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damionrux t1_iy9txe1 wrote

Subsidize the cost of a smart thermostat to negate the spike in heating costs this season. Mmmkay

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9uyu4 wrote

To be fair... this has been a thing before they took over.

They're just money grubbers.

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damionrux t1_iy9vwgn wrote

I mean, you’re right. I’m just salty- and cold.

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noungning t1_iy9vmzp wrote

I bought 2 when someone else posted it.

I have the nicer one but it doesn't have battery and died in the winter because it didn't get enough power from the boiler lol. I kept talking to Nest and they sent me 2 new ones to try and it kept on having the same issue. And they basically abandoned troubleshooting.

But since I saw that this model has the battery I figure I'd try it again. But I won't be installing it til sometime in the spring just in case it doesn't work and we'd freeze in the winter unless I swap it with the old thermostat again.

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mintsandcoke t1_iya5mrq wrote

Do you have a common wire? I didn’t have one on my boiler and had to run the nest power connector to get it to work. This thread was helpful.

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noungning t1_iya5yi0 wrote

I have a common wire on my AC but not on my boiler, so it works fine in the summer, but not in the winter lol. I tried almost everything in 2018 and finally gave up. That old one is in a box somewhere in my closet.

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internetTroll151 t1_iybbzj2 wrote

The common wire should provide continuous power, even when the system is off

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_-Unbeliever-_ t1_iy9mg5r wrote

Without a common wire the nest (and other smart stats) use ugly hacks to drop the voltage between R and one of the other control pins. The side effect is that a lower voltage means more current to maintain the same wattage. This can cause damage to both old school transformers and new digital control systems. The nest will also short cycle your system occasionally to charge the battery if there is no C wire and the system isnt running enough.

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buddhamanjpb t1_iy9rdux wrote

For anyone concerned about this, I would recommend getting the Sensi thermostat. It works great with 2 wire systems and can be controlled through an app on your phone. I've been using two for about 3 years now. Great purchase.

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Jack__Squat t1_iy9t1ei wrote

I second that. The Sensi uses a battery (I think to make up for the lack of a C wire). I have no complaints about it. The battery lasts a long time. You get a warning when it's getting low. And it has all the same features like a smart app, event alerts, schedules, and Alexa integration. It also has a setting to prevent short-cycling.

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buddhamanjpb t1_iy9t5kv wrote

Yup, uses two AA's, they last about a year.

I actually didn't know this about the Nest, glad I never ended up getting one.

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tommygfunke t1_iyas92k wrote

Which model do you have? I was just on their website and both models require a C-wire (or adapter).

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buddhamanjpb t1_iyb17fw wrote

I have the older white model. I forget the model name.

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jdmess401 t1_iy9p5aw wrote

Despite all the “DIY” references in their marketing, Nest recommends installation by a heating technician or an electrician, in part for this reason.

Having installed a Nest myself, I recommend heeding their suggestion. I replaced a troublesome Lux thermostat with a Nest. It turns out my home’s previous owners had mislabeled the wiring, which was causing the Lux to malfunction and meant the Nest didn’t work at first. It took me about an hour to figure out the issue. A professional probably would have had it figured out in no time.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9oq8s wrote

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degggendorf t1_iy9q2cc wrote

That's what the other person is describing.

If you only have two wires to your thermostat, they are designed to be connected or not connected; that's the only way the system is designed to communicate. The thermostat can't power itself from two disconnected wires, and if it connects them, then it turns the heat on. Enter the Nest Power Connector that only kinda connects the wires...enough to pull a bit of power for the thermostat, but not enough to actually turn on the heat.

Opinions will vary whether that is okay or not, but it is objectively using things in a way they weren't designed, and the majority opinion of HVAC professionals seems to be that it's no bueno.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9rglr wrote

I realized it after I had posted my response and agree I misunderstood his point.

I had done some review digging its you are correct. Folks with no C wire seem to have partial success with their units however there is a lot of ugly reviews out there.

https://www.amazon.com/Google-Nest-Power-Connector-Accessories/dp/B093TRFQWP?th=1

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degggendorf t1_iy9sh5b wrote

For sure, it seems highly dependent on the exact system whether it likes it or not, in addition to how frequently the heat runs and how much it can charge its battery.

I ended up running new wiring for my two heat-only zones to avoid all the headache. Before that, using a 24VAC wall transformer with wire running up to the thermostat worked well too, but was kinda unsightly.

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zjanderson t1_iy9rlgi wrote

Google sends these out for free. Don’t purchase it.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9rrcg wrote

Source?

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zjanderson t1_iy9snh9 wrote

One of mine did not have a C wire installed and the app detected low power. I got an email from Google stating I could claim one.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9t167 wrote

Kinda sounds like the device thought it had a faulty product and google decided to just send you a new unit rather than deal with troubleshooting..

