Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware needed to finish 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. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they locate the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine 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 prevent 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 not having one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can check 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.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from 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 appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.