Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.

Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary 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 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 display until the problem is dealt with.

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

e294 – Critical

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

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to 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 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician will 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 prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

With 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 is 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it could 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 protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving 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 check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.