Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 show up. The precise error code offers useful information about the underlying problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much quicker.

Here are seven of the most common error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might solve it and the approximate cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like 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 shows up when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will swap to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display 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 happened further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly look at each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped 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 giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally turn off. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a few other places before contacting a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be restoring 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 supply power through a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually check 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 will likely be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical problem with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to cautiously 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

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it may still stop you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from obtaining 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 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 resolved 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

Just like 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 could even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This might be as simple as the breaker being turned off, but it can also be a problem with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine 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.