Using a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can 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 trained technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware necessary to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician should 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 should be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they find the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep 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 the absence of one can block your Nest from receiving adequate 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.

e104 – Critical

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and fixing electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be an issue 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.