Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components 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 detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears 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 error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually look at each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced 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 persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to find 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. In the event it reveals 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 can’t uncover 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 malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes 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 adequate 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During 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 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 too much power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can 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 suggested to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it could 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 they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.
