Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you could address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts required 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 disconnected from the system. Because 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 resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. 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 might be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error 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 through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer 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 examine 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.
During 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 is already installed, you’ll instead have to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show 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 possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward 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 examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.
