How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

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

They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of bare 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 particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components like 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 will likely be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced 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 prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can examine 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. 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

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 could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and fixing 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 easy as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting 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 appears to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.