Google Nest Thermostat E Not Working Properly

The Google Nest Thermostat E is an affordable smart thermostat with a frosted display and energy-saving features. This guide covers common issues with heating, cooling, and connectivity.

Common Symptoms

  • Display showing low battery or not turning on
  • HVAC not responding to commands
  • Thermostat going offline frequently
  • Short cycling or delayed response
  • Incorrect temperature reading
  • Schedule not being followed

Power and Battery Issues

Low Battery Warning

Nest Thermostat E charges from the HVAC system:

  • Low battery usually indicates C-wire or power issue
  • Run system in heat/cool mode to charge battery
  • If persistent, C-wire installation may be needed
  • Check wiring at thermostat and equipment

Thermostat Won't Turn On

  1. Pull thermostat from base to check connections
  2. Press and hold display for 10 seconds to attempt restart
  3. Charge via USB if critically low (use Nest USB cable)
  4. Verify base has power (wires from HVAC)

HVAC Not Responding

1. Check Equipment Status

  • Verify thermostat is calling for heat/cool (icon on display)
  • Check circuit breakers for HVAC system
  • Listen for equipment sounds when thermostat calls
  • Check equipment for error codes or diagnostic lights

2. Verify Wiring

  • Go to Settings > Equipment > Wiring in Nest app
  • Compare displayed wiring with actual connections
  • Ensure wires are pushed fully into terminals
  • No bare wires should touch other terminals

3. System Compatibility

Nest Thermostat E works with most systems but not all:

  • Not compatible with some multi-stage or dual-fuel systems
  • Requires Heat Link for European heating systems
  • Check Nest compatibility checker online

WiFi Connectivity

Connecting to WiFi

  1. Press thermostat and go to Settings > Network
  2. Select your WiFi network
  3. Enter password
  4. Wait for connection confirmation

Frequent Disconnections

  • Check WiFi signal strength (Settings > Technical Info)
  • Move router closer or use WiFi extender
  • Ensure router firmware is updated
  • Try reserving IP address for thermostat in router

Temperature Issues

Reading Seems Wrong

  • Compare with separate thermometer
  • Thermostat may read higher if in direct sunlight
  • Air from vents can affect reading
  • Allow time to acclimate after installation

Not Reaching Setpoint

  • Check HVAC filter—replace if dirty
  • Ensure vents are open and unobstructed
  • Verify equipment is sized for your home
  • Allow 15-20 minutes for temperature change

Schedule and Learning

Schedule Not Working

  1. Check if schedule is enabled in Nest app
  2. Look for manual temperature holds
  3. Verify time zone is correct
  4. Disable Home/Away if causing issues

Home/Away Issues

  • Nest uses phone location and motion detection
  • Ensure app has location permission
  • All household members should have Home/Away enabled
  • Motion sensor needs line of sight to room

Error Messages

Common Nest E error codes:

  • E73: C-wire or power issue
  • E74: No power to RC or RH wire
  • N260: WiFi connection lost
  • W1: Cooling/heating delayed for protection

Factory Reset

  1. Go to Settings > Reset > All Settings
  2. Confirm reset
  3. Thermostat will restart with default settings
  4. Remove from Nest app and re-add as new device

When to Contact Support

Contact Nest/Google support or HVAC technician if:

  • Persistent power/battery issues
  • HVAC won't respond after troubleshooting
  • Error codes don't clear after fixes
  • Suspected wiring problems