Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware necessary to complete 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. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician will cautiously investigate 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

Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining enough power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be dealt with by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is transported using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and solving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After switching 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 seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.