How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware needed to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check 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, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform 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 checking connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they find the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event 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 don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to carefully investigate 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

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop 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 enough power. You can examine 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 may notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved 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 transported through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.