Many homeowners experience frustration when their furnace stops producing heat. One of the most commonly searched topics is the Rheem furnace reset button location, followed closely by how to reset a Rheem furnace or simply Rheem furnace reset button. Understanding these reset buttons—and how they relate to modern electric furnaces like the Goodman MBVK—can save time, prevent damage, and improve home comfort.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explain the purpose of reset buttons, where to find the Rheem furnace reset button, how to reset it safely, and how this knowledge translates to modern electric systems.
What is the Purpose of a Furnace Reset Button?
A furnace reset button serves as a safety device. Its function is to interrupt furnace operation when a fault is detected, such as:
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Burner fails to ignite
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Flame is not detected
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Overheating occurs
By pressing the reset button, the homeowner is essentially telling the system, “I acknowledge the issue and want to try restarting safely.” Repeated resets without addressing the underlying problem can damage the furnace or create safety hazards.
Electric furnaces like the Goodman MBVK do not have traditional reset buttons, but the logic is similar: sensors and control boards automatically interrupt heating if unsafe conditions occur.
For an overview of furnace safety and proper reset procedures, the U.S. Department of Energy provides detailed guidance.
Rheem Furnace Reset Button Location
For Rheem furnaces, the reset button is typically located on the blower motor assembly. Depending on the model, it can also be on the front panel of the furnace or near the control board.
Steps to Locate the Rheem Reset Button:
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Turn Off Power: Always turn off the furnace at the breaker before inspecting.
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Open Access Panels: Remove the front panel to expose the blower motor.
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Look for a Small Button: It’s usually red or black, clearly labeled RESET.
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Consult the Manual: If unsure, the furnace manual provides a diagram showing the exact location.
It’s important to note that not all Rheem models have a manual reset button; some rely solely on electronic control board resets.
For more technical guidance on Rheem furnace components, ACCA provides professional resources on residential HVAC systems.
How to Reset a Rheem Furnace Safely
Resetting a Rheem furnace is straightforward but requires caution:
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Turn Off the Furnace Power
This ensures safety while pressing the reset button. -
Press the Reset Button
Hold the button for 5–10 seconds. Longer presses do not improve results and may stress the motor or electrical contacts. -
Wait a Few Minutes
Allow the system’s safety switches and relays to reset. -
Restore Power and Restart
Turn the furnace back on and observe operation. The burners should ignite, and the blower should circulate warm air. -
Limit Repeated Attempts
If the furnace fails to start after 2–3 resets, stop and call a licensed HVAC professional. Repeated resets without diagnosing the issue can cause damage or unsafe conditions.
For additional guidance on safe furnace troubleshooting, ASHRAE offers detailed HVAC safety standards.
Common Reasons You Might Need to Reset a Rheem Furnace
Understanding why your furnace requires a reset helps prevent recurring issues:
1. Ignition Failure
The furnace may fail to ignite due to a faulty igniter, clogged burners, or improper gas supply.
2. Flame Sensor Issues
If the flame sensor cannot detect a stable flame, the furnace shuts down to prevent unsafe operation.
3. Overheating
Blocked airflow, dirty filters, or duct obstructions can trigger the high-limit safety switch.
4. Electrical or Control Board Problems
Faulty wiring or a failing control board may prevent ignition or proper operation, prompting a reset.
Lessons for Electric Furnaces Like the Goodman MBVK
Even though the Goodman MBVK electric furnace does not use a gas igniter, it shares the same safety-first philosophy as Rheem systems:
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Automatic Fault Detection: Sensors monitor element temperature, airflow, and blower operation.
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Safe Interruption: If unsafe conditions are detected, the system disables heating elements while continuing to operate the blower to prevent overheating.
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No Manual Reset Needed: Unlike Rheem gas furnaces, the MBVK automatically resets once conditions normalize.
Understanding this logic helps homeowners interpret symptoms such as:
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Blower runs but no heat
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Furnace cycles frequently
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Uneven heating
All of these may indicate a safety interruption rather than a mechanical failure.
For more on electric furnace safety and operation, Energy.gov provides authoritative guidance.
Troubleshooting Tips for Rheem and Electric Furnaces
Rheem Furnace
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Blower Runs but No Heat: Check igniter, flame sensor, and gas supply.
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Furnace Shuts Down Repeatedly: Inspect filters, airflow, and limit switches.
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Reset Button Won’t Stay Reset: May indicate a recurring safety fault; professional inspection is needed.
Goodman MBVK Electric Furnace
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Blower Runs but No Heat: Check heating elements, limit switches, and electrical connections.
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Furnace Not Cycling Properly: Inspect airflow and ductwork for restrictions.
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Safety Interruptions: Let the system reset automatically; repeated manual interventions are unnecessary.
Maintenance Tips to Reduce the Need for Resets
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Regular Filter Changes: Prevent restricted airflow and limit switch trips.
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Blower Inspection: Ensure motor and belts are functioning correctly.
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Heating Element Check: Inspect for signs of wear or overheating.
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Professional Inspection: Annual service prevents small issues from becoming major faults.
Maintaining your furnace reduces unnecessary resets and extends the life of both gas and electric systems.
For professional HVAC maintenance advice, Energy Star offers recommendations for homeowners.
Safety Precautions When Resetting Furnaces
Reset buttons are safety mechanisms, not repair tools. Keep these precautions in mind:
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Never press the reset button repeatedly without addressing the root problem
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Turn off power before pressing the reset button
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Allow proper waiting time between resets
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Call a licensed HVAC technician if issues persist
By following these guidelines, you ensure both safe operation and long-term system reliability.
Final Thoughts from Samantha Reyes
The Rheem furnace reset button is a critical safety feature designed to protect both the system and your home. Understanding its location and function, along with proper reset procedures, allows homeowners to respond safely to operational issues.
While electric furnaces like the Goodman MBVK do not have manual reset buttons, they embody the same safety-first philosophy with automatic fault detection and control. Homeowners who understand the logic behind resets—whether gas or electric—can better interpret furnace behavior, maintain comfort, and ensure safe operation.
Regular maintenance, careful monitoring, and professional service when needed are key to reliable, efficient heating for any home.
