If you are wondering how to install the Google Nest thermostat, having just got the appliance, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will walk you through how to properly install the Google Nest thermostat yourself without needing to spend extra on the services of an electrician.
Without further ado, let us dive right in.
Meet the Google Nest Thermostat
The Google Nest Thermostat is one of the trending smart thermostats produced by Google that you can install in your home. There are two models of Google’s thermostat available to purchase: the Nest Thermostat and the Nest Learning Thermostat.
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat vs the Google Nest Thermostat
Nest Learning Thermostat
The Nest Learning Thermostat is a third-generation appliance that features a metal ring and a high-res display. Its classic turn dial design lets you navigate among the settings and you can press down on the thermostat to make a selection.
The Learning Thermostat is available in seven different color finishes: stainless steel, mirror black, brass, polished steel, white, black, and copper. It comes with a trim kit if you need to cover up old holes or paint.
Its high-res display offers a feature called Farsight that displays the weather, time, or temperature when it senses your presence. This model also has a learning algorithm that’s designed to adapt to your schedule over time and automatically make adjustments on your behalf. It also uses a proximity sensor to determine your home or away status.
You can set up this model using the Nest app and control it in the Google Home app.
Nest Thermostat
The Nest Thermostat has the same rounded shape as the Learning Thermostat — and both work with compatible smart speakers and displays (sold separately).
That’s where their similarities end.
For the Nest Thermostat, Google did away with the turn dial. Instead, it has a touch control strip on the right side for adjusting the temperature and making other changes to your settings. The controls are responsive and intuitive, and an overall improvement over the previous turn dial approach.
This model is made of plastic and features a mirrored finish, as well as different color options than the Learning Thermostat. It is available in snow (white), sand (rose gold), fog (light greenish/blueish-gray), and charcoal (dark gray). However, it also does not have the high-res display and “Farsight” feature offered with the Learning Thermostat.
The Nest Thermostat is the first of the company’s thermostats that do not work with the Nest app. Instead, this model can only be set up and controlled in the Google Home app.
It also will not learn your schedule over time and adjust accordingly. It lets you enter a schedule and will automatically switch between home and away modes based on the thermostat’s built-in proximity sensor.
Another difference between the two is that, while the Nest Thermostat is compatible with 85% of systems, the Nest Learning Thermostat is said to be compatible with 95% of systems. Google claims that some systems like heating-only, cooling-only, zone-controlled, or heat pump systems require either a C wire or Nest Power Connector.
Features of the Google Nest Thermostat
The Google Nest Thermostat can turn itself down to save energy when you leave the house. And whether you are simply on an errand or on vacation, you can control it from anywhere with a network connection with the Google Home app. You can even change the temperature without getting off the couch or out of bed.
All you need to say is, “Hey Google, turn up the heat” or “Hey Google, turn down the temperature” and it responds to your command.
The Nest Thermostat helps you save energy. It can turn itself down when you leave the house, so you don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty home. Right from the start, it helps you create an energy-efficient schedule. It also looks for ways to help you save even more with Savings Finder.
Whether you are looking for an easier way to control the temperature in your home, or you want to save energy (and potentially money), the Google Nest Thermostat can help you achieve this.
The Nest Thermostat also looks out for your heating or cooling system. If something doesn’t seem right, it can send an alert. And it’s easy to install yourself, usually in 30 minutes or less.
However, before you buy this thermostat, take a look at Google’s Compatibility Checker to see if this model is compatible with your current thermostat wiring.
Which Google Nest Thermostat should you get?
There’s no wrong answer here, as both thermostats are excellent. This choice is entirely based on your specific needs.
If you are looking for a more substantial, premium design, you will want to go for the Learning Thermostat. It comes with a trim kit, has more color finish options, and offers some advanced features, such as the learning algorithm and the Farsight feature. It is also compatible with the optional Nest Temperature Sensor accessory.
The Nest Thermostat is considerably less expensive than the Learning Thermostat. It offers an updated mirrored design in four color finishes and a refreshed side control thermostat interface. However, it does not include a trim kit and the thermostat isn’t compatible with the Nest Temperature Sensor. It also doesn’t have the same learning algorithm or Farsight.
But for over $100 less than the Learning Thermostat, the new Nest Thermostat is an excellent option that holds its own against Google’s flagship thermostat.
