Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 provides 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 could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper 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 surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician can meticulously examine 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it can 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 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 adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes 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 be required 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 too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After turning 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 looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.