Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you might address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to 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 make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually look at each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may 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 through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually check 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 probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead have 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine 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.