Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. Because 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 dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will inspect 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 needs 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 issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. Once they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly 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 shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check components such as 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’s maybe best to call 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 what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician should cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting enough 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was 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 excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may 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 switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes 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 check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.