When your air conditioner suddenly stops working or isn’t cooling like it should, a quick reset might be all it takes to get things running smoothly again. But before you flip any switches, it’s essential to know when resetting your AC is the right move—and when it’s a sign of a more significant issue.
In this blog, our Charleston HVAC specialists will walk you through resetting your AC unit safely and when you should (or shouldn’t) do it.
Why Would You Need to Reset Your AC?
Your air conditioner has built-in safety features designed to shut it down when something isn’t right. Resetting your AC can help if:
- The AC suddenly shuts off due to a power surge or outage.
- The thermostat isn’t responding even after adjusting the settings.
- Your AC is blowing warm air even though the settings appear correct.
- The system is short-cycling, turning on and off too frequently.
However, if your air conditioning unit regularly needs resetting, that’s a red flag that something else is wrong, such as an electrical issue, a clogged air filter, or a failing component.
How to Reset Your Air Conditioning System in 5 Steps
1. Turn Off Your Thermostat
Before doing anything else, turn off your thermostat to prevent your system from immediately kicking back on after the reset.
2. Locate the Circuit Breaker
Find your home’s electrical panel (breaker box), usually in the garage, basement, or utility room. Look for the breaker labeled “AC” or “HVAC.”
3. Flip the AC Breaker Off
Turn the breaker off and wait for at least 60 seconds. This allows any residual electricity to drain and lets the system fully reset.
4. Turn the Breaker Back On
After waiting, flip the breaker back on. Make sure it’s firmly in place and hasn’t tripped again.
5. Restart the Thermostat
Return to your thermostat, turn it back on, and set it to cool mode at a lower temperature than the current room temperature. Within a few minutes, your AC should start running again.
When You Shouldn’t Reset Your AC
Resetting your AC system won’t fix serious issues. If your AC keeps shutting down or needs constant resets, it could indicate:
- A dirty air filter blocking airflow (replace it if it’s dirty)
- A clogged drain line causing safety shutdowns
- Low refrigerant levels leading to overheating
- A failing compressor or capacitor
- Electrical problems (tripping breakers repeatedly)
If you reset your HVAC system and it still isn’t working correctly, it’s time to call a professional before a minor issue turns into a significant repair.
Need AC Troubleshooting or Repair? Contact Carolina Comfort Specialists!
If your air conditioner keeps shutting down, isn’t cooling properly, or won’t turn back on after a reset, let the pros at Carolina Comfort Specialists take care of it. Our experienced Charleston AC repair technicians can diagnose the issue and quickly restore your system to peak performance. Reach out today!