Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts required to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should examine 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 needs 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 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 progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially 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 eventually turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually examine 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 likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop 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 obtaining adequate power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and resolving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be a problem 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 seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.