Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. 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 provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you can fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware needed to wrap up 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 several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they locate the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components including 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’s maybe best to call 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 receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.