How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Here are seven of the most likely error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts 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 disconnected from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is fixed.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll detach the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they find the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components including 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 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician will cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Even though 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 missing one can block your Nest from receiving 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’ll 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 has already been installed, you’ll instead need to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.

e104 – Critical

Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can 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 contact a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.