Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you may expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code provides useful information about the underlying problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you can solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately hinge on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware needed to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest 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 may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will 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 has to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll detach the power and progressively look at each wire, ensuring they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they find the malfunctioning connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is particularly 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 depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as 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 call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a faulty connection in the thermostat. The technician will meticulously 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

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop 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 obtaining enough power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been 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 excess power is being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and fixing electrical damage.

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 could also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.