Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is disconnected from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source 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 simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively look at each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially 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. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine 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 get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician will 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 prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and resolving electrical malfunctions.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.
