Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.
e298 - Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. 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 dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they find 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 especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before consulting a professional technician.
Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can't find anything wrong with these components, it's maybe best to call 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 what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician will carefully 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains 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 need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead need 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 too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can 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 suggested to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical problems.
e73 - Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power. This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.