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Gsquzared t1_iya1jw8 wrote

Same. Just commented with my experience after coughing up the $40 for the connect kit.

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noungning t1_iy9vvlx wrote

This model has battery and shouldn't have that issue, but I guess we'll see in a few months.

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Gsquzared t1_iya44ft wrote

It does request a c wire when you hook it up.

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noungning t1_iya4em9 wrote

Well that goes against the info page then. I might just end up reselling these in that case. I don't want to deal with the headache I dealt with the other one I have.

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Gsquzared t1_iyakoxk wrote

Google had some steep discounts on the Nest E thermostats. Those don't require the c wire.

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phill0406 t1_iy9zu5z wrote

My work around was to snake this power adatper through the wall into the basement and plug it in. Has worked for 2 years no issues.

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Gsquzared t1_iya1cnk wrote

You may be able to get the Nest Power Connect for free from Google.

I got my nest from this promotion last week (came pretty quick), only to find out this version needs a common wire. I have two Nest E thermostats for other zones that work fine already so I didn't think much about it. I coughed up another $40 for the Nest Power Connect and a trim kit. I got it all hooked up and it works ok, but I still get some occasional errors about unstable power. Then today I got an email from Google offering a free power connect to help with the power issue. So maybe you can skip a step and get one free from Google.

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sbaz86 t1_iyb1q1y wrote

This person knows exactly what he’s talking about. It’ll damage your HVAC equipment.

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huh_phd t1_iy9twkp wrote

Yeah, not going to install any sort of nanny electronics in my house.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9v763 wrote

It's a thermostat...

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huh_phd t1_iy9vbka wrote

That collects your data. You can just use a non Google product?

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9w1tn wrote

To determine a better heating/cooling cycle.

The heck you think they're collecting make?

Tastful nudes of you?

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dramaticlobsters t1_iya2gzi wrote

No it collect my "data". I have no idea what that actually is but it sounds important. BRB gonna go post intimate details about my life on social media.

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_-Unbeliever-_ t1_iya34n6 wrote

1, The Nest has a microphone, and a CCTV that constantly monitors the home.

2, The nest can be overridden by a remote source. RIEnergy could lower your heating or cooling setpoints at any time.

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dramaticlobsters t1_iyaclqm wrote

1.The nest thermostat does not have those, the nest doorbell does.

2.Just like any other electronic device, you have to give outside sources permission to do this. The only stories you can find about this involve people agreeing to energy saving programs that they didn't actually read up on.

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Front_Recognition_8 t1_iyar5dk wrote

Is that what happened in tx during the heat wave? I heard they set the thermostat for the ac to 85 to save power.

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dramaticlobsters t1_iyardck wrote

Yes, you can read the article, they were opted into an energy saving program and weren't aware that was part of it.

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gravytrain2112 t1_iya0a60 wrote

You say this, but you probably have an iPhone, a computer, smart tv, etc….

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huh_phd t1_iya1zdy wrote

No iPhone. My desktop runs either Ubuntu or talOS on a flash drive, and no smart TV.

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User0098237490 t1_iy9p3nd wrote

Their website sucks ass. I tried getting an ecobee from it and it wouldn’t let me get it, even with all the proper information.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9q367 wrote

I agree, it is poorly designed and hard to get checked out.

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TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9xn9k wrote

I have a pellet wood supplemented with oil and looking to go off as much grid as I can

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b4ngl4d3sh t1_iyazrvk wrote

Honestly, the less Google is in my home, the better.

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TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iyazxcm wrote

I'm not home often enough to care as long as I come in to it being 80 degrees inside

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b4ngl4d3sh t1_iyb06a6 wrote

I'm barely home myself. It just feels vaguely dystopian, the amount of control we're collectively giving to Google, apple, AZN, etc.

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TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iyb1d1i wrote

The fact that we clone things is Dystopian as well. Google has it's fingers in too much. That's true. However I try to scale it too. Out of all the dystopian shit in this world where does Google rank. They monitor and follow you sure, track your location cookies etc, and unfortunately that's inevitable. It's going to happen. Do they censor things yes. But buying their products is a choice. Our own government and others do far worse in the name of security and safety, which includes everything that google does as it does it with their help, and many many other sick and twisted things. So. Do I like it. No. Am I bothered by it. Like I said in many other posts, minor yes, do I like the ability to not waste heat but also have it set to the temp I need it coming home. That I say is a plus. I live alone, no kids, no wife or family out here .. it helps.

