Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could 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. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After 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 lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually check components such as 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep 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 receiving adequate power. You can inspect 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it may 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 none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.
