Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the daily schedule of your comfort system. 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 show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware needed to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the problem is fixed.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll detach the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they find 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 especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. If it displays 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 probably be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical problem 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 because of a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to meticulously 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

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep 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 obtaining adequate power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust 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 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it could 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

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