Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.

Listed below are seven of the most frequent error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code along with how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts required to wrap up 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 may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have occurred further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should check 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, 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 simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a few other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. If 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 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can cautiously inspect 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 could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can check 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already 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 originating from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it could also be a problem with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.