Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. As 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 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 could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they find 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components such as 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 probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to carefully investigate 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might 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 have 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 excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After switching 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.
