Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize 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 appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware required to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is dealt with.
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 appeared further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they find the source 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly 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 power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can drain 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 disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician should meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced 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 want 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 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 might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 sent 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 suggested to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.