How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the day-to-day 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 correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer 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 resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should examine 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, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete 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 start looking at connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components like 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 contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will 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. Your technician can meticulously 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 could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can check 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could 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 a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.