Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer 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 as well as how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears 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 make sure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually check components including 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 likely 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 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should carefully investigate 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 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 inspect 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 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 excess power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as straightforward 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 check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.