How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap 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 may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. After they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can cautiously investigate 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

Although this error code isn’t critical, it can still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 show up. This can be remedied 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

Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and resolving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as straightforward 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 inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.