Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught 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 source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you can fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware 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 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 a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your 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 root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and progressively check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.

As 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 supply power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician can cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. 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 receiving enough power. You can inspect 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 show up. This can be remedied 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear 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 in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

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