Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. As 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 resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears 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 make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like 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 malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it can still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from getting adequate 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being turned 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 none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.
