Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed 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 detached from the system. 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 numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they locate 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 particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming 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 detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can meticulously inspect 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. 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
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be something 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 seems to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.