How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 specific error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. 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 problem is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced 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 delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can deplete 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 separate the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components including 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 likely be best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician should carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 stop 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from getting adequate 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.

With 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

Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving 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 turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.