Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Don't forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required to wrap up repairs.
e298 - Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. Because 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 problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 - Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they find the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 - Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can't find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 - Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician will cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine 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 prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may 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 suggested to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.
e73 - Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power. This could be as easy as the breaker being shut 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 inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.