Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like 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. Since 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 problem is resolved.
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 the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. 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 look at each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power with 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 can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates 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 what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 like normal. 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 inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you 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 was already 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 too much power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 time to get in touch with a local professional.