Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts needed 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. 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 fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct 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 disconnect the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged 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 fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will 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 faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician will meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it could 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied 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 excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After switching 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 appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.
