How to Reset Your Air Conditioner: a Step-by-Step Guide

Figure 1: Air conditioner outdoor unit.

Air conditioners are essential for keeping your home comfortable and cool during the hot summer months. However, if your air conditioner is not functioning properly, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable.

In such cases, resetting your air conditioner (restarting AC compressor) can help restore proper functionality and improve performance, especially after a power outage. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to reset air conditioner.

1. Why Restart Your Air Conditioner?

There are several reasons why you may need to reset your air conditioner. Some of the most common reasons include:

Protection Circuit Breaker: The most common reason for an AC unit requiring a reset is when the protection circuit breaker in your AC unit kicks in. This typically happens after a power outage and is in place to prevent fires and explosions.

Figure 2: Fuji circuit breaker

AC Blowing Warm Air: A reset can also correct an AC that's only blowing warm air, even when the thermostat is set to "cool." There are a handful of reasons your AC could be blowing warm air, but one of them is a general thermostat error. Sometimes a hard reset of your AC can solve that problem.

Power Outages: Power outages can cause your air conditioner to malfunction. Resetting your air conditioner can help restore proper functionality.

Overload: If your air conditioner is overloaded, it may shut down and stop functioning properly. Restarting your air conditioner can help resolve the overload issue.

Sensor Issues: If the sensors in your air conditioner are not functioning properly, it can cause the unit to malfunction. Resetting your air conditioner can help resolve sensor issues.

Figure 3: Keyence Sensor.

System Reset: Resetting your air conditioner can help reset the system and restore proper functionality.

2. Detailed Steps to Restart Your Air Conditioner

Here are the detailed steps on how to reset air conditioner:
● Turn off the Power
● Wait for a Few Minutes
● Turn the Power Back on

Step 1: Turn off the Power

The first step in resetting your air conditioner is to turn off the power. You can do this by unplugging the unit or turning off the circuit breaker that powers the AC unit. It's important to ensure that the unit is not receiving any power before attempting to reset it.

Step 2: Wait for a Few Minutes

After turning off the power, wait for a few minutes before turning it back on. This will give the air conditioner's internal components a chance to reset and cool down. It's important to wait for at least 5 to 10 minutes before turning the power back on.

Step 3: Turn the Power Back on

Once you've waited for a few minutes, turn the power back on. You can do this by plugging the unit back in or turning the circuit breaker back on. After turning the power back on, wait for a few minutes to see if the air conditioner starts functioning properly.

Figure 4: Plug the air conditioner.

How to Reset Air Conditioner with the Reset Button

Besides, if you air conditioner has a reset button, you can restart your air conditioner by it according to the following steps:
● Power Down Your AC
● Find the Reset Button
● Hold down the Reset Button
● Restore Power to Your AC

Step 1: Power Down Your AC
The first step in resetting your air conditioner is to power it down. Start at your circuit breaker panel and flip the breaker that powers your AC. Also, flip the power switch your AC unit is connected to outside to the off position.

Step 2: Find the Reset Button
Most air conditioning units are equipped with a reset button. These buttons tend to be red and quite small. If you're having a tough time finding it, consult your owner's manual. (If you can't find it, most are published online for quick reference).

Step 3: Hold down the Reset Button
Hold down the reset button for 3 to 5 seconds and then release.

Figure 5: Reset button diagram from wikihow.com.

Step 4: Restore Power to Your AC
Restore power to your AC. Flip all switches, including the one in your breaker panel to the on position.

3. What to Do If the AC Still Not Working after Reset?

If your air conditioner is still not functioning properly after following the above steps, it may be time to call a professional. A professional HVAC technician can diagnose the problem and provide a solution. It's important to ensure that you hire a qualified and experienced technician to ensure that the problem is resolved properly.

4. Conclusion

Resetting your air conditioner can help restore proper functionality and improve performance, especially after a power outage. If your air conditioner is not functioning properly, follow the above steps to reset it.

If your air conditioner is still not functioning properly, call a professional. With these tips, you can keep your air conditioner functioning properly and enjoy a comfortable home.

5. FAQs

5.1 Where is the Reset Button on AC Compressor?

The reset button on an AC compressor is typically located on the outside unit, also known as the condenser unit. It is usually placed near the electrical panel or on the side of the unit.

The reset button is very small and can be difficult to find, but it is often red in color. If you are having trouble locating the reset button, consult your owner's manual, which should provide a diagram of the unit and the location of the reset button.

In some cases, the reset button may not be visible and may require you to remove a cover or access panel to reach it. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when resetting your air conditioner to avoid any damage or safety hazards.

Note: Not all types of air conditioners have a reset button. The presence of a reset button depends on the manufacturer and model of the air conditioner. If you are unsure whether your air conditioner has a reset button or where it is located, consult your owner's manual or contact a qualified HVAC technician.

Figure 6: Mitsubishi Compressor.

5.2 What Do I Do If My AC Compressor Won't Turn on?

If your AC compressor won't turn on, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue:

Check the power supply: Make sure the air conditioner is plugged in and that the circuit breaker or fuse is not tripped. If it is tripped, reset it and see if that fixes the problem.

Check the thermostat: Ensure that the thermostat is set to "cool" and that the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. If the thermostat is not working properly, it may need to be replaced.

Check the air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the AC compressor to shut off. Replace the air filter if it appears dirty.

Check the condenser unit: The condenser unit can become dirty or clogged, causing the compressor to shut off. Clean the condenser unit and ensure that there are no obstructions.

Call a professional: If none of these steps resolve the issue, it may be time to call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the problem.

Remember to always follow safety protocols when working with electrical equipment, and to turn off the power supply before attempting any repairs.

Figure 7: Condenser unit.

5.3 Why is My AC Compressor Humming But Not Starting?

If your AC compressor is humming but not starting, it could be due to a variety of issues:

Faulty Capacitor: The capacitor is a small electrical component that helps start the compressor motor. If it is faulty or has failed, it can prevent the compressor from starting.

Electrical Issues: There may be an issue with the electrical wiring or connections to the compressor motor, preventing it from starting.

Dirty or Clogged Condenser: A dirty or clogged condenser can cause the compressor to overheat and shut off, preventing it from starting.

Low Refrigerant: If the refrigerant levels are low, it can cause the compressor to overheat and shut off, preventing it from starting.

Compressor Motor Issues: There may be an issue with the compressor motor itself, such as a burnt-out motor or a seized bearing, preventing it from starting.

In any case, it's important to have a qualified HVAC technician diagnose and repair the issue to ensure the safe and proper functioning of your air conditioning system.

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