Time Delay Reset for an Air Conditioner That Has Lost Power

Power Outage

• When the power goes out, turn the unit off by turning the control dial to "Off." If the unit interface is electronic, however, you will be unable to turn the unit off. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet to protect the unit from a power surge. If you leave the unit plugged in, it will power on when the electricity comes back on; that is, if the current interrupter device in the plug doesn't get tripped first. When the unit turns back on, the air conditioner continues with the settings as they were when the power went out.

Reset Button

• On the plug at the end of the air conditioner power cord, there is a "Reset" button that is to be used when the unit doesn't turn back on after a power failure. The "Reset" button may also be needed when the unit suddenly stops working for unknown reasons. Press the "Reset" button to reset the current interrupter device installed in the plug. When the unit comes on, allow three minutes for the compressor to kick in. The "Reset" button should stay compressed after it's pressed. If it doesn't stay compressed, the plug or the outlet may be damaged. Call a technician to fix the problem.

Compressor Overload

• The internal compressor overload device prevents electrical bursts from entering the compressor component and causing damage. As a result, when you turn the unit on, the device may be set to "Cool" and the fan may run, but the compressor won't. Your unit isn't broken. It's normal for the compressor to not operate for the first three minutes of activation after a power outage. After three minutes, the compressor should kick in and cool the air.

Breaker

• If the unit fails to turn on after the "Reset," the breaker may be tripped. The breaker that controls the unit is installed with other breakers in a breaker box. Open the box and locate the breaker that controls the air conditioner. If the breaker switch is in the middle or "Off" position, switch it over to "On." Turn the unit on and allow three minutes for the compressor to kick in.