Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap 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 may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up 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 simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct 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 break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you can 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 find anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. 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 can 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 stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can examine 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already 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 transported through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can 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 none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.