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Nest Thermostat Not Cooling? (No Power to Rh, E74, C-Wire)

A Nest thermostat not cooling often shows a power or wiring error such as "No power to Rh wire detected" (E4, E24 or E74). That usually means the thermostat isn't getting 24V from the air handler, because of a tripped breaker, a float switch, a blown fuse or a loose wire. Check the settings, Eco mode, the breaker and the drain pan first. Pinellas Cooling & Heating wires and repairs smart thermostats in Pinellas Park.

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Why is my Nest not cooling?

Cause Signs
Power problem E-code on screen; battery low; Wi-Fi drops
Float switch tripped Water in the drain pan; AC off
Loose or poorly seated wire Error after installation or a wiring change
No C-wire Intermittent shutdowns, battery problems
Eco mode or schedule Thermostat set to a higher temperature
System fault Nest has power but the AC still won't cool

What does "No power to Rh" mean?

The Rh (or Rc) wire carries 24V power from the air handler to the thermostat. If Nest detects no power there, something upstream has cut it. Google lists the help codes E4, E24 and E74 as "No power to Rh wire detected". Common causes are a tripped breaker, a float switch that shut the system off because the drain is clogged, a blown fuse on the air handler's control board, or a loose wire. If the screen is blank, our guide to a thermostat blank screen walks through the same power checks.

What should I do about Nest error E74?

Google Nest Help says to check that your breakers are on, then, with power off at the breaker, make sure each wire has about a third to half an inch of straight copper exposed and is fully seated in its connector. Google also notes that if one of these codes appears suddenly during hot summer months, you'll likely need an HVAC professional, because the system may have stopped powering the thermostat. In Florida, a clogged drain and tripped float switch is a frequent culprit.

AC not cooling right now? Call (727) 761-8873 (answered 24/7) or get a free quote.

Do I need a C-wire?

Not always, but it helps. Without a C-wire, a Nest charges its battery by drawing small amounts of power through the other wires ("power stealing"). On some systems this causes short cycling, clicking or the thermostat shutting down. Google lists E1 as "Common wire (C wire) is required". Options include using a spare wire in the existing cable, an adapter at the air handler, or running new cable. See our guide to smart thermostat installation cost.

What can I check safely?

  1. Settings: Cool mode, a setpoint below room temperature, and Eco mode off.
  2. The schedule: check that it isn't raising the temperature.
  3. The breaker for the air handler and outdoor unit.
  4. The drain pan: if it's full, the float switch has probably tripped. See our guide to an AC float switch that keeps tripping.
  5. Wiring, only with power off at the breaker.

When should I call?

Call if the error returns, the breaker trips, the drain pan keeps filling, or Nest has power but the AC still won't cool. We install and wire all major smart thermostats, and our $125 diagnostic is credited toward the repair if you go ahead.

Why Pinellas Park homeowners call Pinellas Cooling & Heating

  • 10 years of AC and heat pump repair in Pinellas Park.
  • All major brands of central AC, heat pumps and ductless mini splits.
  • $125 diagnostic credited toward the repair if you go ahead.
  • Licensed and insured, and a Duke Energy verified contractor.
  • 24/7 phone service at (727) 761-8873.
  • Free estimates on new systems and replacements, and GoodLeap financing on approved credit.

See thermostat installation in Pinellas Park.

Sources: Google Nest Help, troubleshoot Nest thermostat help codes, including E1 and E4/E24/E74 (support.google.com).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my Nest thermostat cool below a certain temperature?

Check whether Eco mode, a schedule or a temperature limit is set in the Nest app. If the settings are fine and the house still won't cool, the AC itself may have a problem, such as low refrigerant, a dirty coil or an undersized system. See our guide to an AC running constantly.

Do you answer the phone 24/7?

Yes. Call (727) 761-8873 any time.

Do you offer free estimates?

Free estimates are for new systems and replacements. Repairs start with our $125 diagnostic, credited toward the repair if you go ahead.

Still have questions? A real person answers 24/7. Call (727) 761-8873

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