How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. 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 root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up 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 a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in the electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can inspect 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct 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 start looking at connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint 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 giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes 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.

Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician should cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

While 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 missing one can block your Nest from getting adequate 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with 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

Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.