Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize 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 supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts needed to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. As 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 fixed.
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 occurred further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform 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 begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it reveals 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 can’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 malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can carefully inspect 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. 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 check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead have 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 excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as easy as the breaker being switched 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 check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.