Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts needed to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can 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 merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply 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 don’t uncover 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 getting 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. The technician can meticulously 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 might 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 getting sufficient power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.