Here’s What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you could address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include 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 is displayed when the power is shut off. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might 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 certified technician can check 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 has 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 just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t 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 suggests 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 necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician will 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 can still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want 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 obtaining 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and resolving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After turning 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 a good idea to speak with a local professional.