Using a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly 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 professional technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately depend on the precise Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts necessary to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears 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 problem is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect 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, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete 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 start checking connectors.

They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. After 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 especially hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover 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 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving 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. The technician can carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it can 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 missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead need 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s recommended 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 damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be an issue 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 time to contact a local professional.