Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you can fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary 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 detached 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 the screen until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs 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 review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
As 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 dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually examine 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 get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should cautiously examine 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep 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 not having one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can 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 a good idea to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.
