Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem 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 may have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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 should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they find 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 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 subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components like 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 will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to carefully examine 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may 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 turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.