Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC 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 precise error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you can solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific components needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen 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 may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software error. 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 progressively check each wire, ensuring 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 show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it can 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from getting adequate 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.