Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware required to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and shows up 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 continue to be displayed until the issue is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not just a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they find the damaged connector, it can be swapped 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power by using 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 uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error 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 can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician will carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes 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 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting sufficient power. You can examine 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 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 be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.

e104 – Critical

Just 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 can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting 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 may 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 they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.