Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC 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 on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. Because 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 fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will examine 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components including 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 contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can 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 because of a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With 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 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be a problem 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 seems to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.