Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could address it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears 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 a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they find the problem 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 lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as 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 get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting 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. The technician should cautiously 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify 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 appear. This can be remedied 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it can 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 recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being switched 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.