Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code appear. The specific error code supplies useful information about the underlying problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much sooner.

Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could find on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you can solve it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs as well as any specific hardware needed 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 switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the problem is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician can 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 needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician should reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin 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 correct amount of uncovered copper. Once 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 fail and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, 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 few other places before calling a professional technician.

As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step might be supplying enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and supply power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually examine components like 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 probably be best to contact a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than what is safe and normal. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician should carefully investigate 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 can 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 inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 appear. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead need 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code show 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 contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as straightforward as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually examine the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing seems to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.