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 changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed 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 display until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they find 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, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event 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 don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates 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 necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician can carefully inspect 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against 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 identifying and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.