Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code offers useful information about the root 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 discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts 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. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source 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 will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing 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 supply power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician can carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it may 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.