Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. 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 root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you could fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $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 the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. As 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 issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can examine 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, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components including 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 will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates 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 necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep 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 not having one can block your Nest from receiving adequate 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.