What is smart home technology including a Google Nest?
It’s been a while since Smart Technology appeared in our homes. There are many types of smart home devices you can now purchase from home heating to security. The idea of being able to control your home through apps from far away in another country is quite impressive, so why has this area of technology not yet taken off in UK homes?
WarmZilla partnered with Google Nest to address;
- Customer education about the products
- Complications in setting up the devices themselves
- Being able to source suitably qualified engineers to install 1 or more smart home devices
These are fundamental issues for Google when promoting their devices because they cannot expand their operations without the above being resolved. Google have now realised that by making the devices easier to set up and connect to other home devices, it provides an opportunity for customers to set up their smart home themselves. In addition to this step, Google (Google Nest) now have a voice activated product called Google Home that engages with the home devices to enable them to function. This is very much like Amazon’s Echo device which is controlled via Alexa. Whilst it is now easier to install these products yourself, it is always sensible to employ a suitably qualified engineer who can install the devices in one go, or adding it as you go along.
The most popular device is the Nest learning thermostat. This device is usually installed when you have a new boiler fitted and has some fantastic features which can save you a nice bit of cash. Alternatively, a Nest learning thermostat can be installed on existing systems where a boiler has been installed for many years. The Nest is great for controlling your home’s heating system and has a learning feature which really takes home heating to the next level.
The key features of a Nest learning thermostat are:
- Beautiful design
- Easily adjustable control
- Simple but informative display
- Money-saving features
- Cost-effective
- Affordable
- Google Nest device
Purchasing a Google Nest is available at the checkout point when buying a new boiler with WarmZilla. If you choose to select the Google Nest as an additional extra at the end of our online survey, the price will also include a stand and installation cost.
But first, let’s talk about smart thermostats.
What are smart thermostats?
Smart thermostats are the gear that connects your heating system to the internet so you can change your home temperature on the go (on your smartphone) or on your computer.
Keep in mind that they are not the same as smart metres, which most energy companies offer for free nowadays.
Smart thermostats are easy to install. You don’t need to call a heating engineer or your energy supplier.
The best smart thermostat brands in 2023 are; Google Nest, Hive, Honeywell, Tado, Drayton and Netatmo.
Now let’s take a look at some of the options available to you when choosing a Google Nest Smart thermostat from WarmZilla
How does Google Nest work?
Now, we know that technology can be confusing, so we’ve added a ‘how-to’ list, explaining how to set up and use your Google Nest.
We recommend professional installation for a 3rd or 2nd gen Nest Learning Thermostat.
Installing and using your Nest Learning Thermostat:
The Nest thermostat has been designed to work with many different types of heating systems. You can use the Google compatibility checker to determine if your home is compatible with the Nest thermostat.
Because 3rd and 2nd gen Nest Learning Thermostats sometimes require changes to the thermostat wiring, you should have yours professionally installed in order to keep you safe and avoid damaging your system or your thermostat.
After your thermostat is set up and connected to Wi-Fi you can add it to the Nest app to start using your phone to control your thermostat, get monthly updates on your energy use, and more.
Fil pilote system wiring
Below is the wiring diagram for 3rd gen Nest Learning Thermostats. No matter which thermostat you have, we recommend installation by a Nest Pro because advanced wiring is usually necessary. For instance, your Nest Pro may need to install an additional fil pilote diode (sold separately) depending on your current system.
To set up your Google Nest you’ll need to answer questions on your thermostat. If you’re installing a 3rd or 2nd gen Nest Learning Thermostat, your thermostat will guide you through a series of simple questions about your home, what temperatures you like, and your heating system.
Your Nest thermostat will use this information to help keep you comfortable and help save you energy.
Turn your thermostat’s ring to highlight different options and press the ring towards the wall to confirm your selection.
The benefits of Google Nest Learning Thermostat
- Thermostat – Turn the heat on and off
- Hot water – Control your hot water
- Energy History – See how much energy you’ve used in the last ten days and why
- Schedule – See or adjust the schedule that the Nest Thermostat has learned from your temperature changes.
- Settings – Choose options like Thermostat Lock and True Radiant.
- Away – Set the Nest Thermostat to Away when you leave to save energy while you’re out
Google Home Mini
Google has also introduced a voice control device called Google Home Mini.
Google has extended its product range to cater to additional home requirements which are usually hard-wired and/or fixed products. Once you have the Nest learning thermostat installed, you will be able to control these devices in the same way you would control your home’s central heating system.
The full range of Google smart home devices
SAFETY AND SECURITY
CAMERAS
Nest Cam IQ Indoor
Nest Cam Indoor
Nest Cam IQ Outdoor
Nest Cam Outdoor
The future of our homes and the way we control them has changed. We are still in the habit of using controls and methods that were handed down to us from a bygone era. We now find ourselves in a new age of technology that can make our lives safer, cheaper, and easier. The Google Nest range provides everything we need in smart home technology, produced by a tech brand you can trust. This is not the future, the future is now.
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