Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.
Here are 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 could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts needed to finish repairs.
e298 - Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch 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 several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.
e294 - Critical
Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 - Critical
This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before calling a professional technician.
Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents 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 will probably be best to get in touch with 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 getting more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician can cautiously investigate 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
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can examine 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.
During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 that's the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and resolving electrical damage.
e73 - Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it indicates that the Rc wire is not receiving power. This could be as simple 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 check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.