Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might solve it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts required to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. 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 may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to 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 problem. 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 slowly look at each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they locate the problem connector, it can be exchanged 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 lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing 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 supply power by using a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will probably 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 what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician should meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes 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 getting enough 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might 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 be required 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive 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 show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be a problem 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 appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.