Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day 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 well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can 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 should 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 make sure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they pinpoint the problem 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 fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually check components including 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 will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician will meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it could 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may 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 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 excess power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be a problem 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 a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.