Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears 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 fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears 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 merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When 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 shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents 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 struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with 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 what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 missing 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice 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 get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as easy 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 check 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.