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shwa539 t1_iya4o7w wrote

Yes so they can throttle your heat remotely, no thanks

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55galBucketHunter t1_iyalec7 wrote

Not to sound like a Luddite but what are the advantages to this over the old round dial I have? I’m interested but is there a benefit or is it just cell phone connectivity

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b4ngl4d3sh t1_iyazo50 wrote

Just another way to let Google further into your home and habits. I'll stay manual, thanks.

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55galBucketHunter t1_iyb18d6 wrote

Yeah it doesn’t seem like it does anything you can’t do manually with some diligence.

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MavDrake OP t1_iyalkjy wrote

It learns your heating and cooling habits... it can save your money.

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55galBucketHunter t1_iyamggx wrote

How?

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MavDrake OP t1_iyanltd wrote

The main way smart thermostats save electricity is by reducing your heating and cooling automatically when it's not needed. The device determines the need by predicting when people are home and away.

Smart thermostats like the ecobee smart thermostat can reduce energy bills by up to 23%.

My pops has a nest and he says it definitely works.

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mantisMD97 t1_iye972q wrote

Not into having a thermostat that listens to me speak, and if it’s paying attention to when I’m home or not home I definitely don’t want it.

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Liquor-Lady176 t1_iyaymww wrote

I don't live RI , But I wonder if this will be like Texas and another state I can't remember right now . You get the smart thermostat ,sign a contract that gives them the right to regulate your heat or A/C . I would be very leary of this myself .

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MavDrake OP t1_iyazeg0 wrote

Those people did not read thier contracts... they opted into the energy conservation program without reading their agreement..

They are dumbasses for complaining.

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rocketmonkeys t1_iyc5ko2 wrote

Ri has a similar program. It's optional/opt in, same thing.

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port547 t1_iy9udpw wrote

I used the rebate and bought an ecobee with voice control since it’s compatible with HomeKit. Bought a c wire on Amazon that plugs right into the wall outlet - pretty good rebate program, I’m happy with the ecobee so far.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9w72s wrote

I was looking at it as well but wasn't.

How long have you had it?

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port547 t1_iy9yy5k wrote

Haha, I bought it in September and bought some additional sensors in October.

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rendrag099 t1_iyasiuu wrote

>Bought a c wire on Amazon that plugs right into the wall outlet

I didn't even know this was a thing. Did you run it through the wall and punch a hole by the outlet or did you run the wire on the outside?

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TypicalpoorAmerican t1_iya7ys3 wrote

Look into “How your power company can remotely control your smart thermostat” before you buy this

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j0nny5iv3 t1_iyapbbe wrote

You would have to be subscribed to their rebate programs…

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MavDrake OP t1_iya8627 wrote

*turns off wifi function

There... all better....

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eldetepro t1_iyb7scp wrote

Check for that common wire

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MavDrake OP t1_iybbr8t wrote

Northeast problems

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Tonydildos t1_iycgwxf wrote

Are you saying north east problems because houses are older and likely not to have a c wire?

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MavDrake OP t1_iycgzij wrote

Yes, and to be fair is more of an east coast issue.

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Emotional-Simple-478 t1_iycswaf wrote

I don't have one and I was still able to install these thermostats

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eldetepro t1_iyct1nq wrote

I believe that will run the risk of your battery dying and your heat turning off

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Emotional-Simple-478 t1_iyct6lx wrote

I've had my nest thermostats for 5+ years and never had an issue. It was a pain in the ass having to call for help to do the work around, but they've been working for years and the heat has never shut off.

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eldetepro t1_iyd789s wrote

Running on batteries? How is it powered ?

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Emotional-Simple-478 t1_iyd7o17 wrote

I have no idea. I'm not into all that technical stuff. I remember buying them ready to wire them myself and got stuck at the C wire I just didn't have. There was a work around someone was able to figure out.

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TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9oo24 wrote

Google in control of my heat... No thanks. I'll keep my privacy thanks

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9sq77 wrote

Beware of those 5G waves too /s

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TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9ty7x wrote

Lol have o problem with the G's, G men within reason, the privacy thing is a low issue. I don't like not being in control but whatever. My phone freezes at least once a day. I don't need that in a thermostat. I'm also heat sensitive. I can't do too cold so any temp restrictions on top heat is bad, and frankly I grew up with a wood burning stove. A set on top thermostat is ok by me. I'm not hesitant to change I just want it to actually work.

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9uffj wrote

My pops has had his nest for 3 years or so... 0 issues and he loves it. He says it's saved him money and great for when he's traveling.

Granted he's got his home smart teched out. From solar pannels with battery backup to a smart garage door opener.

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TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9wtxp wrote

I'd only have that and one of those door bell cam things no panels yet

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MavDrake OP t1_iy9xaqd wrote

The panels are great.. he's paid them off and free sailing now. No bills year round and he even runs his hot tub year round.

He does use oil for heat but that's his next thing to tackle.

