Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you might expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code provides useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware needed to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As 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 several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate 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 ensure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll detach the power and gradually check each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before contacting a professional technician.

Since 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 disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually check components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies 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 necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician will meticulously investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to determine where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks 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 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing 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 adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be resolved by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could 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 a good idea to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience detecting and resolving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After switching 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 appears to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.