ADT Disclaimer

ADT $27.99 Essential package: $99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($1,007.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($671.76) for California. Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. The $27.99 Offer does not include the 6-month guarantee or the Quality Service Plan (QSP). Quality Service Plan (QSP) is ADT’s Extended Limited Warranty. Landline monitoring only.

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How Nest Can Turn Your House into a Smart Home

Last Updated: A day ago

Google is transitioning from “Works with Nest” integration to “Works with Hey Google,” so some smart home gadgets are dropping the “Works with Nest” compatibility.

Philips Hue is one of the first to go, pulling the virtual plug on Nov. 17. We recommend checking in on your smart gadgets that currently work with Nest to prepare if you temporarily lose integration during this transition.

If you’ve heard of home automation, you’ve probably also heard of Nest. Nest is one of the pioneers in the smart home revolution. Its mission is “creating the thoughtful home: a home that takes care of the people inside it and the world around it.”¹

In order to fulfill that mission, Nest created a line of home safety, security, and energy solutions. According to the company, its products—like the Nest Learning Thermostat, Nest Cams, and Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide alarm—are used in millions of homes in more than 190 countries.²

Get to know Nest products

Nest products use intuitive, innovative technology to improve home safety and energy efficiency. Nest smart home devices are known for their simple, beautiful designs and cutting-edge features that solve common problems in unexpected ways. Here’s a look at how Nest products can help turn a regular house into a smart home.

Nest Learning Thermostat

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd gen)

View on Amazon

The Nest Learning Thermostat hit the market in 2011, changing home climate control and energy efficiency. Conscientious homeowners no longer need to figure out how to program a complicated thermostat or remember to turn down the heat before heading out the door. The Nest Learning Thermostat is a smart home device that learns your patterns and temperature preferences. It adjusts when a room—or home—is empty, and according to time and weather. You can also control it remotely via a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

Nest Thermostat pros

Since its release, the Nest Learning Thermostat has helped users save nearly eight billion kWh of energy. In addition to lower utility bills, users love the ease of installation and the convenience of controlling everything from an app.

Another favorite feature is the attractive design. The thermostat comes in a variety of finishes like copper, stainless steel, black, and white, to complement nearly any home decor. For homeowners who want more design options, accessories like Wasserstein’s Stainless Steel Wall Plate Cover add extra style.

Nest Thermostat cons

Even though Amazon shows a 4.6-star rating for the Nest Learning Thermostat, there are a few things users complain about. The Farsight feature, which prompts the thermostat to light up and display the current temperature and local weather whenever someone enters a room, was criticized a lot at first. Customers didn’t like that it displayed only the set temperature and not the actual room temperature. To its credit, Nest paid attention to customer feedback and enhanced this feature.

Price can be another point of contention. At around $250, the Nest Learning Thermostat is one of the more expensive thermostats. However, more than 10,000 Amazon reviews indicate that customers are largely satisfied with the results, and many say that this thermostat more than pays for itself in energy savings.

Nest Cameras: Indoor and Outdoor

Google Nest Indoor Wired Security Camera

View on Amazon

When it comes to home security, few things make you feel more secure than actually seeing what’s going on at home. The Nest Cam provides this comfort, plus the convenience of home automation features that help stop criminals in their tracks. Nest offers both the Indoor Cam and Outdoor Cam, so you can keep an eye on everything, everywhere. You can check in on kids and pets, and even interact with them no matter where you are. A built-in speaker and microphone let you hear and see so you can tell Fido to get down if he is on the couch.

Google Nest Outdoor Wired Security Camera

View on Amazon

Nest Cam pros

Customers love the easy installation, crystal-clear picture, and 24/7 recording and backup provided with a Nest Aware subscription. Many people use the Nest Cam as a baby monitor because they like the interactive features and the real-time alerts that send notifications any time their tiny tot moves. Additionally, the non-stop recording action has helped pet owners identify which pet has accidents, and both the indoor and outdoor cameras have caught burglars in the act.

People also love the sleek design and the ease with which they can conceal the Nest Cam. In fact, there are a number of products, like the SummitLink Camouflage Sunflower—made to help users hide their Nest Cams. Another perk of the Nest Cam is its compatibility with so many other smart home devices: in addition to working with other Nest products, this camera works with more home automation products than most others on the market.

