Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. 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 appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. Since 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 a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can 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, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician will cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it can 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 getting sufficient 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes 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
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 may 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 suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.