Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $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 newer 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 switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is dealt with.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

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

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components including 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 call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving 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. A technician needs to carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify 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 show up. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 sent through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as straightforward as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.