How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 on the display. The exact error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you might address it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific components required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer 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 switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is dealt with.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up 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 depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe 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 receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician should meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep 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 getting enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already 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 being delivered using 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 protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and resolving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.