Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific parts 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 disconnected 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 the screen until the problem is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and progressively look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once 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 especially 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 turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excess 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 pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power.
This could be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be something 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 best to get in touch with a local professional.