1. Introduction
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is designed to learn your preferences and optimize your home's heating and cooling for comfort and energy efficiency. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, setup, operation, and maintenance of your Nest Thermostat.

Figure 1: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Copper)
2. What's in the Box
Your Nest Learning Thermostat package includes the following components:
- Nest Thermostat Base
- Nest Thermostat Display
- Installation Guide
- Mounting screws and labels
- Nest Pro installation card
- Nest screwdriver
- Optional trim kit
- Welcome Guide
3. Compatibility
The Nest Learning Thermostat is compatible with approximately 95% of 24V heating and cooling systems. It is important to verify your system's compatibility before installation.
3.1 Checking Compatibility
To ensure your system is compatible, visit the Google Nest support page and use the online Nest Compatibility Checker. This tool will guide you through identifying your current thermostat wiring and confirm if the Nest Thermostat will work with your setup.
3.2 High Voltage Systems
The Nest Thermostat is NOT compatible with high voltage systems (110V, 120V, or 240V). These systems typically have thick wires connected with wire nuts or are explicitly labeled with high voltage ratings. Do NOT connect your Nest Thermostat to high voltage wires as this can cause damage to the device and your system, and poses a safety risk.
4. Safety Information
Before beginning any installation, always prioritize safety. Ensure the power to your heating and cooling system is completely off at the circuit breaker. Failure to do so can result in electrical shock or damage to your equipment.
4.1 Power Disconnection
- Locate your home's circuit breaker box.
- Turn off the switch that controls power to your heating and cooling system. This is often labeled 'Furnace', 'AC', or 'HVAC'.
- To confirm power is off, try to adjust the temperature on your old thermostat. If the system does not respond, power is successfully disconnected.
5. Installation
Installing your Nest Learning Thermostat is typically a straightforward process that can be completed in 30 minutes or less. Follow these steps carefully.
5.1 Removing Your Old Thermostat
- Ensure power is off (refer to Section 4.1).
- Carefully remove the front cover of your old thermostat. Some may pop off, others might have screws.
- Take a picture of the wiring. This photo will serve as a crucial reference for connecting your new Nest Thermostat.
- If there's a jumper wire connecting two terminals (e.g., R and Rc), remove it. You won't need it for the Nest.
- Use the provided labels to mark each wire according to its terminal on your old thermostat.
- Disconnect the wires from your old thermostat's backplate. Use the Nest screwdriver if your old thermostat has screw terminals.
- Remove the old thermostat's backplate from the wall.
5.2 Installing the Nest Base
- If there are any holes or unpainted areas on the wall from your old thermostat, you can use the optional trim kit to cover them.
- Gently pull the wires through the center opening of the Nest base.
- Mount the Nest base to the wall using the provided screws. Use the built-in level to ensure it's straight.
5.3 Connecting the Wires
- Ensure the ends of your thermostat wires are straight and stripped to approximately 3/8 inch (10mm) of exposed wire.
- Insert each labeled wire into its corresponding connector on the Nest base. Press down the connector button and push the wire all the way in until the button stays down.
- Push any excess wire back into the wall to ensure the Nest display can connect flush with the base.
5.4 Attaching the Nest Display
- Hold the Nest display so the 'nest' logo is at the top.
- Push the display onto the base until you hear it click into place.
5.5 Restoring Power
Return to your circuit breaker box and turn the power back on to your heating and cooling system.
Video: Installing Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Generation)
6. Setup
Once power is restored, your Nest Thermostat will start up and guide you through the initial setup process on its display. This typically takes only a few minutes.
6.1 On-Device Setup Steps
- Language: Select your preferred language.
- Internet Connection: Connect your Nest Thermostat to your home's Wi-Fi network. This enables remote control, software updates, and weather information.
- Your Location: Provide your home's location (e.g., ZIP code) so Nest can set the local time and determine the weather forecast.
- Equipment: Tell Nest about your heating and cooling system type.
- Temperature: Set your initial desired temperature.
- System Test: Run a quick test to ensure your heating and cooling system is working correctly with the Nest Thermostat.
6.2 Nest App Setup
To unlock the full potential of your Nest Thermostat, download and set up the Nest app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Download the free Nest app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Launch the app and create a new Nest account, or sign in if you already have one.
- In the app, tap 'Add' or navigate to the settings menu and select 'Add product'.
- Choose 'Nest Thermostat' from the list.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to enter the entry key displayed on your Nest Thermostat's screen.
- Once connected, your Nest Thermostat will appear on the app's home screen, allowing you to control it remotely.
7. Operating Instructions
The Nest Learning Thermostat is designed for intuitive operation, both directly on the device and through the Nest app.
7.1 Adjusting Temperature
- On the Thermostat: Turn the outer ring clockwise to increase the temperature or counter-clockwise to decrease it.
- Via Nest App: Open the Nest app, select your thermostat, and adjust the temperature using the on-screen controls.
- Voice Control: If connected to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, you can adjust the temperature using voice commands (e.g., "Hey Google, set the thermostat to 72 degrees").
7.2 Modes and Settings
Press the Nest Thermostat's display to access the main menu. From here, you can navigate through various modes and settings:
- Heat: Activates your heating system.
- Cool: Activates your cooling system.
- Heat•Cool: Automatically switches between heating and cooling to maintain a set temperature range.
- Off: Turns off your heating and cooling system.
- Eco: Engages energy-saving temperatures when your home is empty.
- Fan: Manually control your system's fan.
- Schedule: View and adjust your personalized heating and cooling schedule.
- History: Review your energy usage over time.
- Settings: Access advanced configurations for your thermostat.
7.3 Learning Capabilities
The Nest Learning Thermostat observes your temperature adjustments and learns your preferences over time. It will automatically create a schedule that adapts to your habits, helping to save energy without sacrificing comfort.
7.4 Home/Away Assist
This feature uses sensors and your phone's location to detect if you're home or away. When you leave, it automatically switches to an energy-saving Eco Temperature, preventing you from heating or cooling an empty house.
7.5 Energy History & Nest Leaf
Monitor your energy consumption through the Energy History feature on the thermostat display or the Nest app. The Nest Leaf icon appears on the display when you select a temperature that is energy-efficient, guiding you towards savings.
7.6 Nest Renew
Nest Renew helps you support clean energy by automatically prioritizing your energy usage during times when energy is cleaner or less expensive. This feature requires a compatible Nest Learning Thermostat and is available in select regions.

