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 was looking for a basic, smart thermostat for our cabin so I could monitor the temperature over the winter in the event of heating issues or someone kicking the door in and it freezing inside; and also, because we turn the heat way down while not there, I could turn it back up on the way there and have it already warm when we arrive. As I read reviews on this thermostat, which I kept going back to when I reviewed others, it seemed like most complaints were about needing a "c" wire to the thermostat and Google not disclosing that. I can't speak to that as I'm not sure it's absolutely necessary, I knew nothing of wiring a thermostat to a furnace. I went into it though assuming I needed a "c" wire and researched different ways to do it. There were other complaints like displayed temperature inaccuracies, but at the end of the day I went with the basic Google Nest in sand color (looks pink to me). I'm glad I spent the time researching ahead of time and, so far, glad I didn't listen to the "don't buy this product" reviews. Does exactly what I want it to do, easy to use, displays perfectly accurate temperature, and was easy to install (again, glad I researched quite a bit and was prepared). Now for my install experience: Just for the record, my cabin furnace is heat only, so I only really needed 2 low voltage wires from the thermostat to the furnace. The existing cable had 3 wires however, one of which (the green one) was not hooked up at either end. FYI, take the advice of the "how to" videos and take a picture of the wire locations on the old thermostat before removing them, and make sure the furnace breaker is off too. The green wire, as I researched, is usually for operating the furnace fan separate from when it's on for heating or cooling, something I, and probably most people, don't use. The white and red wires were hooked to their corresponding letter coded (R&W) spaces on the thermostat and furnace. I had purchased a plug-in 24v transformer with a long set of wires, based on my previous research, to use as the "c" wire, which I learned supplies power to the thermostat. I intended on plugging it into a nearby outlet, running the wire alongside some doorframe trim, which would hide the wire, and into the wall behind the new thermostat. This, I think, would have worked just fine. I also learned though, from watching another "how-to" video just before I started the project, that all furnaces have a 24v connection space along with where all the other thermostat wires would go. So I just hooked the unused green wire to the "c", or 24v, spot on the furnace and to the "c" connector on the Nest thermostat. *The Nest comes with wire identifying stickers and I did label this wire on both ends to indicate it's now the power wire. Once the wiring was done, turned the breaker back on and followed the install directions from the Google Home app. The only minor issues I had was that the display was in Celsius, not Fahrenheit, and it took me awhile to figure out that this needed to be changed via the phone app, not the thermostat. There may be a way, but I couldn't figure that out. Also, was a little nervous because of the previous reviews I read when the initial temperature displayed about 4-5 degrees above the actual temperature, but by the time I cleaned everything up, it was right on. In Google's defense, it did indicate it takes a little bit to adjust itself. Very happy with it and glad I picked this one-so far anyhow.