How to Reset a TV

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Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:13 PM

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From time to time, you will likely experience issues with your TV that will require a reset. Unfortunately, even the best TVs are not immune from problems. Software glitches, outdated firmware, corrupted apps, too many applications working in the background can lead to poor performance of your TV.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Software glitches, outdated firmware, corrupted apps, too many applications working in the background can lead to poor performance of your TV.
  • Most modern TVs come with a reset function that, when activated, takes the TV back to its original setting.
  • A factory reset is ideal if a problem with your TV can only be fixed by reset. You can also perform a reset if you are selling your device.

Today’s Smart TVs also do much more than just display incoming broadcast signals. They can log into websites, access streaming content, play music and videos from external hard drives, and access your home network.

To access all these features effectively, Smart TVs have in-built processors that process and store data. Sometimes, when there is an overload of data, the processor will perform poorly, and in some cases, crash. To get your TV working back to normal, you’ll need to perform a reset. In this post, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to reset a TV.

What does Resetting your TV Do?

Most modern TVs come with a reset function that, when activated, takes the TV back to its original setting. Think of it as a time machine, getting you back in time.

Resetting your TV

Before performing a reset on your TV, it is essential to note that your TV will get back to its default settings after the reset process. A factory reset is ideal if a problem with your TV can only be fixed by reset. You can also perform a reset if you are selling your device and want to delete all your personal details, including viewing history and passwords.

Resetting your TV is pretty simple and doesn’t require any tools (this is unlike removing a TV from a wall mount where you will need the right tools and manpower), or technical know-how. All you need to do is the following:

  1. First, turn on your TV if it was initially off. Then, remove any USB devices that might be plugged into the unit. Next, press the MENU button on your television remote control, or from the front panel of your unit.
  2. Find the “Factory Reset” option or any familiar wording from the options menu using your remote-control arrow key.
  3. Press “OK” or “Enter” on your TV remote control to initiate the factory reset.
  4. If a security message pops up asking if you are sure of your choice to factory reset the system, select “Yes.” It will initiate the factory reset process. Your TV will reset.

Power resetting your TV

It is possible to power reset your TV with the remote control.

  1. First, press and continue holding the TV remote control power button for about five seconds unit your unit restarts.
  2. Depending on your TV model, a “Shutting down” message will appear.

The other method is unplugging the TV from the mains. If power resetting your TV with the remote control fails do the following:

  1. Unplug the unit from the power source.
  2. Press the power button on the TV remote control or front panel with the TV turned off.
  3. Wait for two minutes before plugging the TV back to the electric source.
  4. Turn off and then on again and check if the issue prompting the TV reset has been solved.

If your TV is still experiencing problems, it may be hardware-related. Do not attempt to diagnose the hardware if you don’t have the right tools and skills. Fixing TV hardware requires specialized technical skills. Contact your manufacturer or local repair service for assistance.

There are some problems that can’t be resolved by resetting your TV. For example, things like annoying reflections on a TV screen. In cases like that, you first need to identify the cause, so you can find an easy solution.

F.A.Q.S

What is a TV reset?

Also known as a factory, or hard reset, this function works to restore an electric device back to its original state by deleting all the information stored.


When is a TV reset important?

Software glitches, outdated firmware, corrupted apps, too many applications working in the background can lead to poor performance of your TV.


What does resetting a TV do to the unit?

Most modern TVs come with a reset function that, when activated, takes the TV back to its original setting. Think of it as a time machine.


What methods can you use to reset your TV?

There are two methods viewers can use. Power reset by unplugging the TV from the electric outlet or resetting the TV from the Menu settings.

How does resetting your TV help?

A factory reset is ideal if a problem with your TV can only be fixed by reset. You can also perform a reset if you are selling your device and want to delete all your personal details, including viewing history and passwords.



STAT: According to a recent report, in 2020, more than 80% of U.S households had a Television, with at least one of them connected to the internet. In 2021, 82% of U.S households have an internet-connected TV, compared to 74% in 2019 and 65% in 2016. (source)

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