Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to finish 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. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch 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 numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you can 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 probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting 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. The technician should cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though 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 missing one can block your Nest from getting 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.
With 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 need 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it can 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 suggested to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.