Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider 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 could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. 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 problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components including 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician should cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might 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 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being turned 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.