Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to optimize the everyday schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn 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 appear. The precise error code supplies useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most common error codes you may encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code as well as how you could solve it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should also cover travel and labor costs as well as any specific parts needed to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up 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 problem is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring could have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have appeared further along in the electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A trained technician should 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 has to 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 simply a software issue. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review 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 damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can surface when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can fail and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will subsequently shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of 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 separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. If it presents error code 195, you may continue to visually inspect 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’s maybe best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical malfunction with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting 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. A technician can 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

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 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from getting adequate power. You can examine 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 will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be resolved 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

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If too much power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and may 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 recommended to shut the power off straightaway. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and resolving electrical problems.

e73 – Critical

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

This could be as easy as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be an issue 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 looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.