Few things frustrate homeowners more than a furnace that suddenly stops working in the middle of winter. One of the first things that comes to mind is: “Where is the reset button on a Lennox furnace?” or “How do I reset a Lennox furnace?” While these questions are specific to Lennox systems, understanding how the furnace reset button functions applies to all electric furnaces, including the Goodman MBVK electric furnace.
In this guide, I’ll explain how the Lennox furnace reset button works, its location, how to safely reset the furnace, and what common issues trigger it. We’ll also explore why modern systems like the Goodman MBVK handle resets differently, improving safety and reducing the need for manual intervention. By the end of this guide, you’ll understand how to troubleshoot furnace reset problems and maintain a reliable, safe heating system in your home.
What Is the Lennox Furnace Reset Button?
The Lennox furnace reset button is a built-in safety mechanism designed to protect your furnace from overheating or electrical faults. When the system detects an unsafe condition—most commonly an overheating scenario—the reset button trips, shutting down the furnace until the problem is addressed and the button is manually pressed.
Key functions include:
-
Interrupting power to the furnace heating elements if a fault occurs
-
Preventing potential damage or fire hazards
-
Acting as a manual override after a safety trip
It’s important to understand that repeated tripping of the reset button is not normal. Frequent trips are usually indicative of an underlying issue, such as restricted airflow, a malfunctioning blower motor, or failing heating elements.
For more information on furnace safety and operation, the U.S. Department of Energy provides guidance on safe electric heating practices (DOE Electric Heating Safety).
Where Is the Lennox Furnace Reset Button Located?
Knowing where the reset button on a Lennox furnace is located is essential before attempting any reset. While exact placement varies by model, there are consistent locations:
-
Inside the furnace cabinet – Typically behind a front or side access panel
-
Near the blower motor – Especially in furnaces where the motor includes its own thermal protection
-
Clearly labeled – Usually a red or black button marked “Reset”
-
Easily accessible – Many designs allow homeowners to press the button without tools
If you’re trying to locate the Lennox blower motor reset button, it’s often found on the blower motor itself or in close proximity to the motor assembly. Some modern Lennox units integrate the blower motor reset function with the main furnace reset button.
For visual references and detailed diagrams, Lennox provides comprehensive furnace manuals (Lennox Furnace Manuals).
How to Reset a Lennox Furnace
Resetting a furnace is straightforward but must be done carefully to avoid injury or further damage. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
-
Turn off power to the furnace – Either at the breaker panel or a dedicated furnace switch
-
Locate the reset button – Check the furnace manual for the exact location
-
Press the reset button firmly – Hold until you feel a click or resistance
-
Restore power – Turn the breaker or switch back on
-
Monitor operation – Listen for normal blower function, check airflow, and observe heat output
If the furnace trips again immediately after resetting, it is a signal of a deeper problem. Possible causes include:
-
Overheating due to airflow restrictions
-
Blower motor failure
-
Malfunctioning heating elements
-
Faulty control board
Repeated trips should never be ignored. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends professional inspection in these situations (CPSC Heating Safety).
Common Problems That Trigger the Furnace Reset Button
Understanding why your Lennox furnace reset button trips helps in diagnosing problems early. Here are the most frequent triggers:
1. Airflow Problems
Airflow restrictions are the most common cause of furnace overheating. These can include:
-
Dirty or clogged air filters
-
Closed or blocked supply vents
-
Obstructed return air ducts
-
Collapsed or undersized ductwork
When airflow is restricted, the furnace temperature rises quickly, triggering the reset button to protect the system.
2. Blower Motor Issues
The Lennox blower motor reset button is designed to protect the motor from overheating. Common issues include:
-
Failed or failing blower motor
-
Defective motor capacitor
-
Worn bearings or friction in the motor
-
Improper voltage supply
If the blower motor isn’t functioning properly, air will not circulate over the heating elements, causing them to overheat and trip the reset switch.
3. Heating Element Problems
Electric heating elements can burn out or become damaged over time. When a faulty element overheats, the reset button will trip. Inspecting heating elements for visible damage or using a multimeter to test continuity is part of proper troubleshooting.
4. Control Board or Safety Sensor Malfunctions
Modern furnaces, including the Goodman MBVK, use electronic control boards to monitor safety. Malfunctions can falsely trigger the reset button, even if there’s no true overheating. Proper diagnosis may require professional tools to read error codes or test sensors.
Goodman MBVK vs Lennox: Modern Reset and Safety Features
The Goodman MBVK electric furnace incorporates advanced features that reduce reliance on manual reset buttons:
-
Automatic safety monitoring – Most faults are handled electronically without manual intervention
-
Control board diagnostics – LED codes indicate the exact nature of a fault
-
Staged heating – Gradually energizes elements to prevent rapid overheating
-
Variable-speed ECM blower – Maintains consistent airflow and reduces stress on heating elements
These improvements mean fewer trips, less manual intervention, and improved overall reliability.
For homeowners interested in Goodman MBVK system features, installation guides, and troubleshooting tips, Goodman provides detailed documentation (Goodman MBVK Series Documentation).
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Lennox Furnace Reset Issues
If your Lennox furnace requires repeated resets, follow this structured approach:
Step 1: Verify Airflow
-
Replace dirty filters
-
Ensure all vents and returns are open
-
Check ducts for obstructions
Step 2: Inspect the Blower Motor
-
Listen for unusual noises or vibration
-
Check capacitor function
-
Confirm motor spins freely and receives proper voltage
Step 3: Examine Heating Elements
-
Look for visible damage or discoloration
-
Test element continuity
-
Replace damaged elements
Step 4: Check Control Board and Safety Sensors
-
Observe LED indicators or error codes
-
Inspect high-limit switches and thermal cutoffs
-
Reset and monitor system operation
Step 5: Test Furnace Operation
-
Press the reset button
-
Observe heat output and airflow
-
Ensure the furnace operates without repeated trips
This approach prevents damage and ensures safety while restoring proper heating.
Preventing Frequent Furnace Resets
Preventing unnecessary trips is all about proactive maintenance:
-
Replace air filters regularly
-
Inspect and clean ducts annually
-
Maintain proper thermostat function
-
Schedule yearly furnace inspections
-
Address minor electrical or mechanical issues early
Even when using a Lennox furnace, the same principles apply to any electric furnace, including the Goodman MBVK.
Safety Considerations
Working with furnaces involves electricity and high heat. Keep these safety tips in mind:
-
Always turn off power before accessing the reset button
-
Never bypass safety switches or reset mechanisms
-
Use insulated tools when inspecting components
-
Monitor the furnace after resetting to ensure safe operation
-
Call a licensed technician if problems persist
Following these precautions protects both you and your home.
Final Thoughts from Mike Sanders
Understanding the Lennox furnace reset button, its location, and how to reset it safely is essential for homeowners. Repeated trips are usually a warning of a deeper problem, not a malfunction of the reset button itself.
Whether you are working with a Lennox furnace or a modern Goodman MBVK electric furnace, the principles remain the same: maintain airflow, inspect components, respect safety systems, and call professionals when needed. By following proper troubleshooting and maintenance steps, you can enjoy reliable heating and avoid unexpected shutdowns during the winter months.
