Nest 3rd Generation Thermostat Review | Pros & Cons

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Nest 3rd Generation Thermostat Review: The best feature of Nest 3rd generation thermostat is probably the additional functions in half the size. It is circular in shape with a digital display in the middle. Though the shape of Nest 3rd generation is the same as its 2nd generation, when compared, the former is visibly smaller in size and dimensions. It has a diameter of 3.3 inches and a thickness of 1.2 inches. In spite of its significantly small size, the display area of the Nest 3rd generation thermostat is quite larger than its predecessor.

Also Read – 5 Best Smart Honeywell Thermostat for 2023.

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Advantages of the Nest 3rd generation thermostat:

  • It is programmed in such a way that it tracks weather automatically. This reduces energy consumption, helps in saving energy, and adjusts the temperature accordingly.
  • It has a 40% larger display than the Nest 2nd generation thermostat.
  • There is a far-field sensor that can detect you across the room and display the time or temperature.
  • It can be controlled using a smartphone, tablet, or pc, remotely.
  • A summary of your thermostat settings is displayed at the twist of the outer ring in the model.
  • There is a preset motion sensor that is capable of detecting when the room or space is not being used and switches to ‘Away’ mode.
  • The thermostat will observe and learn your routine over 7 days and program itself accordingly.
  • The Nest 3rd generation thermostat is compatible with 95% of HVAC systems across North America.

The model does not come without its shortcomings as well.

Disadvantages of the Nest 3rd generation thermostat:

  • The sensor that detects whether the user is home or not, is fitted into the thermostat itself. This required the thermostat to be installed in the room where most of the activities take place in the home. Otherwise, automatic regulation becomes unreliable.
  • The unit may be required to be installed in a different room or space than any earlier thermostat for its motion sensor technology to work the most efficiently.
  • It has just a single sensor, unlike most of its counterparts, making its competitors more efficient and convenient.

Ease of Use: The Nest 3rd generation thermostat comes with a preset schedule. However, it observes, learns, and adapts to your schedule. In case of any change in schedule, the motion sensors will work to switch it on or off, thus making it much more convenient.

Installation: As mentioned earlier, it might be required to install the Nest 3rd generation thermostat in a room different from where the earlier thermostat was installed. Though it does not necessarily need a ‘C’ wire to function, it can be possible to install it without one given the required power can be drawn from other feeds. This model works best with a ‘C’ wire but in case you don’t have one installed, you can always work it around for it to function properly. It might also be possible for the user to end up with intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity.

Programming: The 3rd generation Nest thermostat needs only the initial settings to be incorporated according to the user’s requirement. Once the initial setup is done, the thermostat learns your schedule and programs itself to work accordingly. The settings could be altered with a smartphone but the settings incorporated can also be locked in with a PIN. This feature is to prevent others from changing your thermostat settings.

Energy-Saving: The Nest 3rd generation is quite an efficient model when it comes to energy consumption. The ‘AutoAway’ feature ensures that the unit is switched off in case no one is detected in 2 hours. This comes in handy during sudden changes in your schedule. The energy companies offer discounts or a rebate for approved programmable thermostats in some areas. Besides, the 10-day report also helps the user to understand where most of the energy is used and how it can be minimized.

Takeaway

Nest’s “Works with Nest” initiative has grown rapidly, and now it supports a long list of home automation products that are compatible with Nest. This smart thermostat is more costly than similar options. However, the features it offers are well worth the cost which not only lets you regulate the temperature throughout your house, but also in individual rooms. The learning capability of this thermostat, however, is truly remarkable.

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