Many homeowners search for “Tempstar Furnace Reset Button” when a furnace stops working unexpectedly. This article explains what the reset button does, how to find it on different Tempstar models, step-by-step reset procedures, safety precautions, and troubleshooting tips to identify underlying problems that cause repeated lockouts.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Temporarily restore furnace operation after safety trips |
| Common Location | Near burner assembly, on control panel, or on rollout/limit switches |
| When To Use | After obvious safety issue cleared and power cycled; not for repeated resets |
| When To Call Pro | If reset trips again, or if there are gas smells, electrical issues, or visible damage |
What Is The Tempstar Furnace Reset Button?
The Tempstar furnace reset button is a manual safety feature designed to restart the furnace control system after a safety switch or sensor has tripped. On many forced-air furnaces, a red or black push-button resets the limit switch, rollout switch, or a high-temperature safety device. Some newer Tempstar units use electronic control boards and do not have a dedicated reset button.
Why Furnaces Have A Reset Button
Reset buttons exist to protect against unsafe operating conditions such as overheating, flame rollout, blocked venting, or combustion problems. The button prevents automatic restarts in potentially dangerous situations and requires human confirmation that the cause has been inspected and corrected.
Where To Find The Tempstar Furnace Reset Button
Location varies by model. Common places include on the side of the burner compartment, on the furnace control panel, near the flame rollout switches, or mounted on the heat exchanger housing. Some models have a red push-button on the burner access panel or on a safety switch assembly.
Tips For Locating The Button
- Turn off power and remove the furnace front panel to inspect the burner area.
- Look for red or black push buttons near switches or sensors on the heat exchanger.
- Check the furnace manual or model-specific diagram; Tempstar manuals list switch locations.
- If the furnace lacks a visible button, the reset function might be integrated into the control board or require circuit interruption.
Step-By-Step: How To Safely Use The Tempstar Furnace Reset Button
Before attempting a reset, ensure the area is safe and there are no gas odors. Follow these steps to minimize risk and avoid damage.
- Turn Off Power — Switch off the furnace at the thermostat, interior breaker, or service switch to prevent short cycling.
- Check For Gas Smell — If a natural gas or propane odor is present, leave the house and call the gas company or 911. Do not reset.
- Inspect Filter And Vents — Replace dirty filters and ensure supply/return vents and exhaust venting are clear of obstructions.
- Locate The Reset Button — With power off, remove access panels and find the button on the switch assembly or control board area.
- Press The Button — Restore power, then press the reset button once. Some reset buttons require a firm press and release; do not hold for extended periods.
- Observe Operation — Allow the furnace to run through a full ignition cycle. Monitor for unusual noises, repeated lockouts, or error codes on the control board.
- Call A Technician If Needed — If the furnace trips again or performs poorly, contact a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair underlying faults.
Common Reasons The Reset Button Trips
Understanding why the Tempstar furnace reset button trips helps diagnose and fix root causes rather than repeatedly resetting the unit.
Blocked Airflow
Clogged air filters, closed registers, or obstructed return vents cause restricted airflow, forcing the furnace to overheat and trip high-limit safety switches. Regular filter changes reduce this risk.
Flame Rollout Or Heat Exchanger Issues
Flame rollout occurs when flames escape the combustion chamber due to burner misalignment, cracked heat exchanger, or venting problems. Rollout switches trip to prevent fires; replacement and professional inspection are required.
Pressure Switch Or Inducer Motor Failure
Modern furnaces depend on draft inducer motors and pressure switches for safe combustion. If the inducer fails or the pressure switch remains open, the furnace may trip and require reset after repair.
Dirty Flame Sensor Or Ignition Problems
A soiled flame sensor or faulty igniter leads to ignition failure, causing control boards to lock out and require resetting. Cleaning the flame sensor or replacing faulty ignition components often resolves this.
Electrical Issues
Loose wiring, failed relays, or control board faults can cause intermittent tripping. Visual inspection for burned connectors and securing loose wires helps, but complex electrical issues require trained technicians.
Model Variations: When There Is No Dedicated Reset Button
Some Tempstar furnaces, especially newer models, do not include a manual reset button. Instead, they use electronic lockout logic that requires cycling power or reading diagnostic codes to clear faults. Refer to the furnace data plate and owner’s manual to determine the correct reset procedure.
