Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears 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 remain on display until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Presuming 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 may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it presents 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 don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to carefully investigate 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having 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.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.