Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is dealt with.
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 your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs 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 problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 through a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt 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 resolved 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it may 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 recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving 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 straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be a problem 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.
