Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 precise error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail 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 check a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe 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 may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician will meticulously examine 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop 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 missing one can block your Nest from receiving adequate power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.