Quck answer
Installing and using a Nest Thermostat is a simple process that can help you save energy and control your home’s temperature more efficiently. To install the thermostat, turn off the power to your HVAC system, remove your old thermostat, and connect the Nest Thermostat to your HVAC system following the provided instructions. Once installed, connect the Nest Thermostat to your Wi-Fi network and download the Nest app on your smartphone. With the app, you can control the thermostat remotely, set schedules, and monitor energy usage. The Nest Thermostat also learns your preferences and adjusts the temperature accordingly for maximum comfort and energy savings.
Replacing your old thermostat with a Nest thermostat is a quick and easy process that usually takes less than 30 minutes. You just need to turn off the power, remove the old thermostat, mount the Nest base, connect the wires, and attach the Nest display. After a brief setup process that requires a smartphone, you can test your heating/cooling system and start using your Nest. The installation process is the same for all Nest models, including the Nest Thermostat E and the first, second, and third-generation Nest Learning Thermostats.
A Nest thermostat is a simple replacement for any digital thermostat.
Image Credit: nest/Amazon
Things You’ll Need
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Screwdriver
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Masking tape (if necessary)
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Level (if necessary)
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Drill-driver and 3/32-inch drill bit (if necessary)
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Wire strippers (if necessary)
How to Install a Nest Thermostat
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
First, turn off the power to your heating/cooling system by switching off the appropriate breaker in your home’s service panel (breaker box). Then, confirm that the power is off by adjusting the thermostat well above or below the room temperature. Wait several minutes to make sure that the heating/cooling equipment does not turn on.
The Nest thermostat comes with all the necessary parts, including the trim plate, base plate, and the thermostat body.
Image Credit: Nest
Step 2: Label the Thermostat Wires
A new Nest thermostat comes with adhesive labels that you can use to label each wire in relation to where it connects to the old thermostat. You can also take a photo of the thermostat wires and their terminal connections on the old thermostat for additional reference. If the old thermostat has a short “jumper” wire connecting two terminals, you can remove this wire without labeling it; it will not be needed for your Nest thermostat.
- Pull off the front cover or face of the old thermostat, which should expose the thermostat wiring.
- Take a photo of the wiring connections to record which wires go to which terminals.
- Use the Nest wire labels to label each wire according to the symbols on the old thermostat terminals. Note that the wire color may or may not match the symbol on the respective wire terminal, so it’s important to focus on the terminal symbols.
- Use the online Compatibility Checker at nest.com to confirm that your thermostat is compatible with your wiring. The Checker tool also provides a wiring diagram for the Nest thermostat.
Warning
Nest thermostats are designed for low-voltage thermostat wires, which are thin like individual telephone wires or doorbell wires. If your old thermostat is connected to two or more thick circuit wires (typically with plastic wire connectors or wire nuts), you have a line voltage system that operates on 110/120 or 220/240 volts. Do not connect a Nest thermostat to these wires.
Step 3: Take Out the Old Thermostat
Using a screwdriver, loosen each wire terminal and remove the wire from it. Remove the screws holding the thermostat base to the wall and take off the base. Be careful not to let the wires slip into the wall cavity. If needed, use masking tape to temporarily tape the wires to the wall.
Connecting a Nest thermostat is simple. Match the low-voltage thermostat wires to the corresponding terminals on the thermostat.
Image Credit:
Nest
Tip
If you want a cleaner look, use the optional trim plate that comes with the Nest thermostat to hide the area behind the old thermostat. Alternatively, fill the old screw holes and touch up the wall with paint so you can install the Nest thermostat without the trim plate.
Step 4: Install the Trim Plate (Optional)
If you’re using the trim plate, center it over the hole for the wires and level the base with a small level. Screw the plate to the wall with the two provided screws. You don’t need pilot holes if you’re attaching it to drywall. Use a screwdriver (not a drill) to prevent over-tightening the screws. For wood, plaster or masonry walls, drill pilot holes using a 3/32-inch bit.
Step 5: Mount the Nest Base
If you’re not using the optional trim plate, mount the Nest base directly to the wall. Otherwise, place the Nest base over the plate.
- Center the Nest base over the hole for the wires.
- Level the base with a small level.
