How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you can solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific components necessary to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest 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 swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the damaged 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 shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might 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 supply power through a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually check components such as 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 likely be best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of 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 is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

While this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining sufficient power. You can inspect 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.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.