Furnace - "Rest Switch"

Originally Posted By: Craig Shap
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What exactly is the purpose of the “Reset Switch” blk in color - located in the bottom compartment top right hand corner of the furnace. I saw a unit (Carrier Model) (8yrs old) which did not have a switch as others often do…and the upper level unit had the switch. I know when the cover is off the unit will not activate…But is their any other purpose of the switch?



CAS Atl GA.


The Hometeam Inspection Service

Originally Posted By: jpope
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You mean the “dead man” switch. Because without that switch, you could be dead, man icon_wink.gif


This is so that the furnace will not pull carbon monoxide (or any other products of combustion) from the burner area and deposit it into the living space. If the cover is not completely in place, the fan is not supposed to turn on.

Most older models are not equipped with these switches. It is a requirement in newer models.

It's always a good idea to check and see if the switch has been bypassed or is nonoperational.


--
Jeff Pope
JPI Home Inspection Service
"At JPI, we'll help you look better"
(661) 212-0738

Originally Posted By: Craig Shap
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This sounds like a severe problem. So, in this case if the cover were to come loose then the fan wil still be working and pulling carbon monoxide…Perhaps the switch has been bipassed because it is not present on this unit and it should be…



CAS Atl GA.


The Hometeam Inspection Service

Originally Posted By: jpope
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Craig Shapiro wrote:
Perhaps the switch has been bipassed because it is not present on this unit and it should be...


Possibly. In any event, as long as the covers fit properly and seal tightly, there is no real concern. If you see evidence that a switch used to be there and has been removed or bypassed, that is an indication of something else altogether.


--
Jeff Pope
JPI Home Inspection Service
"At JPI, we'll help you look better"
(661) 212-0738

Originally Posted By: jhagarty
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The switch is also a cut out switch for the blower fan.


The Blower is thermostatically controlled on heat setting and could turn on unexpectedly when servicing the Motor or Filter without this safety override switch.


--
Joseph Hagarty

HouseMaster / Main Line, PA
joseph.hagarty@housemaster.com
www.householdinspector.com

Phone: 610-399-9864
Fax : 610-399-9865

HouseMaster. Home inspections. Done right.

Originally Posted By: jpeck
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If the switch has “Rest” written next to it (and that was just not your term for the switch), that may be a ‘reset’ switch for resetting something. Otherwise, as you explained it, sounds like the panel shut-off switch, but I like the “dead man” switch because you a “dead man” without it. icon_biggrin.gif



Jerry Peck


South Florida

Originally Posted By: Craig Shap
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Correction noted should be “Reset”.



CAS Atl GA.


The Hometeam Inspection Service