How To Reset An Air Conditioner: Quick Troubleshooting Steps

We've all been there. Sometimes the air conditioner is not cold enough, it's making noise, or it isn't turning off on its own. Maybe the last time it happened to your AC, you immediately sought professional help or made a run to the store for a new unit. The next time it happens, it will be different because we're going to teach you how to reset air conditioner and find solutions for other common AC problems.

We can't imagine being stuck with a malfunctioning air conditioning unit in summer. It shouldn’t happen to any of us! So get ready, and let's start fixing.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps: Resetting An Air Conditioner

Before we start learning how to reset air conditioner, let's understand why it's necessary in the first place:

• If the circuit breaker is engaged and the compressor does not start.
  
• If the unit's thermostat is not functioning well and it is not blowing cold air.

A Quick Checklist Before Making A Reset

• Make sure you have a regular, flowing power supply.
  
• In the event of a recent brownout, turn on the light and check its brightness to confirm you are receiving full power.

Steps On How To Reset Air Conditioner

Step 1. Locate the reset button.

• Most air conditioning units have a reset button, usually in red and in a smaller size.
  
• It should be marked as a reset button.
  
• If you are unable to locate it, check the instructions manual, and find the reset button.

Step 2. Press and hold the button for 3 seconds.

• Do the reset in two sets. After pressing and holding for 3 seconds, release and do it again.
  
• Wait for your unit to respond with three beeps. This sound is an indicator that the system will be resetting.

A Quick Checklist Before Making A Reset

Step 1. Shut off your unit's power supply.

Step 2. After shutting off the outdoor compressor unit, switch off the 240-volt circuit in your home's main electrical panel.

Step 3. Unplug the air conditioning unit to ensure it is disconnected from the system.

Step 4. Wait for 20 to 30 minutes before reconnecting. This wait time ensures any charge in the unit dissipates before you start reconnecting to the power grid.

Step 5. Plug the unit back in without switching it on yet.

Step 6. Turn on the switchboard.

Step 7. Switch on the plug point close to your external unit.

Step 8. Ensure your thermostat is on "cool" mode before you switch on your air conditioning unit.

The steps on how to reset air conditioner look simple enough, but a professional should be contacted when your unit encounters the following:

• If your circuit breaker keeps malfunctioning and takes a while to cool down.
  
• If the breaker no longer has a protective covering.
  
• If the wires of your outdoor compressor unit are exposed to the elements.
  

Resetting your air conditioning unit with the above conditions is dangerous. A professional will be able to fix these serious issues and check on your unit's components.

Air Conditioners Common Problems And Solutions

Learning how to reset air conditioner is just one part of the troubleshooting skills needed to fix an air conditioner. As long as it's safe and the issues can be addressed, you can always do something about malfunctioning air conditioning units.

AC is making a lot of noise

Possible cause:

• A leak on the refrigerant
• Issues with the motor assembly
• The fan motor makes a screeching sound
• Faulty electrical components

Solution:

• There are many reasons for an air conditioning unit to make more noise than normal. Because of the possible causes for the noise, we recommend contacting a professional for a thorough check.

The AC is not blowing cold air anymore

Possible cause:

• Dirty air filters that limit cooling power and freeze the condenser unit.

Solution:

• Change the air filter at least once a month.

The AC refuses to turn ON

Possible cause:

• Non-functioning thermostat batteries
• Wrong thermostat settings
• A tripped circuit breaker

Solution:

• Replace non-functioning thermostat batteries
  
• Ensure the cooling mode is on with the temperature settings by checking the thermostat settings
  
• Reset a tripped circuit breaker by flipping it on and then off and then on again

A leaking AC refrigerant

Possible results of a leaking refrigerant:

• high energy consumption
• damaged compressor
• poor efficiency
• freezing coils
• uneven cooling and varied temperature

Solution:

• Schedule a regular inspection on your air conditioner to check refrigerant leaks.

Failure of AC electric controls

Possible cause:

• Constantly switching the AC on and off
• Connection problems

Solution:

• Check on the electrical connections of your AC to identify the issue.

AC leaking too much water outside

Note: Leaking during hot and humid days is normal. It is also considered normal leaking if the leaking water is melt from a frozen unit.

Other possible causes:

• Wrong installation
• Dirty filters
• Low coolant levels
• Blocked drain pipe

Solution:

• After identifying the problem, address it accordingly, whether cleaning the filters or clearing the drain pipe.

The AC's evaporator coil is frozen

Possible cause:

• Insufficient air is needed for proper operation.
• Blocked ducts and vents
• Dirty filters
• Malfunctioning fan

Solution:

• Ensure a clean air filter is used for excellent airflow

The AC's drain problem

Possible cause:

• Clogged with dirt, dust, or algae
• Accumulation of mold, mildew, and fungus
• AC's with poor mounted level

Solution:

• Schedule a regular cleaning and inspection on your drain line
  
• Make sure the AC is mounted level.
  

Conclusion

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