Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware 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 disconnected from the system. Because 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 issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should check 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they locate the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface 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 depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to get in touch with 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 may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician can meticulously inspect 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving enough 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 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 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent inside 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something 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 seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.
