How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through 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 price will ultimately be dependent 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 parts required to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed 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 problem is resolved.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software error. 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 gradually look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before consulting a professional technician.

Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to 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 problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine 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 prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to 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 examine 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 might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.

e104 – Critical

Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.