Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately depend on the exact 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 components needed to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they find the malfunctioning 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should 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 uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully 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
While 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 adjust 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 show up. This can be resolved 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.