How to Reset Sonos Arc: Complete Factory Reset Guide

Knowing how to reset Sonos Arc can help resolve common issues and restore your soundbar to its factory settings. Whether you’re troubleshooting sound problems, changing WiFi networks, or preparing to give away or sell your Sonos Arc, factory resetting brings the device back to its original setup state. This process erases all saved configurations, preferences, and connected networks. You’ll find it especially helpful if your Arc is not connecting to WiFi, not appearing in the Sonos app, or behaving irregularly after long-term storage. In this guide, you’ll learn the correct way to perform a full reset using the hardware button on the device. This ensures you’re starting fresh and ready to reconnect using the Sonos app.

Prerequisites

• A Sonos Arc soundbar with access to the rear Join button (labeled with an infinity symbol)
• The Sonos app installed on a compatible iOS or Android mobile device
• A stable WiFi network for use after the reset
• An Ethernet cable (optional but useful for troubleshooting WiFi setup)

Reset Sonos Arc, Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Unplug the power cord from your Sonos Arc. Ensure that the device is completely powered down before proceeding.
2. Locate the Join button on the back of the Arc. This button is identified by the infinity (∞) symbol.
3. Press and hold the Join button firmly. Do not release it until instructed, even as the lights begin to change.
4. While continuing to hold the Join button, plug the power cord back into a working power outlet to turn the Arc back on.
5. Keep holding the Join button as the LED light flashes white, then orange or amber. Wait until the light flashes green before releasing.
6. When the light on the Sonos Arc begins flashing green, release the Join button. This indicates the reset was successful, and the device is now ready for setup.
7. Launch the Sonos app on your iOS or Android device. Ensure your device is connected to the WiFi network where you plan to set up the Arc.
8. Follow the in-app instructions to add a new product. The app should detect the reset Arc and guide you through the setup process.
9. If prompted, sign in with your Sonos account or create a new one. This ensures your preferences and configurations can sync accurately.
10. Once the Arc is connected and configured, test audio output and connectivity. Optionally, pair it with additional Sonos devices or update firmware if needed.

Troubleshooting

Issue	Solution
Arc Not Appearing in Sonos App	Ensure your mobile device is connected to the same network as the Sonos Arc. Restart the Sonos app and router if needed. If WiFi issues persist, try setting up the Arc using an Ethernet cable.
Reset Unsuccessful	Reconnect the power cord while holding the Join button. Do not release it until the light changes from orange/amber to flashing green, otherwise the reset will not complete.
WiFi Connection Fails After Reset	Use an Ethernet cable during setup to stabilize the connection. Once setup is complete, switch back to WiFi through the Sonos app and check that your network allows new devices.
Audio Not Working Post-Reset	Select the Sonos Arc as the audio output in the app or paired device settings. Re-calibrate room tuning and check HDMI ARC/eARC cable connections to the TV.
Repeated Reset Failures	Check that the Join button is not stuck and try a different power outlet. If the issue continues, contact Sonos Support for further diagnostics or service options.

Advanced Tips

• During setup, connect the Arc to your router using an Ethernet cable for faster and more stable configuration, especially in high-traffic WiFi environments.
• After resetting, immediately check for firmware updates in the Sonos app to ensure compatibility and performance improvements.
• If you’re resetting the Arc as part of a larger speaker group, avoid resetting other units to prevent disrupting established room settings and stereo pairs.
• Use the Arc’s reset to clear outdated WiFi info quickly when changing networks or moving homes, then reconnect via the Sonos app.
• Store your Sonos Arc in a dry, powered-down position after reset if not using immediately to preserve its condition.

Conclusion

Resetting your Sonos Arc can be a reliable way to troubleshoot issues, set up on a new network, or prepare the device for resale. Following the correct reset process ensures your soundbar is restored to factory settings and ready for a fresh start. Whether you’re solving connectivity problems or starting over, knowing how to reset Sonos Arc properly is key to maintaining optimal performance.

FAQs

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