It can be very frustrating when your thermostat settings keep changing from your settings, or you can’t seem to maintain a temperature that you like. But it’s very easily fixed.
There are three types of Google Nest Thermostats, and which method you need to use is very dependent on which Nest Thermostat you own:
- Nest Thermostat
- Nest Learning Thermostat
- Nest Thermostat E
The Nest Learning Thermostat is the most expensive because it learns what you like. The Nest Thermostat E is cheaper but also does the same thing.
Methods to Set Nest Thermostat to Hold Temperature
We’ll start with setting the original Nest Thermostat to hold the temperature you desire. It’s pretty straightforward, and you can do it either in the home app or on the Nest Thermostat itself.
Set through the Google Home app
First, you must navigate your Nest app on your phone or tablet. Then select your Thermostat on the opening screen.
Make sure that your Thermostat is set to “Heat,” “Cold,” or “Heat • Cool.” If it’s not on one of these settings, this won’t work. Then select the “Hold Temperature” feature.
Set the desired temperature that you want it to hold. Then you must select what time you want the temperature hold to end.
Note that with the “Eco Mode,” you can select “none,” and the Thermostat will hold the desired temperature until you change it again.
You should be able to set your Nest Thermostat to hold temperature for up to 24 hours. Press start, and your temperature hold should begin.
Set through the Nest Thermostat
Setting a specific temperature is even easier on the Nest Thermostat itself.
First, you’ll need to go to the menu view on your Thermostat and select the “Hold” option. Select “Eco Mode” to hold the temperature indefinitely, or use the “Current Temp” settings to pick how many hours you’d like the hold to last.
Choose “Confirm,” which will activate your hold.
With either option, if you wish to change the set temperature, you’ll have to end the hold first. It’s straightforward: select the “Hold Temperature” icon and choose “Stop.” Then you’ll be free to set a new hold or change the temperature.
How to Set Nest Thermostat to Hold Temperature (Learning and E)
The Nest Thermostat E and Nest Learning Thermostat work a little differently and will need you to take different steps to get the desired results.
Your Nest Learning Thermostat will have one scheduling option: “Auto-Schedule.” Your Nest Thermostat E will have two scheduling options: “Auto-Schedule” and “Basic Schedule.”
These models of Nest Thermostat are designed to learn about your daily routine and temperature preferences and then automatically create a schedule around that. This is the “Auto-Schedule” feature.
Disabling auto-schedule
It’s necessary to start by disabling the “Auto-Schedule” because this is how the Nest Thermostat learns what temperatures and times you prefer them. This function will override any manual scheduling unless disabled.
When you disable this setting, the Nest Thermostat will keep its existing schedule, but it will stop learning from any changes made until you re-enable the feature.
From Nest App – First, find your Nest app on your phone or tablet. Then select your Thermostat on the opening screen.
Choose “Settings” and then select “Auto-Schedule” from there; you just have to press “Off,” and then it’s done.
From Thermostat – First, you’ll need to go to the menu view on your Thermostat and select “Settings.” Then select “Nest Sense” next; you have to select “Auto-Schedule,” and press “Off” to complete the process.
Disabling Eco temperatures
Nest Thermostats have an “Eco Temperatures” feature that automatically adjusts the temperature when it ascertains that no one is home. The point of this feature is to conserve energy and save you money on your electric bill.
A green leaf icon on your Nest app or Thermostat means that “Eco Mode” is enabled. It’s important to disable this feature because it can override any hold you set if it senses that no one is home.
From Nest App – First, you need to navigate to your Nest app on your phone or tablet. After that, scroll to “Home/Away Assist” and select “Stop Using.” Then choose the “Stop” option.
From Thermostat – First, you’ll need to go to the menu view on your Thermostat and select “Settings.” After that, scroll to “Home/Away Assist” and choose “Stop Using.“
NOTE: While the “Eco Temperatures” feature should be disabled now, as a backup option, it’s recommended that you turn the setting to “Off” on your Thermostat or Nest app by adjusting the temperature range. Here’s how:
First, you’ll need to go to the menu view on your Thermostat or app and select “Settings.” Then select “Eco” and set “Heat To” to the “Off” setting by lowering the temperature down to the lowest setting.
Set “Cool To” to the “Off” setting by increasing the temperature up to the highest setting. Then select “Done” to save your new settings.
Resetting schedules
You’ll have to do this part from your Nest Thermostat instead of the app.
