Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed 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 continue to be displayed until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously inspect 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can check 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 remedied 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against 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 identifying and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be something 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 appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.
