How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As 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 problem is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to 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 just a software problem. 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 check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine 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 will likely be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it may 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 obtaining adequate power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to contact a local professional.