Nest Cam cons

The only consistent complaint about the Nest Cam is the required Nest Aware subscription. Users who want recorded playback and Cloud video storage must pay $10–$30 per month for the subscription. Without it, the Nest Cam offers 24/7 live video streaming, but it doesn’t allow for playback and review beyond the most recent three hours.

Many Amazon reviewers also note a banner ad and other high-pressure tactics to encourage signing up for the subscription. For users who hoped their $200 investment would be all they needed to spend for smart video surveillance, the Nest Aware subscription is a sore spot.

Nest Protect Smoke + CO Alarm

Google Nest Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector

View on Amazon

Nest Protect is where home automation meets home safety. This smart home device can tell you exactly what’s wrong—smoke or carbon monoxide—so you no longer have to guess why the alarm is going off. It also lets you know where the danger is, automatically tests itself, and can last for up to ten years. Best of all, you can silence the alarm with just a swipe on your smartphone.

Nest Protect pros

Overall, Nest Protect has a 4.7-star rating on Amazon, and users rave about everything from the companion Nest App to the installation process. Like all Nest products, the alarm is easy to install. One Amazon reviewer reported installing eight Nest Protect alarms in just ninety minutes. People also love that the app allows homeowners to remotely check in and sends instant alerts to the whole family whenever it detects anything dangerous.

Nest Protect cons

There may be only about 200 critical reviews out of over 4,000, but some Amazon reviewers found glitches with the silencing feature. More than one customer reported an inability to silence the Nest Protect if it detects too much smoke. Others disliked that changing their home Wi-Fi network required manually updating every alarm in their home. A few users also reported some device failures after three or four years.

Nest Protect also costs more than the average smoke or carbon monoxide detector, starting at about $100. While many find the convenience and smart device features worth the money, those who experienced issues were frustrated with the price.

How Nest Products can turn your house into a smart home

One of the most progressive things about the Nest family of products is their interconnectivity. All Nest products work with each other and a number of other smart home devices. With the right combination of smart home devices, you could wake up each morning to gentle lighting, the perfect temperature, and the smell of fresh-brewed coffee.

Nest products can work with smart locks, smart lightbulbs, and other smart devices and appliances. Nest has become such a leader in the home automation market that several smart home devices are sold with a special logo that lets consumers know they’re compatible with Nest. This logo program is called Works with Nest and is the cheat sheet you need to turn your Nest Thermostat or Nest Cam into an entire home automation network.

If you’re ready to save money, increase your home’s safety, and get your smart home started, Nest is a great place to begin. Which Nest product are you most excited to try out?

Related Pages on SafeWise

• How to Install Nest Cameras Indoors and Outdoors 
• Best Home Security Systems of 2020
• Nest Thermostat Review

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1. Nest, Nest Is Home
2. Nest, Leading Connected Home Brand Nest Expands to Germany, Austria, Italy, and Spain

The post How Nest Can Turn Your House into a Smart Home appeared first on SafeWise.

6 Smart Home Automation Devices to Get You Through the Toddler Years

Last Updated: A day ago

Google is transitioning from “Works with Nest” integration to “Works with Hey Google,” so some smart home gadgets are dropping the “Works with Nest” compatibility.

Philips Hue is one of the first to go, pulling the virtual plug on Nov. 17. We recommend checking in on your smart gadgets that currently work with Nest to prepare if you temporarily lose integration during this transition.

Raising a toddler is a wonderful experience that most parents look back on fondly. But when you’re in the trenches of the “terrible twos,” you might feel overwhelmed. Use these home automation gadgets to help lower your stress level, save time, and create a safer environment for your growing toddler.

Here are five SafeWise-recommended home automation products to help you happily survive the toddler years. 

1. Amazon Echo

Buy on Amazon

The Amazon Echo is a Bluetooth speaker that also uses Wi-Fi. Alexa, Amazon’s helpful voice assistant, communicates with you through the Echo. Alexa interacts with you when you give her voice commands, allowing for hands-free control of your Echo-compatible smart home devices. Alexa can also play music, answer questions, and perform thousands of tasks—like ordering pizza on family movie night.

Works With: Echo works with Fire Tablets, iOS, and Android devices, and it’s managed through the Alexa app.

How It Helps: With the Echo, you can benefit from a number of parenting hacks. For starters, you can tell Alexa to set a timer that reminds your potty-training toddler to visit the bathroom, or have Alexa tell them a personalized story while you clean up after dinner. As bedtime approaches, you can tell Alexa to turn off the TV and stream calming music.