How To Install Google Nest Thermostat
For some, installing a smart device might seem like a complicated and intimidating prospect. After all, what if you make a mistake during the wiring? However, manufacturers like Nest have made installing a smart thermostat so easy that anyone can do it — even if you have zero experience with any kind of wiring.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Decide on the Smart for you
As mentioned above, there are two kinds of Google Nest, and you have to decide on the one that is compatible with you. This is based both on your preference and whichever is compatible with your thermostat wiring.
Look for a C-wire
In some cases, you will need what is called a C-wire to properly power your thermostat. A C-wire is just one of the wires that run from your furnace to the thermostat. If you peek behind the cover, you’ll be able to see if you have it or not.
If you have an older furnace system without a C-wire, it will likely work with a Nest Learning Thermostat, but not so much with the new 2020 Nest Thermostat. While Nest Thermostats are easy to install yourself, you can also have an HVAC technician help you out. With compatibility assured, you’re ready to install your Nest Thermostat.
Install your Nest thermostat
- Download the Google Home app and create an account, or log in if you already have one.
- Click the plus sign on the top right of the app home page and select “Set up device,” then “New devices.”
- Select an existing home you’ve already created in the app or create a new one.
- Choose “Thermostat” from the list of device categories, then “Nest Thermostat.”
- Scan the QR code on your thermostat. Alternatively, you can input the six-digit code on the inside of the thermostat.
After completing the cursory app setup, you need to remove your old thermostat:
- Turn off power to your thermostat and your heating and cooling system (consult a professional technician if you have any questions).
- Remove the old thermostat, starting with the faceplate.
- Now that the faceplate is gone, you should be able to see the thermostat wiring. Grab your phone and get a picture of the wiring for future reference.
- Disconnect the wires from the thermostat’s baseplate, then unscrew and remove the baseplate. Set aside your old thermostat.
Now, it is time to install the Nest Thermostat:
- Mark where you need to install the screws, using the Nest Thermostat’s baseplate as a guide. If the holes from the old thermostat don’t line up with the new one, you’ll need to make new ones.
- Use a screwdriver to connect the baseplate to the wall with the included hardware.
- Reattach the wires. Note: The Nest Thermostat does not require a C-wire. Again, reach out to a professional installer if you have any questions about your specific wiring and thermostat setup.
- Line up the faceplate with the baseplate and click it into place.
- Switch the power back on to your thermostat.
How to install a Nest Thermostat without a C-wire
Traditionally, the C-wire is an essential part of connecting any kind of newer thermostat. However, depending on the wiring of your home, your HVAC system may not actually have a C-wire at all.
But not to worry if you don’t have one. Google makes a C-wire adapter that you can purchase to get your new Nest connected without having to figure in the expense of having a professional install a brand-new C-wire.
Once you have bought a C-wire adapter, follow the next several steps to get it wired into your home’s HVAC system, and finally into your Nest thermostat.
- As covered in the previous section, the first thing you’ll want to do is cut power to the HVAC system. Then, go ahead and remove the faceplate of your Nest Thermostat to expose the wiring terminals underneath.
- Connect the C-wire adapter to your furnace air handler or zone controller. The adapter kit comes with easy-to-follow instructions on how to do so.
- Once the adapter is in place, connect the remaining leads to the proper terminals and put the faceplate back on your thermostat.
- Turn the power back on to your HVAC system. Now your Nest Thermostat should boot up without an issue.
Keep in mind that the C-wire adapter only works with 24 VAC systems and is only compatible with third-generation Nest Thermostat products.
Final steps on installing the Google Nest Thermostat
Your thermostat might be installed, but you are not quite done yet. Now the Google Home app will ask you a series of questions; this includes your preferred language, the type of system you have, and more.
You can also customize your settings here, from creating heating and cooling schedules to enabling Home/Away Assist. The latter is an option that uses built-in sensors to determine if you’re home or not and adjusts the temperature for you accordingly.
Now you’re ready to use your Nest Thermostat.
Nest Thermostat compatibility
Google Nest thermostats are designed to work with most 24 V systems, even older systems. They work with all common fuel types including natural gas, oil, and electricity.
During setup, the Google Home or Nest app will instruct you through steps to tell you if your system is compatible with your Nest thermostat before installation. The app will also give you a custom wiring guide for your thermostat.
You can also check your system’s compatibility before purchasing a Nest thermostat with the online Nest Compatibility Checker. Some systems may require a common wire (C wire) or the Nest Power Connector. Go to g.co/nest/cwire for details.
To check for compatibility, you only need to know the type of heating system. The specific brand or model doesn’t matter. If you don’t know what type of system you have, check your manufacturer’s website or contact them.
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