Safety Precautions Before Resetting
Resetting a furnace without addressing the underlying issue can be dangerous. Follow these safety guidelines to protect property and occupants.
- If At Any Time There Is A Gas Smell, Evacuate And Call Authorities.
- Never Reset Continuously; Multiple Trips Indicate A Fault.
- Avoid DIY Repairs On Gas Or Combustion Components Unless Qualified.
- Use Manufacturer Parts For Replacements To Preserve Safety Certifications.
Troubleshooting Checklist After A Reset
If the reset succeeds but issues persist, systematic troubleshooting helps isolate the problem before calling a technician.
- Check Furnace Error Codes — Many Tempstar control boards blink LEDs to indicate specific faults. Document the blink pattern for service diagnostics.
- Measure Voltage And Continuity — Ensure 120/240V and 24V control signals are present where expected.
- Test Draft Inducer And Pressure Switch — Confirm the inducer runs and the pressure switch closes during startup.
- Inspect Flame Sensor And Igniter — Clean the flame sensor with steel wool or emery cloth; verify igniter resistance per spec.
- Confirm Venting And Combustion Air — Clear bird nests, debris, or blockages from vent terminations.
When To Call A Professional HVAC Technician
Call a licensed HVAC technician when the reset button trips repeatedly, when there are combustion concerns, or when electrical or gas components are involved. A technician can perform a comprehensive combustion analysis, heat exchanger inspection, and safety system testing.
Replacement Parts And Typical Repair Costs
Common parts associated with reset trips include flame sensors, limit switches, rollout switches, pressure switches, igniters, and control boards. Costs vary by part and labor region. As a rough guide, flame sensor replacement often ranges from $100–$250, limit or rollout switch replacement $150–$350, and control board replacement $400–$900 installed.
Preventive Maintenance To Avoid Reset Trips
Regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of encountering the reset button. Recommended steps include annual professional tune-ups, quarter-turn filter checks, ensuring clear venting, and keeping the furnace area free of combustibles.
- Change or Clean Filters Every 1–3 Months.
- Schedule Annual HVAC Service With A Licensed Technician.
- Keep Vents And Flue Terminations Clear Of Debris.
- Inspect For Unusual Odors Or Noises Between Services.
How To Read Tempstar Furnace Error Codes
Many Tempstar furnaces provide LED blink codes that help diagnose faults. Typical sequences indicate flame failure, pressure switch issues, limit trips, or control board faults. Locate the service sticker or manual for model-specific blink code charts and record the pattern for technicians.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Tempstar Furnace Reset Button
Can A Homeowner Reset The Furnace Safely?
Yes, if no gas smell or obvious danger exists and the homeowner follows safety steps. Resetting once after confirming safe conditions is acceptable. Repeated trips require professional service.
How Many Times Can One Reset The Furnace?
Manufacturers do not recommend multiple resets. If the furnace trips more than once, additional resets can mask failure modes and risk damage or unsafe operation.
My Furnace Has No Reset Button; What Should I Do?
Consult the manual. For some units, cycling the power at the breaker for a short period clears lockouts. If uncertain, contact Tempstar support or a licensed technician.
Key Takeaways For Homeowners Searching “Tempstar Furnace Reset Button”
Finding and using the Tempstar furnace reset button can restart a unit after a safety trip, but it is a corrective action, not a fix. Always check for gas smells, inspect airflow and venting, and limit resets to a single attempt until a professional diagnoses the root cause. Regular maintenance prevents many reset-related problems.
| Action | Recommended Timing |
|---|---|
| Change Filter | Every 1–3 Months |
| Annual HVAC Tune-Up | Once Per Year |
| Reset Attempt | One Time After Safety Check |
| Call HVAC Professional | If Reset Trips Again Or If Gas/Electrical Issues Present |
Resources And Manufacturer Support
For model-specific guidance, consult the Tempstar owner’s manual, the furnace data plate, or the official Tempstar/ICP dealer network. Keeping the furnace model number and serial number handy speeds up support and part identification.
If persistent problems occur, document error codes and conditions before the technician arrives to enable faster diagnostics.