Furnace reset buttons are essential safety devices built into many heating systems to protect the equipment from overheating or malfunctioning. The Armstrong Air furnace reset button serves a similar function, offering homeowners a way to quickly address certain furnace issues without requiring professional intervention. Understanding when and how to use this reset button can help maintain furnace efficiency and safety during cold months.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Safety manual reset switch for overheating protection |
| Location | Furnace blower motor housing or near control panel |
| Common Causes for Reset | Overheating, power surges, motor overload |
| Reset Procedure | Turn off power, wait, press/reset button, restart furnace |
| When to Call a Professional | Frequent resets needed, persistent overheating, clanking noises |
What Is the Armstrong Air Furnace Reset Button?
The Armstrong Air furnace reset button acts as a manual override safety feature that shuts down the furnace when it detects hazardous operating conditions such as overheating or electrical faults. This button prevents further damage by cutting power to the furnace’s blower motor or other critical components. When triggered, it must be manually reset for the furnace to resume functioning.
This reset button is a key element to the furnace’s internal safety controls, designed to protect both the equipment and residents by preventing fires and mechanical failure.
Where to Find the Reset Button on Armstrong Air Furnaces
Typically, the reset button on Armstrong Air furnaces is found on or near the blower motor housing inside the unit. It is a small, often red or black button labeled “Reset.” Homeowners should ensure the furnace power is off before inspecting. Accessing the reset button usually involves:
- Turning off the furnace power switch or circuit breaker
- Removing the front furnace panel to reach the blower compartment
- Looking for a button located on the blower motor frame or adjacent electrical components
Locating the reset button is important for quick troubleshooting during furnace faults. If unsure, the furnace manual or Armstrong Air’s customer support can provide specific guidance per model.
Common Causes for Armstrong Air Furnace Reset Button Trips
The reset button typically activates due to safety concerns, primarily related to overheating or electrical issues. Some common reasons include:
- Overheated blower motor: Caused by blocked airflow from dirty filters, closed vents, or blower malfunction.
- Electrical overload: Power surges or circuit faults can cause the motor to draw excess current triggering the reset button.
- Faulty motor or capacitor: Components that wear out over time may cause the motor to stall or overheat.
- Dirty or faulty flame sensor: Incorrect sensor readings can potentially cause system errors requiring a reset.
Identifying the root cause of the reset trip helps in addressing furnace health and avoiding recurrent safety shutdowns.
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How to Properly Reset the Armstrong Air Furnace
When the reset button trips, it indicates an underlying issue that has caused the furnace to shut down for safety reasons. To reset and safely restore operation:
- Turn off Furnace Power: Switch off the furnace power at the thermostat and/or the circuit breaker panel to ensure no electrical hazards.
- Wait a Few Minutes: Allow the blower motor to cool down if it was overheating—typically 5 to 10 minutes.
- Locate the Reset Button: Open the furnace panel and find the reset button near the blower motor housing.
- Press the Reset Button: Firmly press the button once; you should feel or hear a click.
- Restore Power and Test: Turn the furnace power back on and initiate a heat call at the thermostat. Observe the furnace operation for normal startup.
If the furnace does not restart or the reset button trips again immediately, this indicates a persistent problem requiring professional repair.
Troubleshooting Tips for Reset Button Issues
For homeowners encountering frequent trips of the Armstrong Air furnace reset button, some preliminary troubleshooting steps can include:
- Check and Replace Air Filters: Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow causing overheating.
- Inspect Vents and Registers: Make sure all supply vents and return air pathways are open and unobstructed.
- Clean the Blower Motor and Interior: Dust accumulation can impede motor function and cause heat buildup.
- Look for Electrical Issues: Inspect power connections, wiring, and capacitors for signs of damage or corrosion.
- Monitor for Strange Noises or Smells: Any unusual sound or burning odor indicates a deeper mechanical or electrical fault.
Regular maintenance is critical to reducing reset button trips and ensuring furnace longevity.
When to Contact a Professional HVAC Technician
While resetting the furnace may restore functionality briefly, persistent or frequent activations of the reset button signal serious issues. It is advisable to call a qualified HVAC professional if:
- The reset button trips multiple times over a short period
- The furnace overheats rapidly after reset
- There are unusual noises, burning smells, or visible smoke
- The furnace blower motor fails to run even after reset
- Electrical components or thermostats appear faulty
Professional technicians have the expertise and tools to conduct thorough diagnostics, repair or replace defective parts, and verify safe furnace operation.
Maintaining Your Armstrong Air Furnace to Prevent Reset Button Trips
Proper upkeep and periodic inspection of an Armstrong Air furnace can reduce the chances of reset button activation. Steps to maintain your furnace include:
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- Replace or clean furnace air filters every 1-3 months
- Keep vents and ductwork free of blockages and debris
- Schedule annual professional furnace tune-ups
- Check and clean the blower motor and internal components
- Ensure electrical connections are secure and undamaged
Each of these actions improves airflow, prevents overheating, and ensures electrical components operate within safe limits, reducing the need to reset.