Here's What These 7 Nest Thermostat Error Codes Mean

Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. 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 dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This could 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 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and progressively inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut 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 could be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover 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 will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to 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 examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can 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 suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and solving 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 simple 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 nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.