Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer 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 might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap 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 several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 perform 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 looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. Once they locate the malfunctioning 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 shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to find out 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 may continue to visually inspect components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved 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 inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.