Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

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 recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific components needed to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is severely 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 drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with 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 experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician will meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

While this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. 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 sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be a problem 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 appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.