2. August Smart Lock

Buy on Amazon

The August Smart Lock makes digging for your keys a thing of the past. It installs over your door’s deadbolt and is controlled through the August Home app. With August, you can create virtual keys to give guests like the babysitter temporary access to your home, and you can monitor when they come and go. You can also set the device to unlock your door as you approach and automatically lock once you’re inside.

Works With: August Smart Lock works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Nest, and other popular home automation products.

How It Helps: Keeping your doors locked is always important, but it becomes a top priority once your little one starts to walk. A smart lock can help increase the security of your home, especially when paired with a monitored home security system. Plus, the August Smart Lock makes life more convenient and less stressful: if you’ve ever tried to unlock the door carrying bags of groceries and a feisty toddler, you know what we mean.

3. Philips Hue Starter Kit

Buy on Amazon

Philips Hue smartbulbs put a twenty-first century twist on Edison’s brilliant invention. Swap out your traditional lightbulbs for Hue bulbs, then use the Hue app to wirelessly control and customize the color and intensity of the bulbs, set timers and alarms for individual bulbs, and recreate lighting environments you love. Pair Philips Hue with the Philips Hue Motion Sensor, and lights will turn on as soon as you enter the room and off after you leave.

Works With: Philips Hue works with Android and iOS platforms. It’s compatible with If This Then That (IFTTT) technology and integrates with several smart devices we love, including Beddi Smart Alarm Clock and Nest Learning Thermostat.

How It Helps: Create a calm atmosphere with Hue’s preset, relaxing color profile to help your rambunctious toddler settle down for a nap, then set the Philips Hue to gradually turn on their bedroom light when it’s time to wake up. Install Philips Motion Sensors in rooms your kiddo frequents so you never worry about them entering a dark area and getting hurt or scared. Who knew a lightbulb could help make parenting easier?

4. Foobot Indoor Air Quality Monitor

Buy on Amazon

According to the EPA, the air inside our homes can be more polluted than outside air, even in big cities.¹ Foobot is an indoor air quality monitor that identifies your home’s pollutants in real time and gives you actionable tips to help remove or reduce them. With the Foobot app, you can track pollutants over time to understand the sources of pollution in your home, like toxic cleaners, dust mites, and aerosols. Foobot uses IFTTT and works with a range of smart products—including ventilation systems and air purifiers—to automatically turn on these devices when pollution levels rise.

Works With: Foobot works with Android and iOS platforms.

How It Helps: Foobot can help you create a healthier home environment for your toddler, which can help them feel more comfortable and get a better night’s sleep—so you deal with less meltdowns. If your child has asthma or allergies, cleaner air might help reduce their symptoms. The EPA advises that young people are particularly susceptible to the effects of indoor air pollution.² This is one reason SafeWise recommends that parents monitor their home’s air quality and use an air purifier to help reduce pollutants.

5. Nest Learning Thermostat, Third Generation

Buy on Amazon

Nest Learning Thermostat communicates over Wi-Fi so you can adjust the temperature in your home right from your phone using the Nest app. But that’s just the start of what this smart thermostat can do. After one week of using Nest as you would a traditional thermostat, it learns your temperature preferences and programs itself accordingly. Nest’s motion sensor determines when you’ve left the house, then triggers Nest to switch to Eco Temperature mode to save energy.

Works With: Dozens of smart products work with Nest, including Alexa. Nest is available for Android and iOS.

How It Helps: Nest monitors and manages the temperature of your home, meaning you have one less thing to worry about. That’s a big plus when you’re parenting a toddler. According to Nest, it can also help you save money by reducing your energy bills an average of 10%–15%,³ and what parent doesn’t want to save money? The third generation of Nest t also boasts a large display that illuminates when it detects motion—making it a built-in nightlight for wandering toddlers.

For added safety and convenience, consider pairing home automation with a home security system. Take a virtual tour of today’s affordable automated home, then find the best home security system for your needs.

Related Pages on SafeWise

• Best Nanny Cams of 2020
• What to Teach Your Children About Home Safety
• Best Baby Cribs of 2020

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1. United States Environmental Protection Agency, “The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality”
2. United States Environmental Protection Agency, “The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality”
3. Nest, “How the Nest Thermostat Savings Calculator Works”

The post 6 Smart Home Automation Devices to Get You Through the Toddler Years appeared first on SafeWise.

