Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind 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 required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root 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 will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they locate the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface 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 depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as 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’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 bad connection in the thermostat. The technician should carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes 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 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can 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 suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 seems to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.
