How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you can fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts necessary to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap 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 numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could 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 find the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

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

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently power 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. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can cautiously 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 might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can examine 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 appear. This can be resolved 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

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it may 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.