Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. 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 supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you might fix it and the projected cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific components necessary to wrap up 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. 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 could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician will examine 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 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 just a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll detach the power and slowly check each wire, ensuring they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of bare copper. When they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.

Because this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may 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 provide power with a USB cable. Assuming it displays error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components such as 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 get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than what is safe and normal. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a bad connection in the thermostat. Your technician needs to meticulously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it could 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 receiving adequate power. You can check 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 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead have to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.

e104 – Critical

Like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as you can. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being turned 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 check the wires to make sure they’re not loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to speak with a local professional.