Whether you have an electric, gas, or oil furnace, knowing how to reset each one of them is key to avoiding any unnecessary expenditures down the line. Don't worry if you're at a loss as to how to reset your Ruud furnace. We did all the heavy lifting to bring you the best answer.
Identifying what kind of Ruud furnace you have should be the first step. The most basic of their models has at least three buttons and all you need to do is click the off button. Afterward, wait for a couple of seconds before clicking the power button to turn it back on.
It's that simple. Of course, there are also other methods for resetting your furnace in case it doesn't have a power button. In that event, you would need to find where the reset button is located. Continue reading to find out more.
What Is A Furnace Reset Button?
The reset button is there in case of emergencies, in the event that the furnace needs to be shut down. Such examples include when a furnace becomes too hot or if there is a power interruption in the electrical system.
Normally, a reset button is colored red or yellow, making it easy to spot. On top of that, it is usually found in a prominent place where it's easy to see so you won't have any trouble looking for it. Depending on what type of system you have, the button is usually labeled as "reset," "off," or "resetting," in some cases.
First, you should always remember to turn off the circuit breaker controlling the furnace before attempting to press the reset button. Afterward, simply press the reset button again to turn it back on. However, in the event that the furnace shuts off automatically despite pressing the reset button, do not repeatedly press the button as it may damage your furnace. Instead, call in an HVAC technician.
Where Is The Reset Button On A Ruud Furnace?
Ruud is one of the few manufacturers that puts the reset button on the outside of the furnace, near the bottom of the outdoor heat pumps and air conditioners. Since it is not possible to reset their furnaces remotely unlike newer models, this makes physically resetting each furnace rather easy.
For their electric furnace, though, the reset button is commonly found near the right side of the control panel. Always remember to pull the plug when resetting this sort of unit to avoid any problems.
When it comes to other furnaces, the reset buttons are either conveniently found on the top of the unit, which is usually right against the wall, or near where the power cable is located. On some units where a combustion air intake is included, the reset button can be found on the bottom panel.
Of course, depending on the furnace design, it may still take a while for you to find where the reset button is located. In the event that you can't find it, consult the furnace's manual or call an HVAC expert for assistance.
How To Reset An Electric Furnace
In the event that your furnace doesn't have a power button to switch off, make sure to shut down the circuit breaker that controls the furnace. Then open the blower housing and press the reset button until it clicks. Turn the breaker on to restore power to the furnace.
How To Reset A Gas Furnace
Turn off the power supply to the furnace by shutting down the circuit breaker connected to it. Next, press the reset button on the furnace that is normally located inside the blower compartment, but be cautious as the housing tends to get hot. Turn the power back on and make sure to return any covers that you had to remove.
How To Reset An Oil Furnace
Simply pressing the reset button is all that's necessary in case of a power outage. However, if the furnace runs out of oil, you'll have to first fill the oil tank and bleed the fuel line before turning it on, opening the bleeder valve before pressing the reset button. This should be enough to trigger the furnace to start and when it does, close the bleeder valve.
What Can Cause A Reset Button To Trip?
Cases where the reset button would suddenly pop up are common and are usually caused by a variety of reasons, some of which are as follows:
- Dirty air filter - Dirt would block the airflow and in some cases, you may need to replace the filter.
- Dirty flame sensor - All you need to do is to clean it thoroughly.
- Clogged fuel lines - Make sure to properly unclog all the bits and pieces that may have lodged in the fuel line.
- Overheating - Let the furnace cool off before attempting to restart it.
To avoid the issues above, make sure to regularly maintain your furnace. Consult a technician when needed as furnaces can present serious problems, especially to those who are not familiar with the correct procedures.
How Long Do Ruud Furnaces Last?
Even though there are some furnaces that could last for up to 40 years, those kinds of units are quite rare. Typically, the average lifespan of a furnace is at least 15 years with proper yearly maintenance. As such, it is important to never neglect your furnace, especially when it's an older model and has been around for a decade or so.
However, if the furnace needs to be repaired frequently, then it may be time to replace your furnace. Especially with furnaces that are over a decade in age, replacing them rather than trying to repair them would end up saving you more money.
How To Extend The Lifespan Of Your Furnace
Even though furnaces could last for well over a decade, there are many ways for them to break down well before their life expectancy. These are some of the factors that you need to consider if you want to extend the lifespan of your unit:
- Equipment Quality - Depending on the quality of the unit, you can predict just how long it would last until you would need to replace it. Consult an expert to determine which grade unit is best for your home and needs.
- Annual Maintenance - Regular maintenance is needed in order to keep the system up and running, especially during months of harsh weather. Schedule one at least twice a year, one in the spring and one in the fall, in order to ensure that every mechanical piece is running smoothly.
- Usage - How often you need to use your heating system will be the key to knowing how long it would last. A unit that is often used, especially for those in a colder climate, would most likely wear down faster. As such, it is imperative that they must be used and maintained properly in order to slow down the effects of frequently using your furnace.
- Humidity - In certain locations, high humidity would prove to be a challenge when it comes to keeping your furnace free of rust. Controlling the humidity levels inside your home is the first step to decreasing moisture and protecting your furnace from rust.
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- Filters - Keeping the filters clean would result in better heaters. Especially in cold months when the furnace is running more than usual, remember to replace the filters monthly in order to avoid airflow restriction.
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In Closing
Resetting a Ruud furnace can be as easy as pressing a button. But in most cases, it is best to call in for professional help. Especially in cases where you'll be handling a lot of volatile and dangerous substances, it is best if you leave it to those who know a little bit more when it comes to troubleshooting any problems you might have with your furnace.
While saving money on repairs by doing it on your own might sound appealing, it is best to value your safety above all else. Always consider seeking consultation when it comes to dealing with things that require the knowledge of an expert.
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