Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 specific error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required to wrap up 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 swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will inspect 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 will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. 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 progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually check 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’s maybe best to contact 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 getting more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though 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 adequate 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied 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 being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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.