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Jack__Squat t1_iy9ubq3 wrote

I've never seen an article or study that this is actually happening. I've seen plenty that say it's possible. Or that we may get some opt-in feature for a cost savings, but I've never read that it's being done by force. I've had 2 smart thermostats for almost 10 years, not once has my heat gone down without me changing it. Why would they even want to. Assuming a grand conspiracy is in place the oil barons pulling the strings would want me to burn more oil or use more juice so they can bill me.

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TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9vr7g wrote

No no conspiracy. I'm not that type. Nuts sure not tin foil though. I'm more talking about ok I set it low when I leave. It freezes and locks up. I come home it isn't warm and I am now stuck. I don't think they would turn it down on me

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Sinking_The_Sea t1_iyacloy wrote

Yeah it’s all fun and games till the power company starts fucking with your thermostat. Check the fine print. I would be very surprised if they didn’t reserve this right

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MavDrake OP t1_iyacux3 wrote

If that ever happened all you need to do... is turn off the nests wifi...

*mind blows up

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Sinking_The_Sea t1_iycpjyr wrote

Hey if you’re fine with that, that’s your decision to make. Im uncomfortable with giving the utility any more control than the bare necessity. To each his own

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no_step t1_iycw5xi wrote

Or block telemetry/remote access with your firewall

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LEENIEBEENIE93 t1_iyb50r8 wrote

I just wanted to thank you! Just grabbed 2! Super deal!

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Dunder72 t1_iya3n2f wrote

What's the thermostat that you get for cheap but then the electric company can control yr temp on high usage days?

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woobnut t1_iyakdzf wrote

Go with ecobee instead. Google bad!

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Status_Silver_5114 t1_iyanwlz wrote

This one isn’t the “learning” one - that’s 100 on sale - so if you are looking for those features THIS IS NOT THAT ONE.

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MavDrake OP t1_iyap1ez wrote

Features Control From Anywhere You can change the temperature, adjust your schedule and more from the free Google Home app.²

Eco Temperatures The Nest Thermostat can use internal sensors and your phone's location to check if you've left the house. Then it can set itself to an Eco Temperature to save energy.

HVAC Monitoring HVAC monitoring looks out for many heating and cooling system issues. If something doesn’t seem right, your thermostat can send you an alert.³ If you need to replace your air filter, you’ll get a reminder. And you can book a visit with a Nest Pro right from the alert.

Quick Schedule The Nest Thermostat comes with Quick Schedule. When you set up your new thermostat, you can easily customize your schedule. And you can always adjust it from the Google Home app.

Easy to Install Installation usually takes 30 minutes or less. Just follow the simple step-by-step instructions in the Google Home app. For most homes, there’s no C-wire required, which makes installation even easier.⁴

Easy to Use Just swipe the touch bar on the side of the Nest Thermostat to change the temperature, and tap for settings.

Voice Control Just say, “Hey Google, turn up the heat.” The Nest Thermostat works with Hey Google on your phone, Nest speakers and displays. It also works with Alexa on other smart devices.

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Status_Silver_5114 t1_iyaw4hh wrote

And? Look it up. It’s not the full featured nest. That’s discounted to 100 on the same site. Quoting text back doesn’t make it so. https://store.google.com/us/magazine/compare_thermostats?hl=en-US

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MavDrake OP t1_iyawb7m wrote

And? I listed the features for the one I posted...

Did I say it was the other?

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Status_Silver_5114 t1_iyawne3 wrote

No my point is that several people have already posted this on this r/ thinking it was the other one so I’m making it clear it’s not what one might think. Even the RIE websiite doesn’t spell it out. But if you need the last word, go for it.

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MavDrake OP t1_iyaxjs5 wrote

That's literally from the RIE website.... for this model...

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Status_Silver_5114 t1_iyb36rw wrote

most people don’t realize there are more than one model of the nest and this is basically Nest Lite. Ergo folks may be buying this thinking it has features it does not have. So pointing that out because the RIE email and Link doesn’t do that. And all of this has already been covered in this r/ last week. So adding context for your post.

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Vanitas_Daemon t1_iyb0iui wrote

Why not just...make a thermostat with an Arduino?

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captain_fred t1_iycstl9 wrote

So if I don't buy it, and the one I have works fine, I save the money. The heat is pretty much turned off anyway. My choice was heat, loose my house or loose my car. I am trying to save the car because at least I can live in that.

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Substantial_Eye_575 t1_iydx4ks wrote

Make sure your house is wired for it first. If you have and old house like I do you’ll have to rewire. FYI.

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A-12-Archangel t1_iy9o2pv wrote

Dam government hacking my thermostat, no thank you.

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zjanderson t1_iy9rpo8 wrote

I have three of these. The government does not do this.

0