Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 show up. The precise error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you could fix it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts needed to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate 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 ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

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

Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power by using a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician should carefully investigate 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it could still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can check 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. This can be resolved 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 excessive power is transported through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as straightforward 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 inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.