Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up 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 problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician will carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. 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 through 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.