Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. 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 fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should 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 begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they find the malfunctioning 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 fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect 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 will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician will cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After shutting 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 time to get in touch with a local professional.