How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day 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 properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code offers 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 likely error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap 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 could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate 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 will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll detach the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they locate 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 fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician will cautiously investigate 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop 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 getting adequate power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes 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 be required 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 excessive power is transported through 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 guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.