Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components required to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen 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 could have occurred further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source 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 simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine 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’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can 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 thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician should meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine 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 like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can inspect 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This may be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it can 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 none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.