Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer 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 continue to be displayed until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent 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 obtaining adequate power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead have 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 excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After switching 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 speak with a local professional.