Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as 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 appears when the power is disconnected from the system. 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 issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need 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 attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before calling 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 working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect 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 will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician should meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 may still stop 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 obtaining enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it could 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 recommended to switch the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and solving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being turned 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 examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.