Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to perfect the daily schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can be taught your preferences and automatically make changes. But as you can expect, it won’t work well 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 knowledgeable technician can use to present solutions that much quicker.

Let’s consider seven of the most likely error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code along with how you could address it and the estimated cost to do so. Remember that while the investment will ultimately hinge on the precise Nest model, you can anticipate paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts necessary to wrap up repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to the latest models of the Nest thermostat and appears when the power is detached from the system. 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 dealt with.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for a number of reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in your electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they locate 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, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start inspecting connectors.

They’ll disconnect the power and slowly look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully attached 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 severely hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will eventually turn off. In the event the breakers are on, you can inspect a couple of other places before calling a professional technician.

Because this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be providing enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and supply power with a USB cable. In the event it displays 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 find anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving more power than necessary. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. Your technician can cautiously inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still stop you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as missing one can block your Nest from obtaining adequate power. You can inspect 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.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you will sometimes notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead have 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to protect from electrical damage, it’s suggested to turn the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience detecting and fixing electrical issues.

e73 – Critical

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

This may be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. After switching off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.