How to Reset a TV

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Updated January 20, 2023

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 Software glitches, outdated firmware, corrupted apps, and too many applications working in the background can lead to poor performance of your TV.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Software glitches, outdated firmware, corrupted apps, and too many applications working in the background can lead to poor performance of your TV.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

Android TV is one of the most popular operating systems used on Smart TVs, offering users a variety of menu items and settings to customize their viewing experience.

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 fix this, a factory data reset is a useful reset option that can be used to restore the TV to its original factory settings.

In short, to get your TV working back to normal, you’ll need to perform a reset. Alternatively, there are a few issues that can be fixed in your TV settings that do not require a reset, like fixing input lag or turning off subtitles on your TV. However, some problems will require a reset, and 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.

A reset button can usually be found in the TV’s settings menu. You may have to enter a code or password to keep your content secure when using this reset button. To ensure a successful factory reset, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer carefully.

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 reset can only fix a problem with your TV.

This operation also resets all customer settings, like streaming device accounts and other personalized items. Make sure to reconfigure your streaming device after the reset operation is complete. This will ensure that you can access streaming services without any issues. Always consider a reset if a problem persists with your TV.

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.

After you reset your device, please ensure audio settings and connection settings are correct, as incorrect network settings can lead to problems with streaming apps. After ensuring audio and network settings are all in order, you will be ready to begin the reset process.

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 hold the TV remote control power button for about five seconds until 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 into 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.

Otherwise, advanced system settings and invasive reset methods should be explored. If the issue persists, consider a firmware update. This warrants more advanced technical skills to complete successfully. 

After you have reset your TV and it’s working as well as new, make sure you have the wires organized behind the TV, so they don’t distract your eye from your TV screen while watching your favorite show or movie. 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 to find an easy solution. Additionally, if your TV won’t power on after a bad storm, you will need to troubleshoot it to figure out if you can salvage your TV. We have a great guide on how to do that with how to fix a TV struck by lightning.

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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