Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Because 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 issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they find 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 shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you can 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 detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. 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 should cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it could 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 missing one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.
