Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you can solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components needed to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is resolved.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has 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 error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll detach the power and gradually inspect each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error 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 may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician can meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent 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 missing one can block your Nest from receiving 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with 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

Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and resolving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as easy as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 contact a local professional.