A Step-by-Step Guide on Resetting a Carrier Furnace

If you own a Carrier furnace, you already know it’s a high-quality, reliable heating system designed for efficiency and comfort. However, even the best systems can occasionally require a reset.

Learning when a reset is the appropriate action to troubleshoot your Carrier furnace and how to do it yourself can save you time and money by avoiding an unnecessary service call. 

In this guide, Carrier Northwest will walk you through the steps to reset a Carrier furnace to troubleshoot common issues. This will help ensure your system is back to running smoothly, keeping you warm throughout the colder months in Oregon, Washington, and Montana.

When To Reset a Carrier Furnace

A reset is rarely needed, but there are a few scenarios that you may encounter as a homeowner when it might be needed. Resets typically resolve whatever the malfunction may be, meaning you can return to comfort and not have to find a Carrier Northwest dealer.

Here are a few scenarios where resetting your Carrier furnace could be the solution:

  • Power Outages: If your home experiences a power surge or outage, your furnace might enter a safety lockout mode. In this case, a reset can get things back on track.
  • Thermostat Issues: If your thermostat is malfunctioning or miscommunicating with the furnace, resetting the system can help re-establish the connection.
  • Minor Error Codes: Modern Carrier furnaces are equipped with diagnostic codes to notify you of problems. Less severe error codes, such as a blocked vent or a dirty filter, are issues that can be resolved with a quick fix and a simple reset.
  • Ignition Failure: Sometimes, the furnace may fail to ignite properly, leading to a shutdown. A reset can clear any temporary malfunctions.

If the issue continues after a reset or if you are experiencing a more serious malfunction, it’s crucial to contact a professional. Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers are readily available for repairs and maintenance, ensuring expert care for your system. Find a Carrier Northwest dealer near you; our network expands across Oregon, Washington, and parts of Montana. 

To keep your system running smoothly and prevent problems from escalating, it is recommended that you schedule annual maintenance for your furnace. Routine inspections help ensure all components function optimally and address any concerns before they become costly repairs—or lead to needing a reset.

How To Reset a Carrier Furnace

Here’s how you can safely reset your Carrier furnace:

1. Turn Off the Power to the Furnace

Before starting any furnace process, ensure the power supply is turned off. This will not only protect the system but also keep you safe. Find the furnace’s dedicated power switch, usually mounted on the furnace itself or a nearby wall—it looks like a light switch.

2. Turn Off the Thermostat

Next, head to your home’s thermostat and make sure it’s off. This will prevent the system from trying to activate while you’re working on the reset process.

3. Wait 5 to 10 Minutes

Once you’ve turned off both the power and the circuit breaker, wait a few minutes before turning anything back on. This allows the furnace’s internal systems to fully reset and clear any error messages or lockout modes.

4. Restore Power 

After the waiting period, it’s time to bring the furnace back to life. Turn the thermostat back on and set it to your desired temperature. Make sure it’s set to “Heat” mode so the furnace knows to start working.

5. Monitor the Furnace

Once everything is powered up and the thermostat is set, monitor your furnace for any signs of continued issues. You should hear the system kick on, and within a few minutes, warm air should start circulating through your home.

NOTE: If this does not work, there is a hard reset button inside the furnace’s blower compartment. It may be difficult to reach or see, but your owner’s manual should clearly mark its location. Follow steps one through three above, then locate and press this reset button for 5 to 10 seconds. Return power to the furnace and monitor it for any other signs of malfunctions.

Carrier Dealers Near You

Knowing how to reset your Carrier furnace can save you a lot of time and stress during unexpected system issues. By following these simple steps from the experts at Carrier Northwest, you can often resolve minor problems yourself. 

However, if your furnace continues to malfunction or if you encounter any complex issues, it’s always best to contact a furnace repair company for expert assistance. Proper maintenance and timely repairs will ensure your furnace operates smoothly and efficiently, keeping your home warm and comfortable year-round.

Use our Find a Dealer link to browse Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers across the Pacific Northwest. Our directory lists heating and cooling companies in Oregon, Washington, and parts of Montana.