Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears 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 ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could 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 provide power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including 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 contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks 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 refers 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 adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.
With 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 be required 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 excessive power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it can 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 protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it can 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 best to speak with a local professional.
