Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.
Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they find the problem 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 break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, 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 calling a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact 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 receiving more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician should carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
While this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 that’s the result of 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 show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting 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 appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.