Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you might address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts required to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they pinpoint the problem 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 shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it presents 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 struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although 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 receiving adequate 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might 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 inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.
