contains the breakers for all your electrical circuits, including a specific one for your heating and cooling system. If the cooling system is having issues soon after a power surge or outage, try this strategy first.

   • Locate the Electrical Panel: Often found in the garage, basement, crawlspace, or utility closet. It’s a metal box with a door that houses all the circuit breakers.
   • Find the HVAC Breaker: This breaker is dedicated to your heating and cooling system. If the circuits aren’t labeled, you might have to figure out which switch controls your HVAC.
   • Turn Off the Breaker: Flip the circuit breaker off. This cuts power to the AC system.
   • Wait 30 Minutes: Allow time for the internal circuitry to reset and any electrical charges to dissipate.
   • Turn the Breaker Back On: Flip the circuit breaker back on.
   • Test the AC: Turn the air conditioning back on, ensure the thermostat is set to “cool,” and check how the unit functions.

2. Press the Reset Button If your cooling system has a reset button, this is probably the quickest way to clear any slight errors in the system. This small, red button is often located on or near the outside condensing unit, sometimes under a panel marked “Reset.” If you cannot find it, reference your AC’s owner’s manual or look online.

   • Set Thermostat to “Off”: Turn off the thermostat to prevent it from signaling the AC unit.
   • Turn Off the Circuit Breaker: Cut power to the AC by flipping the breaker.
   • Press and Hold the Reset Button: Hold it for three to five seconds to reset the system.
   • Restore Power: Turn the breaker back on.
   • Set Thermostat to “Cool”: Adjust it to a temperature slightly lower than the current indoor temperature. The cooling system should start up in a few seconds. If the air coming from the registers is nice and cool, you’re good to go!

3. Flip the Isolation Switch If you don’t see a reset button, search for the isolation switch near the outdoor unit. This safety feature enables you to shut off power to the AC when the unit malfunctions without compromising the rest of your home’s electricity. It usually looks like a dial with an “on” and “off” position.

   • Turn Off the System: Flip the isolation switch to the off position.
   • Wait 30 to 60 Minutes: Allow time for the system to reset.
   • Turn the Switch Back On: Flip the switch again to restore power.
   • Check the AC: This manual reboot disconnects your air conditioner from power, allowing all electrical equipment to reset. Turn the system back on and see if it works correctly.

4. Unplug the Unit Is your AC still not working the way it should? The next reset strategy is to unplug the equipment.

   • Locate the Shutoff Panel: This is usually near the exterior unit.
   • Turn Off the Power to the Compressor: Flip the switch or circuit breaker that supplies power to the compressor.
   • Unplug the Air Conditioner: Remove the plug from the power supply board.
   • Wait 30 Minutes: Let any residual charge dissipate from the internal components, clearing any errors and giving the equipment a fresh start.
   • Plug It Back In: Restore power by plugging the unit back in and flipping the switch back on.
   • Test the System: If the cooling system still won’t work correctly, the socket could be defective. You’ll need a heating and cooling specialist to repair this issue.

5. Work with a Pro When all else fails, or if you’re unsure about attempting the DIY tips above, hiring a skilled HVAC specialist is your best bet. A certified HVAC contractor can reset your system using specialized tools and diagnose underlying issues that might not be fixed with a simple reset.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your AC

While resetting your AC can solve minor issues, regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of your system. Here are some additional tips to keep your AC in top condition:

1. Regular Filter Changes: Replace or clean the air filters every 1-3 months to ensure proper airflow and efficiency.
2. Annual Professional Maintenance: Schedule an annual check-up with a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean the system.
3. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean: Ensure the area around the outdoor unit is free of debris, leaves, and dirt that can obstruct airflow.
4. Check Thermostat Settings: Ensure your thermostat is set correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for better control.
5. Inspect Ductwork: Regularly check for leaks or obstructions in the ductwork to ensure efficient airflow throughout your home.

Air Conditioning Still Not Working? Call the Professionals at On Services

If you’ve attempted resetting your AC yourself and it’s still not working, don’t worry—On Services is here to help. Our technicians provide fast, long-lasting AC repair, with your satisfaction guaranteed. If you’re not totally happy with our AC services, we’ll make it right! Contact us at 480-586-3004 today to experience the difference we can make in your life and comfort level!