How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.

Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific 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 necessary to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they locate the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.

Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components like 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’s maybe best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 may still keep 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 not having one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can inspect 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and resolving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power.

This may be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.