Seven Common Error Codes for Nest Thermostats

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The exact error code offers useful information about the root of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific components required to complete 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. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can check 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 conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When 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 particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting 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 dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components including 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 get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously 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

Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. 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 adequate power. You can examine 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 might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is 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 excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.