Google's Nest brand just launched a new low-cost thermostat that looks to be as smart as it is attractive. The Nest Thermostat is available for pre-order now in gray, light pink, mint, or white for $129.99, though there's no word yet on its actual release date.
Not to be confused with the $170 Nest Thermostat E or the $250 Nest Learning Thermostat, the $130 Nest Thermostat features a circular mirrored touch display that shows the target and current temperature, and whether it's in active heating or cooling mode. Controls on the side let you change the temperature with a swipe up or down. You can also control it with your voice via Google Assistant through your smartphone or with smart speakers like the Nest Mini.
Nest says that most people will be able to install the new thermostat in 30 minutes or less with the help of its companion app, which walks you through every step of the process. If you're not sure whether the thermostat will work with your current setup, be sure to check out the compatibility tool on the Google Store. Nest is also selling an optional $14.99 trim kit that matches the thermostat and is designed to cover any imperfections on your wall from taking down the old one.
During the setup process, you can customize temperature presets for home, away, and sleep mode, or go with the suggested options. The thermostat uses Google Soli sensors and geofencing technology to understand when your home is empty and adjust the temperature accordingly, so you're not heating or cooling an empty house. It also uses the sensor to turn the screen on when you walk in front of the device.
The thermostat is Energy Star-certified, and Nest says it can help you save an average of 10 to 12 percent on heating and 15 percent on cooling costs. A new Savings Finder feature suggests simple ways to reduce your energy usage, like slightly increasing your sleep temperature, and lets you update your settings in a few taps.
It offers a new HVAC monitoring feature that sends you an alert if something seems off, like if your air conditioner is taking longer than expected to cool your home. It will also remind you about routine maintenance tasks, like when it's time to change your AC filter based on your actual runtime, not a calendar date.
With the introduction of the new Nest Thermostat, the Nest Thermostat E will now shift to become a pro channel exclusive, while the Nest Learning Thermostat will remain in the company's lineup.
Before buying one, make sure to check your local utility website for any rebates or rewards that can save you some money. You can also type in your zip code via the Google Store to check for rebates and apply them at checkout in some cases.
We hope to test the Nest Thermostat soon, so be sure to check back for a full review.