Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you can expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a trained technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.

Here are seven of the most frequent error codes you might discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code as well as how you might fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts necessary to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is disconnected from the system. As 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 could have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A professional technician can inspect electrical connections and wiring until they uncover the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

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

They’ll disconnect the power and progressively check each wire, making sure they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. When they find the problem connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can show up when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down 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 inspect a handful of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be restoring 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 by using a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact 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 what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. The technician needs to meticulously examine 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

While this error code isn’t critical, it could 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 not having one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 show up. 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

Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excess power is transported inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and may even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code show up on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s a good idea to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it may also be a problem with the wiring. After switching 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 appears to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.