Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is disconnected from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly 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 eventually power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete 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 detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you may 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 likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 excessive power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.