Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. As 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 several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to 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 simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they pinpoint the damaged 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 depletes and the thermostat will eventually power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find 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 problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting adequate power. You can examine 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.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.
