Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts necessary to complete 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 switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.
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 appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’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 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician will carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer 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 getting sufficient power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead need 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 too much power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.