Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve 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 anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. As 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 problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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, 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 just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the damaged 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 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 subsequently shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. In the event 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 don’t 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 problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician should meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes 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 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from getting sufficient 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.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead have 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 being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary 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 straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching 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 appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.
