Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. Since 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 problem is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As 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 dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can cautiously inspect 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 can still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having 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 adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may 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
Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside 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 suggested to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.
