Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary 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 disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 ensure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before calling a professional technician.
As 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 disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through 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 can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead have to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can 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 switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.
