Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and progressively check each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. In the event 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’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests 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 can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician can meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out 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 can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want 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 getting sufficient power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt 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 has already been 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside 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 protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After switching 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 seems to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.