Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code offers 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 discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific components required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the damaged 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 fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming 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 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 provide power by using a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find 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 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting 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 defective connection in the thermostat. A technician will meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it can still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer 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 sufficient power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With 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 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting 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 best to speak with a local professional.
