How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.

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 as well as how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts required to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should examine 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 should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before consulting a professional technician.

Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician should carefully inspect 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 could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. 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 getting adequate 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 excess power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and solving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After switching 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.