Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As 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 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 appeared further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they find 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 should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing 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 defective connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it can 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 missing 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
With 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 was already installed, you’ll instead have 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 transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be a problem 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 appears to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.
