Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest 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 a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. Once they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine 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 get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should cautiously examine 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may 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 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 adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine 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.
