Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you can expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The specific error code offers useful information about the source of the problem, something a trained technician can use to offer solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you can fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the costs will ultimately depend 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 components needed to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is disconnected from the system. Because 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 dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can check electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first complete a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not merely a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll detach the power and gradually look at each wire, ensuring they are fully attached into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is severely hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Presuming the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before consulting a professional technician.

Because this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power with a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you can’t 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 malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician should meticulously inspect 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat how you want 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 enough power. You can inspect 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 remedied 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

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can 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 recommended to turn the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the appropriate experience detecting and resolving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as easy as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After turning 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.