Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware needed 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 disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After they locate the problem 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 fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. Assuming it displays 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 struggle to 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 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician should cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may 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 not having one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can examine 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After switching 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 looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.