Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might solve it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Since 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 issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should check 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect 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 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician can carefully inspect 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it can still prevent 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining enough 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as easy 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 inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.