Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to cautiously examine 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving adequate power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
During 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 be required 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up 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 get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting 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 looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.