Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific parts needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is fixed.
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 happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will inspect 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can cautiously investigate 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from getting adequate power. You can check 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead need 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 excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see 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 you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.