How to Connect Your Nest Products to Google Home

Last Updated: A day ago

Google is transitioning from “Works with Nest” integration to “Works with Hey Google,” so some smart home gadgets are dropping the “Works with Nest” compatibility.

Philips Hue is one of the first to go, pulling the virtual plug on Nov. 17. We recommend checking in on your smart gadgets that currently work with Nest to prepare if you temporarily lose integration during this transition.

Your Google Home can do a lot of impressive stuff. From helping you cook to telling you who won the 1945 World Series (it was the Detroit Tigers), the virtual assistant in your home makes life a little easier.  

Google Home can also connect with your Nest devices, making tasks easier with automation and scheduling. You can tell your Nest thermostat to turn off the heat when you leave for work or put your cameras on a schedule to watch your kids get off the bus. 

Partnering up your Nest and Google devices can turn your home into a smart ecosystem customized to your needs. It takes only a few steps—we’ll show you how. 

How to Connect Nest Products with a Google Assistant: 

• 1. Set Up and Install Nest Products
• 2. Open Google Home App
• 3. Add the Device in the App
• 4. Test the Connection
• 5. Watch the Video
• Frequently Asked Questions

1. Set Up and Install Your Nest Products

Nest products like the Nest Thermostat and the Nest Hello Doorbell are surprisingly easy to pair with your Google Home smart home devices. 

Nest Hello Doorbell Camera

• Facial recognition
• Clear picture night and day
• Starting price at $229

View on Home Depot

All of Nest’s products connect to your Google Home the same way, but you have to install the hardware first. 

Here’s what you need to get started: 

• Google Home Assistant smart speaker
• Google Home app installed on a smart device
• Nest product (Nest Hello, Nest Thermostat, Nest Secure, Nest Protect, etc.)
• Nest app installed on a smart device

Nest products like the Nest Hello Video Doorbell, Nest Thermostat, or Nest Protect smoke detector may take more time to install than others. Follow the instructions that came with your Nest products to get them up and running. The Nest app makes physical installation easy with step-by-step instructions and plenty of resources if you have questions.

Pro Tip:

Test your Nest product with the Nest app to make sure it’s working before connecting it to your Google Home.

2. Open the Google Home App

Google Home App

Download on Google Play

Once your Nest device is installed and active, you can connect it to Google Home through the Google Home app. Keep your Nest device powered on while connecting it to the Google Home app.

Start by opening your Google Home app. You’ll see all the existing devices connected to your Google Assistant (like our Chromecast screenshot shown below). 

Your Nest device will be visible once it’s connected.

From here, select the plus sign at the top left corner of the screen. This icon will allow you to add a device to your Google Home ecosystem.

Pro Tip:

If you sign into Nest using your Google account, your device should sync to your Google Home automatically.

From here, select “Set up device” at the top of the menu.

The setup screen will give you two options: “Set up new devices in your home” or “Works with Google.” Select the second option because you already have something set up—your Nest device!

3. Add a Nest Device in the App

The “Works with Google” option sends you to a screen where you can search for your Nest device. Use the search bar at the top of the screen to find the Nest icon. Or, you can scroll through the list of available apps until you find Nest (but this could take a while).

You’ll want to have your Nest account information handy to log into your account.

What if I don’t see my Nest in the Google App?

Visit the main menu in the Google Home App and select Home Controls. This will take you to a menu showing all the devices connected to your Google Home, organized by room.

Look for the Nest icon on this menu and select it. This menu will take you to a permissions page that will allow your Google Home to find your Nest product.

Accept the terms and assign the device to a room.

Adding this detail makes it easier for Google Home to control your Nest devices.

Once you find the Nest icon in the Google Home app menu, you’ll be taken to the Nest login page. Enter your Nest username and password (not your Google Home information) to find the device in your home.

When you log in, Nest will send you a verification code to confirm set up.

 After you enter the verification code, you’ll see a list of features you can control from the Google Home speaker. 

Select “Allow,” and the Nest device will connect with your Google Home. After, check to make sure your newly-connected device appears on the main screen of your Google Home app.

4. Test the Connection

We recommend testing your connection after you sync the devices. Try changing the temperature, arming your security system, activating your camera, or verifying whichever Nest product you’ve added. 

