How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. As 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 problem is fixed.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. After they find the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut 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 turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may 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 supply power with a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components such as 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to 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 keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having 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 modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required 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 excess power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can 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 recommended to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may 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 looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.