Whether you have a GE window air conditioner or a central AC unit, you may run into issues from time to time. However, a simple reset can often fix the problem. Let's look at how to do a reset on both types of GE A/C units.
To reset a GE window air conditioner, follow these steps:
- Locate the reset button.
- Hold it for 5 seconds.
- Wait ten minutes for it to reset.
If your GE window air conditioner doesn't have a reset button, then do the following:
- Unplug the unit.
- Wait 5 minutes.
- Plug it back in.
For GE central air conditioner units, here are the steps to reset them:
- Turn off the thermostat.
- Find the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Locate the A/C Breaker.
- Turn it off.
- Locate the reset button on the unit.
- Hold it for 5 seconds [if applicable].
- Restore power to the A/C unit.
- Turn on the thermostat.
As you can see, resetting a GE A/C unit is a pretty simple process. This article will walk you through this process for both window and central AC units. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about GE air conditioners, so read on!
How to reset GE air conditioners
There are a few reasons you might need to reset your GE air conditioner. One reason is if the unit isn't cooling correctly. If this is the case, a reset may fix the issue. Another reason is if the unit isn't responding to the thermostat.
This could be due to a power outage or a tripped circuit breaker. In this case, a reset will usually fix the issue. Finally, you may need to reset the unit if it has been turned off for an extended time [such as over the winter].
You will probably have one of two different GE air conditioner types for cooling your home - a window unit or a central AC unit. Let's take a look at how to reset each type.
You will need to either locate the reset button or turn off the main power source to reset either.
How to reset a GE window air conditioner
To reset a GE window air conditioner, follow these steps:
- First, locate the reset button that is typically located near the power cord. It should be labeled.
- Once you have located it, hold it down for five seconds. Some models may flash or make a chime.
- After five seconds, release the button.
- Now, wait ten minutes for the unit to fully reset.
- Once it has reset, ensure that the power is turned on and the unit is plugged in.
- Now, try turning on the air conditioner again.
If your GE window air conditioner doesn't have a reset button, don't worry. You can still reset it by doing the following:
- First, unplug the unit from the outlet.
- Give the unit time to shut down (five minutes) completely.
- Once it has shut down, you can plug the unit back in.
- Again, make sure that the power is on and try turning on the air conditioner.
- Check to see if it is working properly.
How to reset a GE central air conditioner
If you have a GE central air conditioner, follow these steps to reset it:
Turn off the thermostat
The first thing you will need to do is turn off the thermostat. This will prevent the unit from turning on while you are resetting it.
Find the circuit breaker or fuse box
You will need to locate the breaker or fuse box that powers the air conditioner unit. This is typically found in the basement, garage, or utility room.
Once you have found it, look for the breaker labeled "A/C." This is the one you will need to turn off.
Locate the reset button on the unit [if applicable]
Most air conditioning units will have a reset button that is small and red. It is usually located in the control panel. If you aren't sure where it is, consult your owner's manual.
If your GE central air system doesn't have a reset button, you can skip this step and move to restore the power.
Hold it for 5 seconds
Once you have located the reset button, press and hold it for five seconds, some models may require that you do this twice. You may also hear a chime or see a light flash when you do this.
Restore power to the A/C unit
After five seconds, you can release the button. Then, turn the breaker back on and wait for the unit to power on.
Turn on the thermostat
Finally, turn on the thermostat and set it to your desired temperature. The unit should now be reset and working properly.
Why is my GE air conditioner not cooling?
If the reset doesn't work on either type of GE air conditioner, you may have a more serious issue. In this case, the problem could be due to several different reasons. Let's take a look at them below:
Clogged Air Filter
One of the most common reasons why an air conditioner may not be cooling properly is because the air filter is clogged. A clogged air filter will prevent air from flowing through and make it harder for the unit to cool the room.
Check to see if the filter needs to be replaced and do so if necessary. This is a quick and easy fix that could potentially solve the problem.
Low on Refrigerant
Another reason your air conditioner may not be cooling is because it is low on refrigerant. This is a more serious issue that will require a professional to fix.
If your unit is low on refrigerant, you may notice that the coils are frosty or the unit is leaking. If you notice either of these issues, call a professional to come and take a look.
Thermostat Settings
This may seem obvious, but your thermostat settings may be too high. If the thermostat is set too high, then the unit won't turn on until the room reaches that temperature.
For example, if your thermostat is set to turn on at 72 degrees and the room is only 70 degrees, the unit won't turn on.
In this case, you will need to lower the thermostat setting and wait for the room to cool down. Once it does, the unit should turn on and start cooling the room.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Another reason why your air conditioner may not be working properly is that the condenser coils are dirty. The condenser coils are responsible for dissipating heat, so if they are dirty, they won't be able to do their job correctly.
To clean the coils, you will need to turn off the power to the unit and remove the access panel. Once you have done this, use a brush or cloth to clean the coils. Be sure to remove any debris or dirt that you see.
After cleaning the coils, replace the access panel and turn the power back on. The unit should now be working properly.
Failed Control Board
The control board is responsible for sending power to the different components of the air conditioner. If it fails, then the unit won't work properly.
Unfortunately, this is not something that you will be able to fix on your own, and you will need to call a professional to take a look at it.
Bad Thermistor
The thermistor is responsible for measuring the temperature of the air. If it fails, then the unit won't be able to measure the temperature accurately and, as a result, won't work properly.
Again, this is not something that you will be able to fix on your own, and you will need to call a professional for assistance.
Failed Capacitor
The capacitor is responsible for providing power to the compressor. If it fails, then the compressor won't be able to start, and the unit won't work.
If you suspect that the capacitor is the issue, check it with a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the "capacitance" setting and touch the leads to the capacitor.
If the reading is zero, the capacitor is most likely the issue. In this case, you will need to call a professional for assistance.
How long do GE air conditioners last?
Both window and central air conditioners typically last about 10-15 years or more. However, this will vary depending on the unit type, how often it is used, and how well it is maintained.
Keep the coils clean and regularly replace the filter to help your GE air conditioner last as long as possible. Additionally, you should have the unit serviced by a professional every year.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your GE air conditioner will last for many years.
Final Thoughts
If your GE air conditioner is not cooling, try resetting it before spending money on parts or calling a professional. If that doesn't work, check the common issues mentioned in this article.
If you have checked all of these things and the unit isn't working correctly, you will need to call a professional for assistance.
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