Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required 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. Because 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 resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician can cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop 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 modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.
