Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the everyday 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 on the display. The precise error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware required to complete 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 swap 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 several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface 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. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could 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 supply power through a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components like 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 will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue 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 through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. 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
Similar to 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 could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.