Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t find anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician should meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as straightforward 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 check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.