Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.
Let's consider seven of the most frequent error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you can solve it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware required to complete repairs.
e298 - Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. As 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 fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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 should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be replaced 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 eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be 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 may 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 because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent 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 not having one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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 dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead have to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 - Critical
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it could 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and resolving electrical damage.
e73 - Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power. This might be as easy as the breaker being shut 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 inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.