Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they find the root 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 should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician should 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want 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 enough 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.