- Drive one of the provided mounting screws through the top screw hole in the base and tighten it until snug. You don’t need pilot holes for drywall. Use a screwdriver (not a drill) to prevent over-tightening the screws. For wood, plaster or masonry walls, drill pilot holes using a 3/32-inch bit.
- Confirm that the base is level, then secure it with the other mounting screw.
Insert the individual wires under the corresponding tabs on the Nest base. Note the blue tags on the wires provided in the Nest kit.
Image Credit:
Nest
Step 6: Connect the Thermostat
The ends of the thermostat wires should be straight, with about 3/8 inch of insulation removed. Use wire strippers to straighten the ends and/or strip the insulation, if necessary.
- Follow the wiring diagram provided by the Nest Compatibility Checker and the wire labels to connect each thermostat wire. Press the tab on the Nest base and insert the wire under the tab.
- Confirm that the tab stays down on each wire, indicating that the wire is properly clamped.
- Tuck the wires into the center of the base so they do not protrude beyond the base.
Step 7: Install the Nest Display
Place the Nest display so that the logo is level and right-side-up.
- Attach the Nest display to the base by pushing it until it clicks in place.
- Turn on the breaker(s) and/or disconnect switches that you previously turned off to restore power to the heating/cooling system. The Nest display will power on. If a red blinking light appears, wait for the Nest battery to charge before proceeding.
Step 8: Installing the Nest Thermostat
Once power is restored (and the Nest battery has charged, if necessary), the Nest thermostat will start up and prepare for the setup process. The setup process will guide you through a set of questions regarding preferred language, Internet connection, location, and heating/cooling equipment. The Nest thermostat will also run a system test to ensure that both the thermostat and heating/cooling equipment are functioning correctly.
The final step is to set up your Nest thermostat using the Nest app on your smartphone. If you have a Nest Thermostat E, you must choose the type of schedule the Nest will use to establish temperature settings. You can choose the Basic Schedule to follow pre-programmed settings based on nationally averaged data or the Auto-Schedule to learn your manual settings and program itself accordingly over a few days.
Your Nest thermostat is now ready to use. For additional setup information, documentation, user tips, and troubleshooting help, visit the nest.com website.
FAQ
1. What is a Nest Thermostat and why should I install one?
A Nest Thermostat is a smart device that allows you to control the temperature of your home remotely. It learns your preferences over time and adjusts the temperature accordingly, helping you save energy and reduce your utility bills. Installing a Nest Thermostat can also improve the comfort of your home by ensuring that it’s always at the right temperature when you need it.
2. How do I install a Nest Thermostat?
To install a Nest Thermostat, start by turning off the power to your HVAC system at the breaker box. Remove your old thermostat and label the wires connected to it. Connect the corresponding wires to the Nest Thermostat’s base plate. Attach the Nest Thermostat to the base plate and restore power to your HVAC system. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup and connect the thermostat to your Wi-Fi network. Once installed, you can control the thermostat using the Nest app on your smartphone or through voice commands if you have a compatible smart home assistant.
3. Can I use a Nest Thermostat with my existing HVAC system?
Yes, Nest Thermostats are compatible with most HVAC systems, including gas, electric, oil, and forced air systems. They can also work with heat pumps, dual fuel systems, and radiant systems. However, it’s recommended to check Nest’s compatibility guide or consult a professional if you have any doubts about the compatibility of your specific HVAC system.
4. How do I use a Nest Thermostat?
Using a Nest Thermostat is simple. You can adjust the temperature manually by turning the outer ring or by using the Nest app on your smartphone. The thermostat also learns your schedule and temperature preferences over time, so it can automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away or asleep. Additionally, you can create custom schedules or enable features like “Home/Away Assist” to optimize energy savings. The thermostat’s display also shows weather information and alerts for filter replacements or system issues.
5. Can a Nest Thermostat help me save money on energy bills?
Yes, a Nest Thermostat can help you save money on energy bills. By learning your schedule and adjusting the temperature when you’re away or asleep, it helps reduce unnecessary heating or cooling. The thermostat also provides energy usage reports and tips to help you better understand and manage your energy consumption. Additionally, features like “Early-On” can preheat or precool your home to reach the desired temperature at the scheduled time, without wasting energy by running the HVAC system for longer periods.