Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware needed to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the problem 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 fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates 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 what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving adequate power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.