How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware necessary 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 swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the damaged 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 persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician should meticulously investigate 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 how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can check 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 may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting 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 a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.