Try a few of these voice commands or a voice command related to your Nest product: 

“OK, Google, set the thermostat to 73.”
“OK, Google, show me the front door.”
“OK, Google, arm my system.” 

Once you’ve tested your new Nest product, you can control it through your voice and check in on it through the Google Home app. When your Nest is connected, play around with your system to tailor it to your needs.

5. Watch the Video

Subscribe to our Youtube channel for more videos like this one! Learn how to protect your home, your loved ones, yourself and your belongings.

FAQ

Is Google Home compatible with Nest?

Yes. Nest is a Google product and pairs easily with the Google Home app on Android or iOS devices like phones and tablets. 

How do I install and set up my Nest?

Each of the Nest products come with helpful installation steps. The actual installation will vary based on which Nest product you’re connecting, but everything you need is in the Nest app or comes in the box. 

Does this process work for all Nest products?

Yes. Whether you’re connecting a Nest Hello doorbell, Nest Protect smoke alarm, Nest Thermostat, or a Nest Secure system, you can use these same steps to add devices to your Google Home system.  

Can my Nest doorbell show footage on my Google Home Hub when I get a visitor?

Yes. You’ll need a Google Home Hub (the one with a screen), your Nest Hello doorbell, and the Nest account app. Confirm that your Nest Hello is connected by saying, “OK Google, show me the front door.” This should show the feed from your doorbell camera on your Hub screen. 

• Confirm that your devices have synched.
• Go into your Nest app and select the doorbell camera feed.
• Select the gear in the top right corner and select “Visitor Announcements” on the menu. 
• Choose that option and toggle the option on (the bar should slide to blue). 
• Test your doorbell and hub by ringing the doorbell and see if the doorbell footage appears.

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Related Pages on SafeWise 

• The Best Home Security Systems 
• Google Nest Hello Video Doorbell Review 
• Nest Protect Smoke Alarm
• Nest Cameras Review 
• Nest Thermostats review
• How Nest Can Turn Your Home into a Smart Home

The post How to Connect Your Nest Products to Google Home appeared first on SafeWise.

Nest Thermostat Review

Best Overall

Nest Learning Thermostat

Compare Prices

• Works with most 24V thermostats
• Sports a large, easy-to-read display

• Works with most 24V thermostats
• Sports a large, easy-to-read display

View on Home Depot

Compare Prices

Budget Pick

Nest Thermostat E

Compare Prices

• Has subtle frosted glass display
• Costs less for similar features

• Has subtle frosted glass display
• Costs less for similar features

View on Home Depot

Compare Prices

Last Updated: A day ago

Google is transitioning from “Works with Nest” integration to “Works with Hey Google,” so some smart home gadgets are dropping the “Works with Nest” compatibility.

Philips Hue is one of the first to go, pulling the virtual plug on Nov. 17. We recommend checking in on your smart gadgets that currently work with Nest to prepare if you temporarily lose integration during this transition.

The Bottom Line: Google Nest Thermostats Save Time, Energy, and Cash

Google’s Nest Thermostat changed the energy savings game when it debuted in 2011. Now in its third generation, it still makes heating and cooling in your house a breeze. The more you interact with the Nest Learning Thermostat or Nest Thermostat E, the faster it will learn what you like and adjust accordingly.

This learning thermostat is expensive initially but saves money and energy every month with features like auto-away and auto-schedule. At the end of the month, it generates an energy report highlighting how much you saved and how to improve your bill even more. Can your old thermostat do that?

Pros

• Learns your preferences the more you use it
• Delivers monthly energy reports
• Adjusts from your phone whether you’re home or away

Cons

• Steep initial price
• Installation is easy but takes a while
• Not compatible with every home

How We Reviewed the Google Nest Thermostat

We got our hands on a Nest Learning Thermostat, and we took notes on installation and standout features (good and bad). This isn’t the first smart thermostat we’ve reviewed, so we compared it to similar products to see if Nest really is best. We also checked other reviews and installation videos to see how this learning thermostat worked for others.

We combined everything we learned about the device, its competitors, and customer reviews to create this comprehensive guide to both versions of Google’s Nest Thermostat. Check out our methodology to learn more about how we conduct reviews on SafeWise.

