Using a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the day-to-day schedule of your HVAC system. 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 show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts required to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is shut off. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change 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 could have happened further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 is displayed 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 merely a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. Once they pinpoint the damaged connector, it can be replaced for a new one.

e195 – Critical

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

As this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power by using a USB cable. Assuming it reveals error code 195, you can continue to visually check components such as 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 suggests an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than needed. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or thanks to a defective connection in the thermostat. Your technician should cautiously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand 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 could still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from getting 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 can get a Nest Power Connector.

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

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it could damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it could 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 best to get in touch with a local professional.