How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best 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 can expect, it won’t work correctly 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 offer solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components required 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 disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed 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 could have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears 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 ensure it’s not simply 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, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying 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 with a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to cautiously examine 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

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

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