Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize 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 show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap 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 numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. Once they pinpoint 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 break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because 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 working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover 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 necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to 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 might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving adequate 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.
