Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may 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 faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will check 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they find the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear 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 depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing 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 adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.