Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to improve the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make improvements. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.

Here are seven of the most common error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you might solve it and the projected cost to do so. Remember that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying between $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the problem is dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection might have occurred further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician can examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate the root of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring should 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 just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin inspecting connectors.

They’ll detach the power and slowly inspect each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of bare copper. When they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop delivering power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lingers, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can search a few other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be restoring 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 deliver power with a USB cable. Assuming it presents error code 195, you can continue to visually inspect components such as the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to detect anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This can stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician should cautiously examine 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 may 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 receiving sufficient power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and modify the wiring itself if there is. If not, you need a Nest Power Connector.

During 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 be required 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 being delivered through the Nest’s wiring, it could 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 take steps to prevent electrical damage, it’s suggested to switch the power off straightaway. You can then get in touch with a professional technician with the necessary experience identifying and solving electrical malfunctions.

e73 – Critical

When your thermostat displays error code e73, it means that the Rc wire is not receiving power. This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be a problem 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 contact a local professional.