Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you can fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific parts necessary 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 disconnected from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician can carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want 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 obtaining sufficient 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being shut 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 looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.