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Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to complete repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform 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 slowly inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint 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 fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine 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 will probably be best to call a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can 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 because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician can cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.
With 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 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could 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 as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical problems.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After turning 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.