Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Snow

I recently installed the Google Nest Thermostat in my home, and while it has proven to be a reliable and efficient device overall, there were a few initial setbacks that required professional assistance. Here's my review based on my experience:Installation and Setup: 3/5The installation process for the Google Nest Thermostat was relatively straightforward, thanks to the instructional video provided. However, I encountered difficulties during the setup that only resulted in the fan turning on rather than the complete functioning of my AC system. As a result, I had to seek professional help to rectify the issue. It would have been helpful if the setup instructions were more comprehensive and addressed potential troubleshooting scenarios.Performance and Functionality: 4/5Once the installation and setup issues were resolved, the Google Nest Thermostat performed admirably. It effectively regulated the temperature in both my upstairs and downstairs areas, providing a comfortable environment throughout my home. The thermostat's ability to learn and adapt to my preferences over time was a notable feature that enhanced its functionality.Connectivity and Internet Dependency: 3/5One aspect that proved to be a challenge was the dependency of the Google Nest Thermostat on a stable internet connection. In instances when my internet was down, the device experienced numerous issues. It would have been beneficial if the thermostat had more robust offline capabilities to ensure uninterrupted operation even without an internet connection.User-Friendliness and Interface: 4/5The user interface of the Google Nest Thermostat is intuitive and easy to navigate. The device offers a sleek and modern design, with a clear display that provides relevant information at a glance. Controlling the thermostat through the mobile app was convenient and straightforward, allowing me to adjust settings remotely.Energy Efficiency: 4/5One of the key advantages of the Google Nest Thermostat is its energy-saving capabilities. By automatically adjusting the temperature based on occupancy and learning from my usage patterns, it helped optimize energy consumption in my home. This feature not only benefits the environment but also saves money on energy bills in the long run.Conclusion:Overall, the Google Nest Thermostat is a reliable smart home device that effectively regulates temperature and offers energy-saving benefits. However, the initial installation and setup process proved to be more challenging than anticipated, requiring professional assistance. Additionally, the device's dependence on a stable internet connection may present issues during internet outages. Despite these hiccups, once properly installed and connected, the thermostat performs admirably and provides an intuitive user experience.

I’m absolutely thrilled with my Nest Thermostat! From the sleek design to the energy-saving features, it’s easily one of the best smart home upgrades I’ve made.Setup was smooth, and even though my system didn’t have a C wire, the Nest worked perfectly in my home without it. The Google Nest Compatibility Checker was super helpful to confirm this before purchasing.I love that it automatically turns itself down when we’re away, which has already made a noticeable difference in our energy usage. Programming a schedule is simple through the Google Home app, and the remote control feature means I can adjust the temperature from anywhere—whether I’m at work or on vacation.The Savings Finder is a genius touch—it actually recommends tweaks to save more energy, and I’ve even discovered rebate options through my utility company. Plus, the HVAC monitoring alerts give me peace of mind that my system is running smoothly.Voice control through Google Assistant works flawlessly, and it’s compatible with all my other smart home devices. I also love the Nest Renew feature—it’s great knowing I’m supporting clean energy just by using my thermostat wisely.Highly recommend this smart thermostat to anyone looking to save energy, stay comfortable, and modernize their home!

UPDATE: Nest AccuracyJust spent 40 minutes chatting with some at the Google store regarding the accuracy of their Nest thermostat product.Asked what I thought was a pretty straightforward question - how accurate is the temperature and humidity data shown in my Nest app? Just installed a new AprilAire whole house humidifier and wanted to quantify the change.Well, it seems there isn’t much documentation available… Was told that they thought the temperature was accurate to 1% - and the same applied to its humidity setting. Pointed out that 1% was probably not an issue at 50% humidity, but would be miles off at a 10% environment.They did offer to sell me another one, I guess to benchmark it to my existing Nest (which might or might not be refurbished), but I declined.Shame consumer products not getting the support they deserve - especially one that directly impacts household environmental quality.Bottom line: Is this thermostat accurate - don’t know.If you’re like me, and would like to know what you’re getting into before you start a project, Nest thermostat installation will be frustrating.Picking one out to begin with is confusing - C wire, no C wire, etc - hooking up fairly straight forward, the tough part is getting the thing to eventually work…There is literally nothing in the box that helps sort any of this out - you will learn/fail as you go along with the on line set up and thousands of YouTube tutorials. Google saves $1 per unit by not including directions and leaves it up to the Nest “community” to walk you through it. Hopefully.After diagnosing we had a wiring issue (wire broke trying to jockeying it into the baseplate) we ended up with a persistent E294 error code. Again, Google saves money by not having any on line live chat or call center and we ended up getting by with one of the YouTube “experts” advice (disconnect and set up again) which finally worked after a couple hours effort.The most telling sign that Google underplays how easy this is to install is how quickly they route you to an installation company to make your headaches go away.The end result is a fancy set back thermometer (which we already had) that connects to your phone, spies on your activity, and encourages you to let your power company decide how comfortable you are going to be.The only benefit I see in this device is potentially easier programming - and seeing and adjusting comfort levels away from home. Spouse works from home, so setback features fairly minimal during the day, but knowing that system was not running properly (which recently happened when out of town) is nice.UPDATE: Much like the Ring doorbell we recently installed, Nest makes it impossible (so far) to easily add a second user to their account. Trying to add myself as a second user, the Nest said there was something wrong with the thermostat and would require yet another factory reset - which I am not ready to do as it has already taken over two hours just to get it working in the first place.Signing in as my spouse, can finally see the pretty basic control panel for the Nest thermostat. Don’t see any system health features (like battery life) or any programming suggestions (like eco mode) that would add value to this product.Without a sizable rebate from our electric utility, probably would have never purchased this product and waste several hours installing and troubleshooting. Support is nearly nonexistent and/or unreliable sourced.UPDATE 2: After battling with the Nest for a week, decided we had to invest more $$$ in a remote temperature sensor. Our Nest is stationed in corner of dining room and therefore sees little traffic to activate it. Having a warm Summer, was getting tired of Nest going Eco on us and letting house get into the 77-78 degree range, especially since it was set to 74.After fiddling around with the remote sensor, it eventually dawned on us that we had just purchased an early generation Nest, built several years ago, which would not recognize any sensor we tried to pair it with. We, wrongly assumed in this case, a brand new Google Nest would be, brand new (latest generation).Had the pleasure of paying $6 to return this useless accessory.