Few home heating issues are more frustrating than waking up to a cold house and realizing your furnace won’t start. For Lennox homeowners, questions often arise such as: Where is the reset button on a Lennox furnace? or How do I reset a Lennox furnace safely?
In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about the Lennox furnace reset button, including its location, how to perform a reset, common troubleshooting scenarios, and preventive maintenance tips. While the Goodman MBVK electric furnace operates differently, many of the troubleshooting principles for blower motors, limit switches, and electrical safety are the same across furnace brands.
Why Your Lennox Furnace Needs a Reset
Modern furnaces, including Lennox units, include safety features that protect the furnace from damage or unsafe operation. One of these features is the reset button, sometimes associated specifically with the blower motor. Common scenarios that trigger a reset include:
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Overheating due to restricted airflow
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Electrical faults in the blower motor
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Failed ignition attempts or high-limit trips
When the reset button trips, it shuts off power to the furnace to prevent further damage. Simply pressing the button without addressing the underlying issue may result in repeated trips, component damage, or unsafe conditions. For general HVAC safety guidance, see Air Conditioning Contractors of America.
Lennox Furnace Reset Button Location
Locating the reset button is the first step in troubleshooting. On most Lennox furnaces:
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The blower motor reset button is often a small red or orange button on the motor housing.
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It may be labeled as “Manual Reset” or “High Limit Reset” depending on the model.
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Accessible without removing major panels on newer units, but older or compact units may require opening the blower compartment.
Knowing the Lennox furnace reset button location helps ensure safe and efficient resets. For detailed schematics, Lennox manuals provide clear illustrations of reset button placement. You can also consult Lennox Residential Manuals.
How to Reset a Lennox Furnace Safely
Once you’ve located the Lennox blower motor reset button, follow these steps:
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Turn off power – Shut off the furnace at the breaker or disconnect switch to avoid electrical hazards.
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Allow the system to cool – If the furnace tripped due to overheating, let the motor and components cool for several minutes.
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Press the reset button – Press firmly until you feel a click. Avoid holding it down continuously.
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Restore power – Flip the breaker or reconnect power.
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Test the furnace – Set the thermostat to call for heat and observe startup.
If the furnace trips immediately after resetting, do not attempt multiple resets. This usually indicates a deeper issue requiring professional inspection, such as:
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Blocked air filters or vents
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Faulty limit switches
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Blower motor failure
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Electrical faults
Troubleshooting the Lennox Furnace Reset Button
When the reset button on a Lennox furnace trips frequently, understanding why is critical. Common causes include:
1. Restricted Airflow
Dirty air filters, closed supply vents, or blocked ducts can overheat the furnace, causing the blower motor or high-limit reset button to trip. Regular filter replacement and ensuring unobstructed airflow can prevent this problem.
2. Blower Motor Issues
A failing blower motor may overheat or draw excessive current, causing the reset button to trip. Signs include:
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Furnace blower not starting
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Strange humming or rattling noises
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Intermittent operation
For guidance on diagnosing blower motor issues, see HVAC School’s blower motor troubleshooting tips.
3. Electrical Problems
Loose wiring, burnt contacts, or faulty circuit boards can cause the furnace to trip. If your Lennox furnace reset button trips immediately after pressing, inspect the wiring carefully or contact a technician.
4. Limit Switch or Safety Device Malfunction
The reset button often interacts with high-limit switches to prevent overheating. A defective limit switch can falsely trip the system. Testing or replacing these switches may be necessary.
Step-by-Step Furnace Reset Checklist
Before pressing the reset button, follow this checklist to ensure safe and effective operation:
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Inspect the air filter – Replace if dirty.
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Check vents and ductwork – Ensure no obstructions exist.
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Examine the blower – Listen for abnormal sounds or check for overheating.
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Confirm power supply – Make sure breakers and disconnects are on.
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Inspect wiring – Look for loose or burnt wires.
Following these steps prevents repeated trips and protects your furnace from damage.
How the Goodman MBVK Electric Furnace Compares
While Lennox furnaces often include a manual reset button for safety, the Goodman MBVK electric furnace operates differently:
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MBVK uses staged electric heating elements controlled by a sequencer and monitored automatically.
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Safety cutoffs are integrated and usually reset automatically, without a manual button.
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Both systems rely on proper airflow, functional blowers, and intact electrical circuits to deliver heat efficiently.
Understanding these differences ensures the correct troubleshooting approach for each furnace type.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
Preventing trips of the Lennox furnace reset button involves regular maintenance:
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Change filters monthly or quarterly depending on usage
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Schedule annual professional inspections to check blower motors, limit switches, and electrical connections
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Clean ducts and blower compartments to maintain airflow
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Verify thermostat function to ensure accurate heat calls
Routine maintenance increases efficiency, reduces energy costs, and prevents inconvenient furnace shutdowns.
When to Call a Professional
Homeowners should contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
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The furnace trips immediately after reset
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Reset button trips frequently multiple times per day
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Strange noises, burning smells, or visible electrical issues are present
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Blower motor fails to operate properly
Attempting complex repairs on a furnace without experience can be dangerous. Certified technicians can safely diagnose and resolve troubleshooting Lennox furnace reset button issues.
For locating certified HVAC professionals, see HVAC.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the reset button on a Lennox furnace?
Typically on the blower motor housing, labeled Manual Reset or High Limit Reset, but consult your model’s manual for exact placement.
How often should I press the reset button?
Only when the furnace trips. Repeated resets without addressing the cause may damage components.
Can I reset while the furnace is hot?
No. Always power down and allow the system to cool before pressing the reset button.
Why does my furnace keep tripping?
Frequent trips indicate underlying problems such as airflow restrictions, blower issues, or electrical faults. Professional inspection is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Lennox furnace reset button and its operation is crucial for every homeowner. Knowing how to reset a Lennox furnace, the blower motor reset button location, and safe troubleshooting practices ensures reliable home heating.
Routine maintenance, proper airflow, and timely professional service minimize trips and keep your furnace operating efficiently. While the Goodman MBVK electric furnace uses different safety mechanisms, the principles of airflow, electrical integrity, and proper operation remain the same across systems.
Proper knowledge and preventive maintenance keep your Lennox furnace running safely and efficiently for years to come.
