Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. 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 provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as 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 detached from the system. As 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 problem is dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to 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 check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it presents 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 get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error 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 will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead need to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.

e104 – Critical

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it may 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 protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.