Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific components 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 detached from the system. 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 issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate 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 merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they find 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 especially 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 drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components like 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 get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician should carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify 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 dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.
