How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware needed to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. As 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 resolved.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and progressively inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. Once they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially 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. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error 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 may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

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

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved 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 too much power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as straightforward 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 none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.