When your furnace stops working, a reset can often solve the problem. Knowing how and when to reset your furnace is helpful for quick troubleshooting. At Allen Service, we want you to feel prepared to handle minor furnace issues, so here’s a guide to safely reset your gas or electric furnace.

Where Is the Reset Button on a Furnace?

The reset button is a safety feature that shuts off the furnace if it detects an issue, such as overheating or a power interruption. Here’s where to find it on different furnaces:

Gas Furnace – The reset button, often red or yellow, is usually located on the blower motor housing or control board.
Electric Furnace – The reset button is generally near the blower motor or inside the access panel.
Oil Furnace – On oil furnaces, the reset button is typically near the burner motor and may be labeled “reset.”

The first step in troubleshooting is to locate the reset button. If you’re unsure of its exact location, refer to your furnace’s manual or contact us at Allen Service for guidance.

Why Does a Furnace Need to Be Reset?

The reset button trips when the furnace senses an issue. Common reasons include:

Overheating due to restricted airflow or dirty filters.
Power interruptions that disrupt the furnace’s operation.
Fuel supply issues in gas or oil furnaces.
Thermostat malfunctions, causing the furnace to shut down.

A reset can restart the system, but if it happens frequently, it could indicate a bigger problem. Persistent resets may point to airflow issues, dirty sensors, or a failing ignition system. Visit our furnace repair page for help if these problems continue.

How to Reset a Gas Furnace

Follow these steps to safely reset a gas furnace:

Turn Off the Power – Switch off the furnace power. This is usually on the furnace or at the circuit breaker.
Press the Reset Button – Find the reset button, hold it down for 10–15 seconds, then release it.
Turn the Power Back On – After waiting a few moments, turn the power back on and listen for the blower to start.
Observe for Any Issues – If the furnace doesn’t stay on or the reset button trips again, this could indicate a problem with the flame sensor or ignition system. Multiple resets mean it’s time to contact a professional.

For help with recurring issues, Allen Service is available to diagnose and repair any furnace problems in Fort Collins and Northern Colorado.

How to Reset an Electric Furnace

Here’s how to reset an electric furnace:

Turn Off the Power – Turn off the power at the main switch or breaker and wait a few minutes.
Locate the Reset Button – Open the access panel to find the reset button near the blower motor. Press and hold it for 10 seconds.
Restore Power – Turn the power back on and see if the furnace starts normally.

If the electric furnace doesn’t respond, it could mean a malfunctioning heating element or wiring issue. If you need further assistance, our furnace repair services in Fort Collins can help.

Resetting an Oil Furnace

Resetting an oil furnace follows a similar process, but these systems are more sensitive to fuel issues. Here’s what to do:

Turn Off the Power – Shut off the furnace power to avoid any risks.
Find the Oil Furnace Reset Button – Locate the reset button near the burner motor and press it for about 10 seconds.
Turn the Power Back On – Restore the power and observe the furnace. If it doesn’t stay on, avoid pressing the button multiple times as this can flood the burner with oil.

If you encounter trouble with an oil furnace reset, it’s best to call a professional. Allen Service can assist with diagnosing and resolving complex oil furnace issues.

When to Call a Professional

Repeatedly pressing the reset button is a temporary fix and can indicate underlying issues. Call a professional if you experience any of the following:

Frequent Resets – This may suggest a failing ignition system or dirty flame sensor.
Clogged Filters – Blocked filters lead to overheating, requiring frequent resets.
Thermostat Malfunctions – A faulty thermostat might prevent the furnace from staying on.

If your furnace requires constant resets, schedule an inspection. Allen Service offers expert furnace repairs in Fort Collins and Northern Colorado to get to the root of persistent problems.

Tips to Prevent Furnace Resets

Preventing frequent resets is possible with simple furnace maintenance:

Change Filters Regularly – Replacing filters every 1-3 months helps prevent airflow issues and overheating.
Check Thermostat Settings – Make sure your thermostat is functioning correctly to maintain consistent heat.
Schedule Annual Maintenance – Regular inspections can catch small issues early, reducing the need for resets.

Routine maintenance helps extend the life of your furnace and keeps it running smoothly. To set up maintenance, visit our furnace maintenance page.

Trust Allen Service with Your Furnace Care

Knowing how to reset your furnace can be helpful for minor issues, but frequent resets suggest deeper problems. Allen Service is here to provide reliable maintenance and repair in Fort Collins and Northern Colorado. Our experienced team is ready to help keep your home warm and comfortable.

Why Choose Allen Service?

Allen Service has been proudly delivering expert plumbing, heating, and air conditioning services in Northern Colorado for over 60 years. Our commitment to quality, dependability, and customer satisfaction sets us apart. Here’s how we can assist with your plumbing needs:

24/7 Emergency Service: Heating or plumbing problems can strike at any time, and we’re here around the clock to provide prompt assistance.
Certified Technicians: Our skilled, certified professionals are equipped to handle all your furnace maintenance and repair needs.
Affordable Pricing: We offer competitive rates and flexible financing options to ensure you get the repairs or replacements you need without breaking the bank.

Visit our website to learn more about our services. Contact us today to schedule your service or consultation!

How to Reset a Gas & Electric Furnace