Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. 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 issue is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to 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 start looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.

Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to 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 receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective 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 believes there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving adequate power. You can check 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied 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 excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and solving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it could 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.