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Sometimes, the best way to deal with an electronic malfunction is to reset the device. Air conditioning units are not exempt from this rule. Knowing how to reset air conditioner breakers could help resolve certain issues affecting your property’s indoor climate and overall comfort. 

WeatherWise Heating & Cooling is a top provider of AC services in Trout Valley, IL, so we are familiar with cooling unit resets. Our guide below outlines the reasons a reset may be necessary and tips on how to do it.

When Should Trout Valley Homeowners Reset Air Conditioners?

Air conditioning systems can last for nearly two decades, but that doesn’t mean they won’t experience occasional problems. The good news with these HVAC units is that not every complication requires professional intervention. Resetting the equipment is sometimes enough to restore its functionality. 

You might need a manual air conditioning and thermostat reset if your air conditioner is:

  • Short cycling
  • Blowing warm air
  • Failing to maintain consistent temperatures

You should also know how to reset air conditioner breakers in case your HVAC unit trips its circuit breaker. This problem typically happens when electricity surges enough to trigger the breaker. Tripped breakers stop the flow of electricity to devices to reduce the risk of electrical fires, explosions, or damage to appliances. 

Steps for Resetting Air Conditioning Units

If the air conditioning in your Trout Valley home isn’t working correctly, you can follow these five steps to reset your equipment. 

1. Power Down the Cooling System

The first step in learning how to reset air conditioner breakers is to shut off the unit’s power supply. Power down your cooling system and its thermostat to avoid secondary complications, such as circuit breaker damage. Then, look for your property’s electrical panel, which may be located on an exterior wall near the electrical meter or indoors, typically near the basement or garage. 

2. Reset the HVAC Breaker Switch

Once you find the panel, look for the air conditioner breaker switch and flip it. Wait about 30 seconds before reflipping the switch. Allow your air conditioner about 30 minutes to cool down before restoring power to it and its thermostat. 

3. Engage the Isolator Switch

In some cases, flipping the HVAC breaker is enough to restart the system’s operation and performance, but not in every case. If you try the first couple of steps but continue experiencing problems with your air conditioner, it’s time to try its isolator switch. 

The isolator switch is a safety measure that disconnects an air conditioner from its power supply, allowing it to undergo repairs and maintenance safely. Look for the switch, which is usually between the cooling system and main electrical supply, and engage it. Wait another 30 minutes before turning it back on to ensure proper discharge of accumulated electrostatic charges.

4. Use the Air Conditioner’s Reset Button

Learning how to reset air conditioner breakers doesn’t stop at electrical panels and isolator switches. Sometimes, the air conditioning unit itself needs a reset. 

Your air conditioner in Trout Valley should have a small, red reset button. Most systems have them on their outdoor condenser units.

If the other reset methods fail, locate and press the direct reset button on your air conditioner. If all goes well, this step will activate your unit’s compressor. Listen for the sound of the motor, and place your hand over several air vents to ensure the equipment is dispersing chilled air throughout your home.

5. Contact the Experts

If nothing works to restore your air conditioning, it’s time to contact HVAC professionals in Trout Valley. Unfortunately, HVAC resets can be helpful when troubleshooting malfunctions, but they aren’t always effective. 

Thankfully, you can rely on the expertise of heating and cooling technicians to identify the root cause of your cooling system’s issues. Using years of direct experience and diagnostic tools, these professionals can identify problems even in their early stages and implement their ideal solutions. If the problem is too complex or costly to repair, they may recommend upgrading the air conditioner entirely. 

Need Help With Your Air Conditioning in Trout Valley? Turn to WeatherWise Heating & Cooling

Whether you need tips on maximizing AC efficiency during the summer or help learning how to reset air conditioner breakers, our team is the one to call. WeatherWise Heating & Cooling, along with our NATE-certified technicians, has over 50 years of experience providing HVAC solutions to residents throughout Trout Valley, Illinois. We offer affordable services, prompt responses, and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. 

Don’t fret over a malfunctioning air conditioner. Contact WeatherWise Heating & Cooling today for an appointment!