Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to improve the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The exact error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to offer solutions that much faster.

Let’s consider seven of the most frequent error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll review the basics of each error code along with how you can address it and the projected cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the costs will ultimately depend on the exact Nest model, you can count on paying around $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs along with any specific parts required to complete repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and appears 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 remain on the screen until the issue is fixed.

Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection could have happened further along in your electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.

e294 – Critical

Critical error code e294 appears 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 error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll check the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin looking at connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and progressively look at each wire, making sure they are fully attached into the connector with the proper amount of exposed copper. Once they pinpoint the problem 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 shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem lasts, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will finally shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a few other places before calling a professional technician.

Since this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step may be supplying enough power to figure out if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can disconnect the thermostat from its base and provide power through a USB cable. Assuming 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 find anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to get in touch with a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 signifies an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than what is safe and normal. This will sometimes stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or through a defective connection in the thermostat. A technician needs to carefully inspect and test the Nest’s electrical system to understand where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it could still prevent you from using the Nest thermostat like normal. Error code n260 refers to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.

Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. 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

Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error that’s the result of an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to switch the power off as soon as possible. You can then contact a professional technician with the necessary experience diagnosing and solving electrical damage.

e73 – Critical

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

This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being switched off, but it may also be an issue with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.