Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might address it and the estimated cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific components required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is disconnected from the system. Because this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen 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 could have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root 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 complete a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they find the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally power down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a couple of other places before consulting a professional technician.

As this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can separate the thermostat from its base and provide power by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to get in touch with 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 will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to carefully inspect 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. 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 inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

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

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and can 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 recommended to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be something 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 looks to be out of place, it’s best to get in touch with a local professional.