Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize 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 show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly look at each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. 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 may continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably 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 receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician will meticulously investigate 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop 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 missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.