Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. 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 present solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components needed to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up 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 display until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced 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 giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays 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 can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician can meticulously 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can inspect 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can 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 suggested to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be an issue 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.