Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize 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 appear. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you might solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts needed to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is disconnected from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear 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 depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can 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 indicates an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will 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 because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician can cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop 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 getting enough 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.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could 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 switch the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical issues.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This may be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can 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 none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.