Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 on the display. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. Since 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 resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly look at each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. In the event it presents 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 can’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests 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 what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician will 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 prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer 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 receiving adequate power. You can check 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.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.