Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you might solve it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue 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 could 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 check 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 conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they pinpoint the problem 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 fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components including 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’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to cautiously 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it can still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 dealt with 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against 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 necessary experience identifying and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being turned 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.