How to Reset an Air Conditioning Unit

Learn how to reset an air conditioning unit that has malfunctioned.

Air conditioning units provide you with a chilly respite from the sweltering summer heat. Sometimes air conditioning units can malfunction, leaving you sweaty and frustrated. But you don't need to go out and start shopping for a new air conditioner just yet. Most brands of air conditioners include a convenient "Reset" button that you can use to clear the unit of minor mechanical problems. Even if your air conditioning unit doesn't have a dedicated "Reset" button, you can flip the circuit breaker to get your air conditioner working again.

Instructions

Quick Reset

1. Unplug your air conditioning unit from its electrical outlet. Count to 10 before plugging the appliance back in.

2. Find the tiny "Test" and "Reset" buttons on the air conditioning unit's plug casing.

3. Press the "Test" button on the plug casing, followed by the "Reset" button; the air conditioning unit is reset and should function normally.

Circuit Breaker Reset

1. Find your home's circuit breaker box. Locate the box in your garage, basement, or laundry room; the boxes are usually made of tan or putty-colored metal.

2. Open the door of your circuit breaker box to gain access to the circuit breaker switches. Find the switch that corresponds to your air conditioning unit.

3. Flip the circuit breaker switch into the "Off" position and count to 10.

4. Move the switch back into the "On" position to reset your air conditioning unit.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the manufacturer or a qualified appliance repair technician if the air conditioning unit continues to malfunction. The need for frequent resets often indicates an underlying mechanical issue that must be repaired in order for the unit to function properly.

• Resetting instructions may vary by air conditioner manufacturer and model. Contact the manufacturer of your air conditioning unit directly to obtain reset instructions that are specific to your air conditioner.

References

• "Cheap and Easy Appliance Repair;" Douglas Emley; 2003
• LG: Window-Type Air Conditioner Owner's Manual
• Bryant: GT-PX/GT-PE Split Series Owner's Manual

Resources

• LG: Contact Us
• Goldstar Appliances: Customer Care
• Bryant: Service and Support