Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the daily 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 well or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you may find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware needed to finish 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. 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 issue is dealt with.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears 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 merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. Once they pinpoint the problem 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 fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components such as 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 likely be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. The 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

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

Due to 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 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much 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 appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.