Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review 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 price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components required 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. 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 issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to 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 simply a software issue. 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 gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they pinpoint the problem 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 lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. Assuming 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 can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing 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. The technician will carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead have 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 too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it may 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 none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.