Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn 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 precise error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might solve it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected 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 issue is dealt with.

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 the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to 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 issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially 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 depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check 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 probably be best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician can cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving enough 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

Due to 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 be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.

e104 – Critical

Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against 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 necessary experience detecting and resolving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After turning 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.