Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you might address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific 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 complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will continue to be displayed until the issue is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they find 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, 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 merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they locate the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

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

Because this error can deplete 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 deliver power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components like 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 call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to cautiously examine 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

Although this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep 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 receiving enough power. You can examine 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved 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

Just 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 could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.