Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay 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 appears when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they find the damaged 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 fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop 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 obtaining adequate power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.