Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. 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 specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. 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 resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears 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 make sure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they locate 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring 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 deliver power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call 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 receiving more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it can 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 adequate power. You can inspect 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 may notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.