Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you might address it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source 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 conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates 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 needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician can carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it can still prevent 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 missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could 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 suggested to switch the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.