Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components like 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’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead have to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.