How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the exact 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 hardware needed to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped 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 drains and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components including 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 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 defective connection in the thermostat. A technician can meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

While this error code isn’t critical, it may 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. 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

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from 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 turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as straightforward as the breaker being shut 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 examine the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.