What Does the Reset Button Do on a Thermostat?

Most heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) system thermostats have more than just temperature control buttons. They often have a reset button as well.

Whether your HVAC system features a standard thermostat or a smart thermostat, you may discover a reset button on it.

While most homeowners never use it, the reset button serves an important purpose.

The Purpose of the Reset Button

The reset button is exactly what it sounds like: it’s designed to reset your HVAC system’s thermostat.

Thermostats are electronic devices. And like most electronic devices, they can experience problems that prevent them from operating as intended.

Maybe it’s stuck in heating or cooling mode, or perhaps your HVAC system is turning off prematurely. The reset button is designed to solve problems such as these by resetting the thermostat.

When you press the reset button, you’ll reset your HVAC system’s thermostat. It will turn completely off, and depending on the type of thermostat, it may reset to factory settings. The entire process should take less than a minute.

Once it has finished resetting, you can adjust the controls to achieve a desirable indoor temperature.

When to Use the Reset Button

You may want to use the reset button if your HVAC system’s thermostat is nonresponsive.

In other words, if you adjust the temperature controls but it doesn’t turn on the AC or furnace, the reset button may help.

As previously mentioned, the reset button can prove useful if you’re unable to switch between the AC and furnace. Most HVAC systems have a “cool” button and a “heat” button. Pressing the former button should turn on the AC, whereas pressing the latter button should turn on the furnace. If your HVAC system doesn’t switch, you may want to use the reset button.

Keep in mind that you may need to press and hold the button for it to work. Many thermostats require holding the reset button for at least 10 or more seconds. Only then will the thermostat perform a full reset.

In Conclusion

The reset button allows you to completely reset your HVAC system’s thermostat.

It will turn the thermostat off, and in most cases, it will restore the thermostat to factory settings. If you’re experiencing problems with your HVAC system, you should try using the reset button. If that doesn’t work, you can always contact an HVAC technician for assistance.

If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.

1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.