Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific parts necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly 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 depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up 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 appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.