Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve 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 may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to figure out 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 may continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can carefully inspect 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining enough 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.