Similarities and Differences 

The Nest Learning Thermostat and Nest Thermostat E have many of the same features, but you can save a little cash with your initial purchase with the latter. Just be sure to check your existing system. Depending on what you have, you may have to opt for the more expensive Google Nest Thermostat because it’s compatible with more HVAC systems. 

Prices

Auto-Away

Auto-Schedule

Monthly Energy Report

Ring Color Options

High-Res Display

Learn More

Nest Learning Thermostat	Nest Thermostat E
$249.99	$169.99
Yes ✓	Yes ✓
Yes ✓	Yes ✓
Yes ✓	Yes ✓
Yes ✓	No X
Yes ✓	No X
View on Home Depot	View on Home Depot

Info current as of 05/13/20. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

The two versions of the Nest Thermostat have the same software and capabilities—the differences are mostly cosmetic.

Similarities

You can control both thermostats manually, through the Nest app, or with your voice using Amazon Alexa or Google Home. They can both sense sunlight, activate fans after turning off the AC, and adjust remotely. 

And both Nest Thermostats have the same energy-saving features.

• Auto-away changes the temperature when you leave home.
• Auto-schedule learns your preferences and schedules accordingly.
• Monthly report shows how you used energy throughout the month.
• Nest leaf indicates energy-saving temperatures.

Differences

The Nest Learning Thermostat is larger, has more wire ports to boost compatibility, and comes in seven finishes to match your decor. 

Although the Nest E  comes only in white, its subtle frosted glass helps it blend in with home interiors. But it’s difficult to read the display from across the room. 

And because the Nest E is smaller, it can’t fit as many wire ports—making it compatible with only 85% of 24V systems. Depending on your existing system, you may have to opt for the 3rd generation Google Nest Thermostat for compatibility reasons. 

If readability and design are worth extra cash, the Nest Learning Thermostat is for you. On the other hand, the Nest Thermostat E has the same features for less but without the wow factor.

Equipment and Smart Features 

Both versions of Nest are loaded with onboard sensors that make them smarter than the average thermostat. The sensors read temperature, light, and motion to make adjustments based on your preferences and schedule. 

Both Google Nest Thermostats learn your routine and adjust according to your comfort preferences and energy conservation goals. 

If the thermostat senses lots of sunlight in your room, it saves energy by letting the natural light do the work. The thermostat’s internal clock adjusts the temperature based on morning and nightime temperatures too.

Auto-Away and Auto-Schedule 

Nest’s connection to your smartphone triggers an auto-away feature that adjusts the thermostat to the best temperature for conserving energy. Whether you’re on vacation or around the block, the auto-away feature adjusts the thermostat to save the most energy and money. 

The auto-schedule remembers when you regularly come and go and creates an estimated schedule for your home’s temperature. It takes about a week for the thermostat to learn your routine. 

Feeling impatient? You can adjust it manually in the Nest App at regular intervals for the first few days to program the schedule.

The Nest Leaf 

The iconic Nest leaf appears on the thermostat’s display when you choose an energy-saving temperature. Think of it like a goal temperature for the best conservation results. It may leave you a little chillier in winter or warmer in the summer.

Monthly Energy Report 

One of our favorite features the Nest Learning Thermostat and Nest Thermostat E offer is a monthly energy report. Nest sends an email full of information about energy usage, what’s using it, and how it compares to previous months. 

Because this smart thermostat actually learns, the report becomes sharper and more helpful each month.

Third-Party Compatibility

Both Google Nest Thermostats connect to smart hubs like Amazon Echo and Google Home. It takes only a few minutes to connect Nest to your Google Home. To connect Alexa, look up the Google Nest skill to sync your devices. Once connected, you can change the thermostat and set schedules with your voice. 

Nest Thermostats also connect to home security systems like Brinks and SimpliSafe. If you have other Nest devices like Nest cameras or the Nest Secure system, you can set automations that make your home smarter.

Farsight

The Nest Learning Thermostat features Farsight, a motion sensor that lights the display when you’re nearby. The wake screen is up to you too. Choose from a digital or analog clock, the current weather, or the home temperature.

Installing Nest

It takes only a screwdriver and some patience to install a Nest Thermostat. Before you buy, make sure your current thermostat is compatible with Nest’s wiring.

What’s in the Box

• Display 
• Base 
• Trim plate
• Screws
• Instructions
• Wire labels

Start by turning off your HVAC system, then remove the old thermostat. Label the wires with the included wire labels and place the base and faceplate on the wall. Both Nest models have a level to keep things straight. 

