Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts needed to finish 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. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to 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 examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially 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 subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including 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 likely be best to contact 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 experiencing more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician should carefully examine 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep 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 missing one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 transported through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could 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 shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and resolving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 seems to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.
