Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root 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 conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because 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 working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully inspect 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might 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 receiving enough power. You can check 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 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.
