Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may 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 quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware required 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 shut off. 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 resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped 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 giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. In the event it presents 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 can’t detect 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 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting 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 will carefully 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining enough 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.
Due to 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 has already been 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 could damage internal components and could 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 a good idea to switch the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching 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 looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.