Now slide the wires into the labeled tabs of the base. Once they’re all fitted, screw the base and faceplate to the wall and snap on the display. 

From here it’s all digital. You’ll use the Nest Thermostat display to connect to Wi-Fi and the app. Then select language and temperature settings. If you want to connect to your Amazon Alexa or Google Home, that adds a little more time but saves stress later. 

Google Home: If you sign into Nest using your Google account, your Nest Thermostat should pair to Google Home automatically. Otherwise, it takes only a few steps to connect Nest to Google Home. 

Amazon Alexa: Alexa can learn a skill that connects to Nest products like the smart thermostat. Just download the skill from Amazon and you’re good to go! 

How Google Nest Stacks Up

Price

Control from App

Away Mode

Monthly Report

Learn More

Nest Learning Thermostat	Ecobee 4	Honeywell Lyric
$199.00	$189.00	112.99*
Yes ✓	Yes ✓	Yes ✓
Yes ✓	Yes ✓	Yes ✓
Yes ✓	No X	No X
View on Home Depot	View on Home Depot	View on Amazon

Info current as of 05/13/2020. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

*Amazon.com price as of 05/13/2020 at 01:35 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer.

The best smart thermostats share similar automation features that give you control from afar—like a mobile app, automatic scheduling, and self-adjusting technology. Installation is the same across the board too. 

Nest’s learning thermostat stands out with its sleek look, monthly energy report, and long-term savings. 

If you’d rather save money up front, brands like Ecobee and Honeywell have products that give Nest a run for its money. But if you want a thermostat with style and a couple extra features, Google Nest is where it’s at.

Before You Buy Google Nest Thermostat 

Before jumping into a big purchase like a smart thermostat, there are two things you should consider. 

First: compatibility. Check your current thermostat to see if it’s compatible with Nest or any other smart thermostat you’re interested in. Compatibility is based on voltage, so look for a number between 20V to 30V. Many thermostats land around 24V. Nest has a compatibility checker to make the process easier. 

Second: your energy bill. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to save energy, but make sure you’re spending enough on your current bill to warrant a big purchase like this. On average, Nest Thermostats save up to $145 per year after a couple years, but this varies for individuals.1 Energy companies across the country also offer rebates up to $100 to customers who install a smart thermostat. 

Final Word about Nest Thermostats 

With Nest, it takes money to save money, but you can find discounts through your local energy provider if you know where to look. 

While it’s expensive up front, these smart thermostats are an investment that can save you hundreds of dollars over the years. It pays for itself in convenient features and sends reports on how to save even more. It doesn’t hurt that this smart thermostat is beautifully designed either. 

And while you can find similar features in other smart thermostats, its connectivity to smart speakers, security systems, and other products like Nest cams is unmatched.

Nest Thermostat FAQ 

Do Nest thermostats really save money?

While it varies by household and how you use your Nest Thermostat, independent studies have shown up to 12% savings on heating and up to 15% on cooling.¹ 

Check with your local energy provider to see if you can get a rebate for your new smart thermostat. We’ve seen discounts up to $100 that help you save on the thermostat itself. 

Is there a monthly fee for Nest thermostat?

Nope! Unlike Nest cams or the Nest Secure system, there’s no monthly subscription tied to Nest Thermostats. But monthly fees are required for Nest Aware, an optional service that boosts features. 

Can I install a Nest Thermostat myself?

Yes. It takes about an hour to go through the hardware and software setups, but even new DIY-ers can handle installing a Nest Thermostat. If you’d still prefer professional installation, you can find one through Nest. 

What’s the best temperature to set my thermostat at?

The best temperature changes depending on the season and when you’re home. During the cooler months, set your thermostat to around 68° F while you’re home during the winter and 78° F during the warmer months when you’re home. If you go on vacation during cooler months, set it to 55° F to keep your energy usage low while you aren’t using the thermostat.²

Related Articles 

• Connect Nest to Google Home
• 5 Best Smart Thermostats
• We Reviewed the Suite of Nest Cameras
• Ultimate Guide to Alexa and the Amazon Echo Family

Sources (H3)

1. Google Nest Help, “Learn about Nest Thermostats before You buy”
2. Energy.gov, “Thermostats”

Disclaimer

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