Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind 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 include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you can 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’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can 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 bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent 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 missing one can block your Nest from receiving adequate power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving 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 shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.