How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared 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 uncover the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

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

e195 – Critical

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

As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components such as 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’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to cautiously examine 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 might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can check 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.

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 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as easy as the breaker being switched 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 inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.