Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could address it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. As 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 several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should check 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 needs to 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 examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the damaged 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 shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually 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 dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call 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 experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify 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 appear. This can be remedied 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming 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 notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
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 can also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.