The most frustrating thing that can happen during summer to any homeowner is the breakdown of the air conditioning unit. Luckily you can resolve some AC issues by simply resetting it. A power outage may disrupt your AC functioning and, it might fail to kick on immediately even after power return.
You set your thermostat on the cooling mode, but the AC isn’t blowing in cool enough air. In such cases, resetting your unit should be your first course of action. You don’t have to call a technician every time your unit stops working. Here are some of the AC resetting methods that you can consider based on your unit type.
Most ACs have a reset button to help you clear minor mechanical problems whenever they occur. Read through the manufacturer’s manual or run a quick online search to determine the location of the reset button in your specific model. It’s a small, red button usually located on or around the unit.
The button should have a clear ‘reset’ label. Once you find the button, press it for around three seconds and observe the AC. Check whether the AC kicks on immediately and if it doesn’t, press the button again for another three seconds. Your AC should beep thrice then reboot immediately.
If your AC still won’t turn on or doesn’t have a reset button, you can reboot it via the isolation switch. The central role of an AC isolator is to disconnect the power supply to the unit in case of unusual electric current or when the unit malfunctions. You can find it on the wall beside the unit or at the condenser. The isolation switch looks like an ordinary light switch with a knob.
Once you locate it, turn the knob to the off position and leave it for at least 30 minutes up to an hour. This will allow the electrically operated components in the AC to reset. Keep in mind that even when the power is off, there could still be some electric charges within the components.
After 30 minutes, you can turn the isolation switch back to the on position. Turn the AC on and observe whether it’s working as expected. If the unit still doesn’t work, the isolation switch could be faulty, and you may want to try out another reset method.
Begin by shutting off your AC by turning the thermostat to the off position. Find the shutoff panel located near the unit and shut off the power to the compressor unit. Once you are done, unplug the unit from the power supply board to fully disconnect the system. This way, you will ensure that your AC isn’t receiving any power, even when you have a faulty powerpoint. Leave the unit unplugged for about 30 minutes to allow the charge to dissipate out of the unit’s components.
After 30 minutes, plug back the cord to power, set the thermostat to cool, and turn on the powerpoint. Let your air conditioner run and observe the operations. If the unit still doesn’t work, plug in another appliance to test the power supply. If it still fails to work, there could be a problem with the power supply, and you should contact a technician to resolve this. However, if the powerpoint is fine, but the AC still won’t start, you can consider another resetting method.
If the other method fails, you can still reset the AC via the switchboard. Locate the switchboard linked to your AC. It’s usually in the basement, garage, crawlspaces, closet, or at the side of the house. Once you find it, open the switchboard door to access the fuses, safety switch, and circuit breaker. You now need to determine the specific circuit breaker or safety switch connected to the AC. In some units, it’s labeled, while in others, it’s not.
Be very careful when dealing with the electric panel, and if you aren’t comfortable, you can seek professional assistance. After finding the circuit breaker for your AC unit, flip it to the off position. Leave it off for around 30 minutes, then flip it back to the on position.
If you have fuses, you can only reset the AC by taking the fuse out. After the 30 minutes lapses, reinstall the fuse back in position if it’s still in good condition, but replace a worn-out fuse with a new one. Now turn the AC back on, confirm if the thermostat is set to cool, and observe how the unit functions.
If you have tried all of the above methods and your AC still doesn’t work, it’s time to call a professional to assess the unit. Frequently resetting your AC can cause more problems within the system. Once you realize that your unit keeps malfunctioning, call a technician to check it. Most times, there is usually an underlying mechanical problem that needs diagnosis. It could be that the refrigerant level is too low, the unit compressor could be failing, or the fans are clogged.
When a professional examines the entire unit, they will troubleshoot the problem and fix it to avoid reoccurrence. Also, if your air conditioner is so slow to cool your house, it needs servicing. This problem occurs when you have a clogged filter, leaky ducts, a dirty outdoor unit, a unit that’s too old, or an undersized system.
If your AC or the circuit breaker has some exposed wires, don’t attempt resetting your unit since it might get damaged completely. Keep in mind that exposed wires can cause sparks, fire, and electrocution. Call an experienced technician immediately. You should also never attempt to work on a breaker panel that has no cover. Call a professional if the breaker on your unit keeps tripping.
Resetting your AC is the easiest way to reboot your unit, resolve minor issues, and allow it to run smoothly. Whenever you find that you restart your AC more often than usual, this indicates a significant problem. You wouldn’t want to get caught unawares with a faulty AC during scorching summer days. You should therefore plan for regular maintenance before the beginning of the season. During tune-ups, your technician will spot minor problems and fix them before they escalate into significant issues.
Preventive maintenance keeps your unit running at peak efficiency throughout the season. This will save you from emergency repairs, high utility bills, and frustrating breakdowns. It can even prolong the AC’s lifespan.
Regular maintenance will also improve your home’s safety. A professional can notice loose electrical connections early enough and fix them to protect your family and property from fire. This will also protect you from the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, which can cause adverse health issues.
If you have any questions regarding resetting your AC or need professional assistance with your unit, you can always reach out to Buckeye Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Our company deals with AC and furnace installation, repair, and maintenance. We also offer whole air purification, humid control, and humidification services in Worthington, OH, and the surrounding areas. Call our friendly team now and book an appointment.