How to Resolve These Seven Error Codes on Your Nest Thermostat

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

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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, 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 just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they locate the problem connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface 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 turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete 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 disconnect the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as 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 contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes 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 prefer 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 examine 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.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with 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 transported through 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 a good idea to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and solving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.