Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific 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 frequent error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying between $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 new models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can examine 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 needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

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

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent 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 not having 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied 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

Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.