Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific components needed to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will examine 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, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may 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 will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving adequate 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 might notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied 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 excess power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.