How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you might address it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required 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 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 the screen until the issue is dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the malfunctioning 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 shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect 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 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician will cautiously inspect 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer 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 obtaining sufficient 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After switching 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 seems to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.