Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the estimated 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 around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Because 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 issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.
They’ll detach the power and slowly inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly 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 depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring 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 with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you may 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 detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to carefully inspect 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 could still prevent 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 getting sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and resolving electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This could be as straightforward 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 inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.
