Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they find the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can deplete 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 supply power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with 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 receiving more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician will carefully inspect 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep 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 not having one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can examine 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is sent 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as simple 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 check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.