Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.
Here are seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific 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 necessary to finish 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 continue to be displayed until the problem is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.
e294 - Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up 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 ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at 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 proper amount of bare copper. When they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.
e195 - Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly 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 turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.
e103 - Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously inspect 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 could still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. 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 check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can 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 switch the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.
e73 - Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power. This could be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.