Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you could fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is fixed.

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

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually inspect each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

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

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t detect anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician should cautiously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still prevent 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 getting 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’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be dealt with 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

Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to speak with a local professional.