Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts required 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 switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they find the source 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. After they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician should cautiously inspect 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can check 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice 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 get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After turning 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 seems to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.