Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display 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 occurred further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. The 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting adequate power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might 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 have 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 through the Nest’s wiring, it can 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 protect from 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 proper experience identifying and fixing electrical problems.
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 turned off, but it may 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 looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.
