Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact 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 may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware required to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can check 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 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 problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact 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 needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician will cautiously 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent 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 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.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might 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 have 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 being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it could 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 looks to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.
