Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. 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 supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to 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 inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they find 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 fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components including 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 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 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can carefully examine 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 how you prefer 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 enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was 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 excessive power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate 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 might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check 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.