Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you could fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will inspect 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 needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming 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 struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can 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 through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to carefully inspect 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
While 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent using 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 protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching 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 seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.