Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best 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 might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the estimated 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 things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed 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 continue to be displayed until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they find the malfunctioning 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 shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining enough 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may 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 a good idea to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After switching 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 time to contact a local professional.
