How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could discover 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 costs will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate 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 should 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 examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Since this error can consume 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 provide power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as 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 contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine 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 may still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from receiving enough 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 too much power is being delivered using 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 suggested to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine 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 contact a local professional.