Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional 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 needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged 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 lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring 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 provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components like 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’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician will cautiously inspect 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving adequate power. You can examine 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may 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 switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being shut 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 examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.