Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work well 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 provide solutions that much quicker.

Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts 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 disconnected 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 resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they find the problem 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually check components including 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 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside 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 protect from 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 proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.