Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected 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 problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively inspect each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. After they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially 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. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components like 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 probably 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 may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to meticulously inspect 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 might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
During 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 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 excess power is sent through 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After turning 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 speak with a local professional.