Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required 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 disconnected 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 display until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly check each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to find 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 presents error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components such as 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 get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician should carefully investigate 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to 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 was already installed, you’ll instead have to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can 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 recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.