Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can solve it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components 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 shut off. As 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 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 appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the source 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 make sure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. If it reveals 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 uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting enough 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
During 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 need to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
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 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 a good idea to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.