How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the everyday 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 appear. The precise error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through 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 investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. Since 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 problem is resolved.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. In the event it displays 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 likely be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem 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 will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep 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 not having one can block your Nest from getting 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 need a Nest Power Connector.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could 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 a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.