Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you can solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. Because 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 issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged 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 lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including 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 likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician will cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something 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 seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.
