Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you might address it and the projected cost to do so. Remember 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 travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display 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 could have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete 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 begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually look at each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should 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 find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician can carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes 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 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 using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.