This review is for the Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th generation model. It’s the most advanced Nest thermostat made yet. It’s highly regarded and known for a beautiful, elegant design and all it’s smart features, making it easy to use.
This thermostat has an improved compatibility and will work with most 24 Volt systems, including heat pump, forced air, radiant, electric, oil, and gas. In most homes no C-wire is required.
Key Features
• Sleek Design
This thermostat has a modern, attractive design, and will be the focal point in whatever room it’s in. This model has a 60% larger display. It automatically adjusts brightness for the best readability, or you can adjust it manually.
It features something called Dynamic Farsight, which adjusts the displayed information based on your distance from the thermostat. This allows you to easily see the time, temperature, weather, or other relevant information at a glance.
• Smart Learning
It will learn user preferences, adjust the temperature automatically, and create personalized schedules for you.
• It’s Energy Efficient
You’ll save energy because this thermostat will learn when you’re away from home. It then uses an “Adaptive Eco” mode to help find an energy-saving temperature when you’re away and returns to a comfortable temperature within an hour of your return.
It has natural heating and cooling, which means it learns how the temperature outside affects the temperature inside. For example, when the sun comes through your windows and heats your house, it pauses your system to help you save money.
• Remote Control
Users can control the thermostat from anywhere using the Google Home app. By using your voice with Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant smart speaker, it’s easy to install yourself and it’s Matter-compatible for simple integration into your smart home.
You also control the thermostat through the Google Home app or Matter-compatible smart home apps. Voice control is also available through Google Assistant or other compatible voice assistants.
• Temperature Sensors
Optional temperature sensors can be added to provide a more accurate whole-home temperature reading, addressing potential hot or cold spots.
• Integration with Google Devices
It integrates seamlessly with other Google devices and is also Matter-certified, allowing it to connect with other smart home platforms.
• Reports
This thermostat provides monthly energy usage reports and energy-saving tips.
• Step-By-Step Installation
Google designed the Nest Learning Thermostat for DIY installation, with step-by-step instructions available in the Google Home app. It often doesn’t require a C-wire for installation in most homes, making it compatible with more systems.
• System Health Monitor
The thermostat can monitor your HVAC system for potential issues and send you alerts if something needs attention.
Are there any disadvantages?
The Nest Learning Thermostat is typically more expensive than other smart thermostats.
You need the Google Home app for control and setup.
There is a learning period. It can take some time for the thermostat to learn user preferences and create a personalized schedule for you.
What about the C-Wire issue?
A C-wire, or common wire, provides a continuous 24V power supply to a thermostat, and is especially important for smart thermostats. It ensures the thermostat has enough power for features like Wi-Fi and color displays, unlike older models that might rely on batteries.
Unlike older thermostats that might get power only when the heating or cooling system is running, a C-wire provides a continuous power supply, even when the system is off.
Smart thermostats, with their power-hungry features, often require a C-wire to operate consistently and reliably.
A C-wire is typically blue or black, but it’s best to consult the wiring diagram for your specific thermostat or heating/cooling system. You can also check the terminals behind your thermostat to see if a C-wire is already connected.
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th generation) is designed to work in most HVAC systems without a C-wire, but some systems may require one or a Nest Power Connector for consistent power. The thermostat utilizes Power Sharing technology to draw power from the existing heating and cooling wires, making a C-wire unnecessary in many cases.
However, certain systems like heating-only, cooling-only, zone-controlled, and some heat pump systems may need a C-wire or the Nest Power Connector for proper functionality.
In rare cases (less than 1% of systems), a C-wire or a Nest Power Connector may be necessary to ensure consistent power supply, especially in certain HVAC configurations or if the system’s power output is insufficient.
Systems with micro-controller-based systems or certain gas valves might require a C-wire.
The Google Home app will often indicate during setup if a C-wire connection is recommended or necessary.
If you’re unsure about compatibility or have questions, it’s always best to consult a professional HVAC technician.
A Nest Power Connector can be found here.
What do customers like most about this Thermostat?
A lot of customers say it looks great on the wall, and you don’t need a separate wall plate to mount it.
People like the online installation guide.
Customers say the installation is easy.
Many customers say it’s great to be able to change the temperature remotely from your phone. You can change it from anywhere, which is great when traveling.
People say that once you install the thermostat and do a basic setup, it will start adjusting the temperatures at different times of the day automatically.
Customers say once the thermostat learns your schedule and starts adjusting automatically, you barely have to touch the settings anymore.
Many users say this thermostat noticeably reduces their energy consumption.
Is this worth buying?
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is a premium quality smart thermostat that offers a blend of convenience, energy efficiency, and modern design.
The price may be considered somewhat high, but its smart features and potential for energy savings make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to upgrade their home climate control system.
The combination of learning technology and temperature sensors ensures your home stays cozy in the right places at the right times. If you want to upgrade to a smart thermostat that blends high-tech, energy efficiency, and comfort, this thermostat is highly recommended.
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