Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware required to finish 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. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your home’s 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 source 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 will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they find the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may 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 supply power with a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components like 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. 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 inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied 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 excess power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it could 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it could 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.