Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work properly or at all if you see an error code appear. The exact error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.

Here are seven of the most common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components necessary 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 shut off. Since 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 a number of reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will inspect electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 shows up when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and progressively look at each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged 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 sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will finally turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be providing enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t find anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will 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 through a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician should carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from getting adequate power. You can inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.

With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 appear. 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 that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it can 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and resolving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be an issue with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to contact a local professional.