Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary 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 shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch 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 numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should 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 check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays 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 detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop 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 receiving sufficient 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can 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 they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.