Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.

Here are seven of the most likely error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. Since 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 several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears 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 make sure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of uncovered copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying 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 deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect components including 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 likely be 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 what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to carefully investigate 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

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

Due to 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 is 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 too much power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.