Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware 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. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending 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 check a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should 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 detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 because of a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician will meticulously 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it can still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may 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 have 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 excess power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could 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 suggested to shut the power off straightaway. 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 signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine 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 contact a local professional.