Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.

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 on top of how you can address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up 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 issue 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 electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will 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 because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine 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 might still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. 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 adequate power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 is already 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 excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.