Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. As 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 a number of 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 certified technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they locate the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components like 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician can cautiously examine 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
While this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns 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 modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 too much power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and resolving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.