Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the estimated cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display 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 may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components like 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 likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error 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 can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might 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 getting sufficient power. You can examine 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.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 excessive power is sent inside 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 as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.