Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the day-to-day 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 properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears 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 issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially 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 turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it displays 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 detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician should meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving adequate power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can 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 recommended to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.