Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. 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 show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific parts needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed 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 could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will 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 needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they locate the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear 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 turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to meticulously examine 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 can still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience detecting 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 simple as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.