Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly 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 present solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you could discover 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 be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should 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 should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they find the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to find 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 may continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover 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 malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to cautiously examine 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may 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 obtaining sufficient 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might 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 have 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 excessive power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After switching 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 looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.