Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise 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 common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through 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 investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary 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 detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 may have appeared 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 locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software error. 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 gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they find 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 lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. 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 should carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can examine 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 remedied 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can 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 switch the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting 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 seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.
