How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize 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 show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

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 along with how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears 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 remain on the screen until the issue 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 appeared further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they find the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring 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. Assuming 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 don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can examine 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead have 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excessive power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may 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 turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.