How to Reset Air Conditioner (All Types)

Resetting your air conditioner can fix a surprising number of problems — unresponsive controls, error codes, units that won't start after a power outage, and systems stuck in a fault state. Here's how to reset every type of AC unit correctly.

Why Would You Need to Reset an AC?

• The unit stopped working after a power outage or surge
• An error code appeared on the display
• The AC is unresponsive to the remote or controls
• The unit tripped a safety switch (thermal cutout or float switch) and won't restart
• After cleaning or maintenance, the unit won't start normally
• The AC is behaving erratically (cycling on and off, not reaching temperature)

Method 1: Power Cycle (Works for All AC Types)

The simplest and most universal reset method:

1. Turn the AC off using the remote or control panel
2. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet (for window/portable units) OR switch off the circuit breaker for the AC (for split/central systems)
3. Wait at least 30 seconds — this allows the capacitors to discharge and the control board to fully reset
4. Restore power (plug back in or flip the breaker)
5. Wait another 3 minutes before turning the AC on — this protects the compressor from restarting under pressure
6. Turn the AC on and test normal operation

Tip: For window and portable AC units, a GHome Smart Plug makes power cycling easy — turn power off and on via the app without reaching behind furniture. The Govee Smart Plug with Energy Monitoring also lets you confirm the unit is drawing power normally after the reset.

Method 2: Reset Button (Window & Portable AC)

Many window and portable AC units have a dedicated reset button, usually located:

• On the power cord plug (a small button between the prongs)
• On the control panel of the unit
• Inside a small pinhole on the unit (requires a paperclip to press)

Press and hold the reset button for 3–5 seconds until you hear a beep or see the display reset. Then wait 3 minutes before turning the unit on.

Method 3: Circuit Breaker Reset (Split & Central AC)

1. Go to your electrical panel and find the breaker labeled for the AC (usually 15–60 amp double-pole breaker)
2. Switch it fully to the Off position
3. Wait 30 seconds
4. Switch it back to On
5. Wait 3 minutes before turning the AC on at the thermostat

If the breaker trips again immediately after resetting, there's an underlying electrical fault — don't keep resetting it. Call a technician.

Method 4: Thermostat Reset

Sometimes the issue is with the thermostat rather than the AC unit itself:

1. Remove the thermostat from the wall (or open the battery compartment)
2. Remove the batteries and wait 30 seconds
3. Reinsert the batteries
4. Reprogram your temperature schedule if needed

For smart thermostats, check the manufacturer's app for a reset option — most have a factory reset function in the settings menu.

After Resetting: What to Check

• Set the mode to Cool and target temperature below room temperature
• Listen for the compressor starting (a deeper hum from the outdoor unit)
• Check that cool air is coming from the vents within 5–10 minutes
• If an error code reappears, note the code and look it up in your owner's manual

When a Reset Won't Fix It

A reset clears temporary faults and control board errors. It won't fix:

• A dirty filter or clogged drain line (clean these first)
• A refrigerant leak
• A failed compressor or capacitor
• Damaged wiring or electrical components

If the AC fails again shortly after a reset, the underlying problem needs to be diagnosed and repaired. See our troubleshooting guides for AC not cooling, AC not turning on, and AC freezing up.

A proper reset takes less than 5 minutes and fixes many common AC issues. Always wait the full 3 minutes after restoring power before turning the unit on — this protects the compressor and gives the control board time to initialize correctly.