Go to your Thermostat, pull up the main menu, and then go to “Settings” and navigate to “Reset.” Then select “Schedule” or “Auto-Schedule” and click on “Reset” or “Clear.” Confirm that you want to reset the schedule by turning the ring. The Thermostat will do a 10-second countdown, and then you’re done.
Comparing Nest Thermostat Models
Understanding the difference between the various Nest Thermostat models can be essential in using them effectively. While the models share many features, they each have unique traits that differentiate them from one another.
The original Nest Thermostat has a premium metal build and high-resolution color screen. As mentioned, it allows you to set your desired temperature through the Nest app or directly on the device.
The Nest Learning Thermostat offers the most features. It has a similar design to the original Nest Thermostat but adds the ability to learn from your habits. Over time, it automatically adjusts your temperature settings based on your daily routines and preferences, saving energy when you’re away from home.
The Nest Thermostat E, the budget-friendly model, maintains the majority of the essential features found in the other two models but with a few differences. It lacks the high-resolution screen, substituting it for a frosted display that blends into any room. It’s designed to be more accessible, with an easy-to-use interface and the same learning features found in the Nest Learning Thermostat.
As you seek troubleshooting tips, be certain to know which model you own, since instructions may differ between models.
Maximizing Energy Efficiency with Nest Thermostats
Nest Thermostats are not just about comfort; they also help save energy. The smart scheduling feature, when used correctly, can significantly reduce your energy bills. It adapts to your lifestyle and makes adjustments accordingly, so you’re not heating or cooling an empty home.
The Nest Thermostat E and Nest Learning Thermostat also include the “Home/Away Assist” feature, which uses the location of your phone and built-in sensors to determine whether you’re home. When you’re away, it automatically switches to the “Eco” mode to conserve energy. Remember to have location services enabled for this feature to work effectively.
It’s also worth noting that many utility companies offer rebates for using smart thermostats like Nest, so make sure to check if you qualify.
FAQs
How do I lock the temperature on my Nest Thermostat?
Now that you know how to set your Thermostat to hold temperature, you may want to ensure that nobody can mess with your settings while you’re away or when guests visit.
You can easily lock it so nobody else can change the settings unless they have a pin.
On the Thermostat – Go to the quick view menu, navigate to “Settings,” and then turn the ring until you find “Lock.” Press the ring to confirm that you wish to lock your Thermostat. Enter a four-digit pin, press the ring again, and choose “Done.” A lock icon should appear.
On the app – First, navigate to your Nest app on your phone or tablet. Go to “Settings” and scroll to “Lock.” Enter a four-digit pin – you may have to enter it again for confirmation.
The lock icon should immediately appear if you lock your Thermostat while it’s on “Heat • Cool” mode. If you lock the Thermostat while on “Heat” or “Cool” mode, you’ll need to set the temperature ranges before successfully locking it.
Note that if anyone has access to your Nest app, they will be able to unlock your Thermostat. So don’t share your pin unnecessarily.
Do I have to set a new schedule?
This step is optional; you can set up a manual schedule after you’ve reset it, but it shouldn’t be necessary. The Thermostat should maintain your preferred temperature after you set it.
Why is my Nest Thermostat not holding the temperature I set?
This may happen if the ‘Auto-Schedule’ feature is enabled, as it learns your preferences over time and creates a schedule based on your routines. To set and hold a specific temperature, you’ll need to disable ‘Auto-Schedule’ as explained above. If the Auto-Schedule feature is disabled and the thermostat still doesn’t turn on the A/C, see additional tips here.
What should I do if my Nest Thermostat is offline and can’t connect to Wi-Fi?
First, check your Wi-Fi network to make sure it’s working correctly. If it is, try resetting your Nest Thermostat’s network settings. Be certain that the thermostat has a sufficient power source, too, since these thermostats sometimes struggle to maintain a charge. If the issue persists, it may be necessary to reset the device to factory settings and reinstall it.
Does Nest Thermostat require professional installation?
No, Nest Thermostats come with step-by-step instructions for self-installation. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY or if your home has complex HVAC systems, you might prefer professional installation.
For more troubleshooting tips on Nest thermostats, see:
- How to turn off a Nest fan that is always on
- How to fix a Nest thermostat that won’t turn on the A/C
- How to fix a Nest thermostat that won’t charge
Final Thoughts
It’s not too complicated to adjust the settings of your Nest Thermostat, as long as you know which model you have.
It’s also convenient because you can do it on the app or the Thermostat itself — whatever you prefer.
