Homeowners searching for rheem furnace reset button location, rheem furnace reset button, or how to reset a rheem furnace are often dealing with a furnace that has stopped heating. A tripped furnace can be stressful, especially during the cold season, and the reset button is typically the first place homeowners look.
In this article, I’ll explain:
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Where the Rheem furnace reset button is usually located
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How and when to safely reset a Rheem furnace
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Common causes that trigger a furnace lockout
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How the Goodman MBVK electric furnace differs from fuel-fired furnaces and why it doesn’t require a reset button
Understanding these differences is essential to avoid unnecessary service calls, prevent damage, and keep your home warm safely.
What Is a Furnace Reset Button?
The furnace reset button is a safety feature built into most gas and oil furnaces. Its main purpose is to shut down the furnace after a fault—usually a failed ignition or safety limit trip—so the system does not continue operating in an unsafe condition.
For Rheem furnaces, the reset button is typically located on the primary control box or ignition module, often on the furnace burner assembly. Pressing the button restores power to the control board and allows the furnace to attempt ignition again.
It’s important to note: the reset button is not a solution to recurring problems. Repeatedly pressing it without diagnosing the root cause can cause damage, excessive fuel usage, or even safety hazards.
For general furnace safety and operational guidance, resources such as Energy.gov provide detailed insights into residential furnace operation.
Rheem Furnace Reset Button Location
Finding the reset button on a Rheem furnace depends on the model, but it is generally located:
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On the front panel of the furnace, often behind a removable door
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Near the burner assembly or control board
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Marked as “Reset” or colored red for visibility
Before pressing the reset button, you should turn off the furnace at the thermostat and wait at least 10–15 minutes to allow any tripped safety controls to cool down. This prevents the furnace from trying to ignite while still in a fault condition.
For visual guides and diagrams, HVAC.com offers detailed resources for identifying Rheem furnace components, including reset buttons.
How to Reset a Rheem Furnace
Resetting a Rheem furnace is generally straightforward but must be done safely:
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Turn the thermostat to “Off.” This stops the furnace call for heat.
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Switch off power at the furnace or breaker. Ensure the system is completely de-energized.
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Locate the reset button. Usually red and labeled, on the control board or burner assembly.
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Press the button once. A single press is sufficient; holding it down is not recommended.
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Wait a few seconds and restore power.
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Turn the thermostat back on. The furnace should attempt to ignite.
If the furnace fails to ignite after one reset, do not press the button multiple times. Instead, diagnose the underlying cause. Repeated resets without solving the issue can flood the combustion chamber, damage components, and create safety hazards.
Common Reasons You Might Need to Reset a Rheem Furnace
Homeowners often discover the reset button after a lockout. Common causes include:
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Ignition failure – The furnace igniter fails to light gas on the first attempt.
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Flame sensor issues – Dirty or faulty flame sensors may prevent combustion.
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High-limit trips – Overheating due to restricted airflow can trigger safety shutdowns.
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Blocked vents or flues – Combustion air restrictions prevent proper operation.
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Gas supply interruptions – Low pressure or closed valves can prevent ignition.
Repeated resets without addressing these issues can exacerbate the problem. For troubleshooting tips, Jacobs Heating and Air Conditioning provides guides for diagnosing gas and electric furnace issues.
How the Goodman MBVK Electric Furnace Is Different
Unlike a Rheem gas furnace, the Goodman MBVK electric furnace does not use combustion. This eliminates the need for a reset button entirely. Here’s why:
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No gas or oil – No fuel, no ignition, no flame
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Heating elements instead of burners – Heat is generated electrically and instantly
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Automatic safety cutoffs – High-limit switches prevent overheating and reset themselves automatically
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No flame sensors or ignition cycles – No risk of lockout due to ignition failure
Essentially, the MBVK removes many of the failure points that require manual resets in gas systems. When heat stops in an MBVK furnace, it is usually an electrical or airflow issue rather than a combustion problem.
Common Electric Furnace Issues That Mimic Gas Furnace Lockouts
Even though the MBVK does not have a reset button, some scenarios may resemble a gas furnace shutdown:
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Tripped breaker – Check the electrical panel; restoring power may restart the furnace.
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High-limit trip due to restricted airflow – Ensure vents are open and filters are clean.
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Failed heating elements – Elements may need replacement if they stop producing heat.
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Control board fault – Rare, but a malfunctioning board may prevent the furnace from energizing elements.
For safe troubleshooting and maintenance, HVAC.com provides step-by-step instructions specific to electric furnaces.
Advantages of Electric Furnaces Over Fuel-Based Systems
Electric furnaces like the MBVK offer several advantages over traditional gas furnaces:
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Safety – No combustion, no carbon monoxide risk
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Lower maintenance – No igniter or flame sensor to clean or replace
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Consistent heat – Instant electrical heating eliminates failed ignition cycles
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Simple installation – No venting required, ideal for tight spaces
For homeowners upgrading from older fuel-based systems, the MBVK provides a reliable, low-maintenance heating solution suitable for manufactured homes, apartments, or conventional houses.
Maintenance Tips for the MBVK Electric Furnace
Although it doesn’t require ignition resets, the MBVK still benefits from routine care:
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Change filters regularly – Keeps airflow optimal and prevents high-limit trips.
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Inspect heating elements – Ensure elements are intact and free from corrosion.
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Check blower motor operation – A malfunctioning blower can prevent heat distribution.
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Schedule periodic inspections – Electric furnaces are simple but benefit from annual checks.
Following these steps keeps the furnace operating safely, efficiently, and reliably.
Final Thoughts from Jake Lawson
The Rheem furnace reset button is a critical safety feature for gas furnaces, allowing homeowners to restore operation after a lockout. Knowing the reset button location and how to properly reset your furnace can prevent damage and maintain safe operation. However, repeated resets without diagnosing the root cause can be dangerous and costly.
The Goodman MBVK electric furnace removes this complexity entirely. Without combustion, igniters, or flame sensors, there is no reset button to press. Heat delivery is instantaneous, and automatic safety systems protect the equipment and your home.
Understanding the difference between fuel-based and electric furnaces empowers homeowners to troubleshoot properly, maintain their systems effectively, and enjoy safe, consistent heat all winter long.