Figure 2: Nest Renew helps optimize energy usage.
8. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Nest Thermostat and HVAC system.
8.1 HVAC Monitoring
The Nest Thermostat includes HVAC monitoring features that can detect potential issues with your heating and cooling systems. It sends alerts if something seems wrong and provides helpful reminders for routine maintenance, such as changing air filters.
8.2 Cleaning
Wipe the Nest Thermostat's display and outer ring with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
9. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Nest Learning Thermostat, consider the following common solutions:
9.1 Power Issues (2-Wire Systems)
In older 2-wire HVAC systems, the Nest Thermostat's internal battery may not receive sufficient power, leading to short cycling of your heating/cooling system or display issues. This occurs because the thermostat's processor requires continuous power, which a 2-wire setup may not consistently provide for battery recharging.
- Symptom: Thermostat frequently turns off/on, display goes blank, or Wi-Fi disconnects.
- Solution: Install a 24V AC power source (C-wire adapter) to provide continuous power to the Nest Thermostat. This ensures stable operation and proper battery charging.
9.2 Wi-Fi Connectivity
- Symptom: Thermostat loses Wi-Fi connection or cannot connect during setup.
- Solution: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is active and within range. Check your network password. If issues persist, try restarting your router and the Nest Thermostat.
9.3 Incorrect Temperature Readings
- Symptom: Thermostat displays inaccurate room temperature.
- Solution: Ensure the thermostat is not exposed to direct sunlight, drafts, or heat sources (e.g., lamps, electronics) that could affect its temperature sensor.
10. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Google Nest Learning Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat (Model T3021US):
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | |
| Model Name | Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Generation |
| Product Dimensions | 1.21"D x 3.3"W x 3.3"H |
| Controller Type | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Insteon, Nexia, Nest |
| Special Feature | Wireless: 802.11b/g/n @ 2.4GHz, 5GHz; 802.15.4 @ 2.4GHz; Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) |
| Color | Copper |
| Specific Uses For Product | Air Conditioner, Heating |
| Temperature Control Type | Learning |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Power Source | Battery Powered (with 1 Lithium Ion battery included) |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces (1 pound) |
| Voltage | 24 Volts |
| Material | Metal |
| Display Type | Digital |
| Screen Size | 2.1 Inches |
| Control Method | Voice, Rotary Dial, App |
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount |
| Backlight | Yes |
| Certification | UL Listed |
| UPC | 745558989031, 813917020227 |

Figure 3: Product Dimensions
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, detailed support articles, and further assistance, please visit the official Google Nest support website. You can find troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and contact options for customer service.
Google Nest Support: nest.com/support





