Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the estimated cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they locate 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 should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components like 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’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to meticulously examine 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent 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 protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and fixing 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 straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After switching 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 seems to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.
