Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider 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 might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. 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 issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should 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, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform 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 start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly 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 drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components like 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 probably be best to call 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 receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician can carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep 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 examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 inside the Nest’s wiring, it may 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 recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.