Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. 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 offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware needed to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed 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 continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they find the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail 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 couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components including 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 get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician will carefully examine 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.
