Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts necessary 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 shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a couple of 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 find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it reveals 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 struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can inspect 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 through 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as straightforward 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 seems to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.
