Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch 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 a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they find the root 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped 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 subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t 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 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician should cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.