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 show up. The exact error code provides 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 could discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. As 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 problem is resolved.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have happened further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover 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 make sure it’s not merely a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and slowly check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. After they pinpoint the problem connector, it can be replaced 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally power down. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to find anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact 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 receiving more power than what is safe and normal. 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 figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat believes there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

While this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. 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 enough power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead be required 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent through the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as easy 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 examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional.