Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could fix it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will check 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 issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and gradually look at each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they find 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 especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it reveals 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 struggle to uncover 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 issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician should cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved 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
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical issues.
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 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.
