Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap 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 numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform 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 looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components like 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 likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer 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 getting enough power. You can inspect 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and resolving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be a problem 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 looks to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.
