Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through 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 price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively look at each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to determine 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. In the event it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually check components including 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 contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 prefer to. Error code n260 concerns 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 too much power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate 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 could 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 examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.
