Submitted by MavDrake t3_z83vtl in RhodeIsland
Comments
A-12-Archangel t1_iy9o2pv wrote
Dam government hacking my thermostat, no thank you.
TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9oo24 wrote
Google in control of my heat... No thanks. I'll keep my privacy thanks
MavDrake OP t1_iy9oq8s wrote
This is why they make this:
https://rienergymarketplace.com/Nest-Power-Connector/P-NSTPWRADP.html
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.
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.
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.
MavDrake OP t1_iy9q367 wrote
I agree, it is poorly designed and hard to get checked out.
buddhamanjpb t1_iy9qmkq wrote
It's optional
buddhamanjpb t1_iy9qow6 wrote
Joe Biden can see you through it too....
/s
TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9qzmk wrote
Well it's the privacy, it's reliability. If a nest has the same reliability as my phone I'm in trouble lol
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.
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
zjanderson t1_iy9rlgi wrote
Google sends these out for free. Don’t purchase it.
zjanderson t1_iy9rpo8 wrote
I have three of these. The government does not do this.
MavDrake OP t1_iy9rrcg wrote
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.
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.
MavDrake OP t1_iy9sq77 wrote
Beware of those 5G waves too /s
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..
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.
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.
buddhamanjpb t1_iy9tnqd wrote
I'm pretty sure I read on www.hillarysucks.eagle.facts.biz that the vaccine microchip cancels out the 5G side effects...
zjanderson t1_iy9trry wrote
There’s probably some truth to that.
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.
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.
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.
MavDrake OP t1_iy9uyu4 wrote
To be fair... this has been a thing before they took over.
They're just money grubbers.
MavDrake OP t1_iy9v763 wrote
It's a thermostat...
huh_phd t1_iy9vbka wrote
That collects your data. You can just use a non Google product?
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.
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
TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9vth6 wrote
I'd only have that and one of those door bell cam things
noungning t1_iy9vvlx wrote
This model has battery and shouldn't have that issue, but I guess we'll see in a few months.
damionrux t1_iy9vwgn wrote
I mean, you’re right. I’m just salty- and cold.
MavDrake OP t1_iy9w1tn wrote
To determine a better heating/cooling cycle.
The heck you think they're collecting make?
Tastful nudes of you?
MavDrake OP t1_iy9w72s wrote
I was looking at it as well but wasn't.
How long have you had it?
TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9wtxp wrote
I'd only have that and one of those door bell cam things no panels yet
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.
TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iy9xn9k wrote
I have a pellet wood supplemented with oil and looking to go off as much grid as I can
port547 t1_iy9yy5k wrote
Haha, I bought it in September and bought some additional sensors in October.
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.
gravytrain2112 t1_iya0a60 wrote
You say this, but you probably have an iPhone, a computer, smart tv, etc….
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.
Gsquzared t1_iya1jw8 wrote
Same. Just commented with my experience after coughing up the $40 for the connect kit.
huh_phd t1_iya1zdy wrote
No iPhone. My desktop runs either Ubuntu or talOS on a flash drive, and no smart TV.
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.
_-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.
Gsquzared t1_iya44ft wrote
It does request a c wire when you hook it up.
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.
zjanderson t1_iya4o6b wrote
Batteries drain rapidly without a C wire.
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.
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.
MavDrake OP t1_iya6kr7 wrote
- turns wifi off
TypicalpoorAmerican t1_iya7ys3 wrote
Look into “How your power company can remotely control your smart thermostat” before you buy this
MavDrake OP t1_iya8627 wrote
*turns off wifi function
There... all better....
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
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.
MavDrake OP t1_iyacux3 wrote
If that ever happened all you need to do... is turn off the nests wifi...
*mind blows up
Gsquzared t1_iyakoxk wrote
Google had some steep discounts on the Nest E thermostats. Those don't require the c wire.
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
MavDrake OP t1_iyalkjy wrote
It learns your heating and cooling habits... it can save your money.
55galBucketHunter t1_iyamggx wrote
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.
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.
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.
j0nny5iv3 t1_iyapbbe wrote
You would have to be subscribed to their rebate programs…
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.
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.
tommygfunke t1_iyas92k wrote
Which model do you have? I was just on their website and both models require a C-wire (or adapter).
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?
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
MavDrake OP t1_iyawb7m wrote
And? I listed the features for the one I posted...
Did I say it was the other?
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.
MavDrake OP t1_iyaxjs5 wrote
That's literally from the RIE website.... for this model...
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 .
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.
b4ngl4d3sh t1_iyazo50 wrote
Just another way to let Google further into your home and habits. I'll stay manual, thanks.
b4ngl4d3sh t1_iyazrvk wrote
Honestly, the less Google is in my home, the better.
TwinFinTriggerFish t1_iyazxcm wrote
I'm not home often enough to care as long as I come in to it being 80 degrees inside
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.
Vanitas_Daemon t1_iyb0iui wrote
Why not just...make a thermostat with an Arduino?
buddhamanjpb t1_iyb17fw wrote
I have the older white model. I forget the model name.
55galBucketHunter t1_iyb18d6 wrote
Yeah it doesn’t seem like it does anything you can’t do manually with some diligence.
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.
sbaz86 t1_iyb1q1y wrote
This person knows exactly what he’s talking about. It’ll damage your HVAC equipment.
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.
LEENIEBEENIE93 t1_iyb50r8 wrote
I just wanted to thank you! Just grabbed 2! Super deal!
MavDrake OP t1_iybbr8t wrote
Northeast problems
internetTroll151 t1_iybbzj2 wrote
The common wire should provide continuous power, even when the system is off
rocketmonkeys t1_iyc5ko2 wrote
Ri has a similar program. It's optional/opt in, same thing.
Tonydildos t1_iycgwxf wrote
Are you saying north east problems because houses are older and likely not to have a c wire?
MavDrake OP t1_iycgzij wrote
Yes, and to be fair is more of an east coast issue.
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
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.
Emotional-Simple-478 t1_iycswaf wrote
I don't have one and I was still able to install these thermostats
eldetepro t1_iyct1nq wrote
I believe that will run the risk of your battery dying and your heat turning off
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.
escaped_bird t1_iycv88f wrote
Thank you for sharing!
no_step t1_iycw5xi wrote
Or block telemetry/remote access with your firewall
port547 t1_iyd0i1b wrote
I’m renting so I ran the c wire outside,https://ibb.co/X5r4pp7 Luckily the outlet isn’t too far away https://ibb.co/hdGjJd9
eldetepro t1_iyd789s wrote
Running on batteries? How is it powered ?
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.
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.
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.
_-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.