Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to optimize the daily schedule of your heating and cooling. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you may expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code on the display. The precise error code provides useful information about the root of the problem, something a professional technician can use to provide solutions that much quicker.

Listed below are seven of the most likely error codes you might encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code as well as how you might address it and the approximate cost to do so. Don’t forget that while the investment will ultimately be dependent on the exact Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs as well as any specific components required to finish repairs.

e298 – Critical

This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is detached from the system. Because 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 may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This may be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician will 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, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first conduct a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll review the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start checking connectors.

They’ll shut off the power and gradually check each wire, seeing to it that they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. After they pinpoint the malfunctioning connector, it can be swapped for a new one.

e195 – Critical

This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is especially hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can inspect a handful of other places before contacting a professional technician.

Since this error can drain your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re working with. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power through a USB cable. In the event it presents error code 195, you should continue to visually check components like the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t uncover anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to call a pro.

e103 – Critical

Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 may refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is receiving 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 defective connection in the thermostat. A technician can carefully examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.

n260

Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still prevent 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 inspect the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adjust the wiring itself if there is. If not, you can get a Nest Power Connector.

During installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector was already installed, you’ll instead have 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 stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is sent using the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as possible. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the proper experience identifying and resolving electrical damage.

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 shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s a good idea to speak with a local professional.