Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Here 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 can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached 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 the screen until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they locate the malfunctioning 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician will cautiously investigate 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 might still keep 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from getting enough 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead need 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it may 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.