Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 exact error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.
Let's consider seven of the most likely error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific 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 components required 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 switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display 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 happened further along in your home's electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.
e294 - Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 - Critical
This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 - Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician should cautiously 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
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may 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 receiving 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead have 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 that's the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and resolving electrical problems.
e73 - Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not getting power. This may be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.