Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead have to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.