Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to improve the everyday 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 properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could address it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately hinge on the exact Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts needed to finish 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 remain on the screen until the issue is dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in the electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should check 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 conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly check each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they locate the problem connector, it can be exchanged 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 giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can check a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will probably be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may 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 because of a bad connection in the thermostat. The technician should carefully examine 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 keep 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 receiving sufficient 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was 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 originating from an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s a good idea to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and resolving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This might 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 check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.