Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display 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 happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing 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 provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can meticulously inspect 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep 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 obtaining sufficient power. You can inspect 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 might 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 best to speak with a local professional.