Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific components needed 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 change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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 conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying 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. Assuming it reveals 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 can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician should meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 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 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After switching 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 best to speak with a local professional.