Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you may 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. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. 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 problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly look at each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components such as 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 contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to meticulously inspect 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. 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 adequate 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.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.