Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The precise error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific hardware necessary to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. 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 resolved.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to 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 ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they locate 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 fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. In the event the breakers are on, you can examine a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.

Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including 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’s maybe best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can 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 through a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously examine 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it can still stop 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 missing 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 adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need 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 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 transported using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not getting power. This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.