Using 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 properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to finish 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. 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 issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they locate the problem 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 shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents 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 struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician should meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check 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.