Cannot setup Nest thermostat with power connector

[RB56]

I've successfully installed three Nest thermostats already, using the 3-wire cables that I ran for my heat-only furnace. But I'm having trouble with using the Google power connector to the fourth one (using 2-wire cable). During app setup, I indicated that the power connector was already connected (I know that I installed it correctly.)  I did notice that the thermostat wasn't indicating any progress during the setup, including the usual "wi-fi not connected" message. As I continued, the app informed me that the red and white wires could not be seen. After trying again, I got "low power" message on the app. I'm informed that I need a "free Nest Power Connector" but this is already installed. Could this power connector be defective? Has anyone had this issue?

[David_K]

If you’ve already installed it and the power status is “not detected,” try running a power test. The status should change to “detected” after the power test.

1. Make sure your thermostat is set to Off mode.
2. On the Nest Thermostat, select Settings > Equipment.
3. Select Power Connector > Power test.
4. Wait for the power test to finish, and then select Done.
5. To confirm, select Settings > Equipment > Power Connector > Power Status. The screen should now read “Nest Power Connector Detected.”

[RB56]

Thank you, but how do I set the Nest thermostat to "off" mode? All it displays is "Continue setup in the Google Home app" and which doesn't change during app setup.  And I can't get into Settings...it does not respond to tap on its left side.

[David_K]

You should be able to press and hold the touch bar until “turn off” appears on the screen. Slide the touch bar to highlight turn off and then tap the touch bar to select.

[CoolingWizard]

You did not indicate what model nest thermostat you have, if you have an older version you have to make sure you install a software update in order for it to be able to recognize the power connector.

Ken, The AC Cooling Wizard

[StephSkis]

Four thermostats for one furnace/home?  If so, I'm in a similar issue - I have a one furnace home with two thermostats - one for downstairs and one for upstairs.  When installing my Downstairs (main) Nest thermostat, the C wire was not powered. I was told to get a Power Connector.  I had already explained to the three reps that I had spoken with my system - one furnace, two thermostats. Those three assured me it would work. 
Today, I went to install the power connector with Google phone assistance and this rep tells me that the second thermostat will NOT work contrary to the three prior reps (one confirming that my system was compatible, one with initial setup and then a follow-up call).  So, now I'm waiting for a supervisor to call me back.  
So, now I'm curious ... will one power connector work with the two thermostats connected to one furnace control board?

[CoolingWizard]

@StephSkis 

The typical HVAC thermostat simply controls the connection of incoming power to be sent back on different signal cables.  A smart thermostat is basically and small computer with a processor.  The processor makes decisions and takes action. Like all computers , it requires power.  The HVAC Unitary systems use 24Volts of AC power to operate the control system. Some heating systems do not use that type of power.  they are two wire control for a gas valve, and the thermostat connects R to W and that allows the approximately 700 milliamps of power to return to the gas valve causing it to open.  

To answer your question I need more information.
1. what type of HVAC system do you have? Gas w/Forced Air? Hydronic Boiler with radiators? 
2. Can you upload pictures of your two old thermostats showing the wiring connections?

Ken, The AC Cooling Wizard

[aatienza]

Hey there,

Checking in — we hope you've got the answer you're looking for. Let us know if you have more questions in mind.
 

I appreciate the help, davidking and CoolingWizard.

Thanks,

Archie

[aatienza]

Hey there,

I just wanted to follow up to see if you still need our help. Please let us know as we would be happy to answer any questions you may have. 
 

Thanks,

Archie

[StephSkis]

I have a gas with forced air system.  One unit that services basement, first floor and second floor.  There is a thermostat on the each floor.  How do I upload pics into here?  

[StephSkis]

[StephSkis]

Do you need any more information?

[Jenelyn_O]

Hi there,

I saw your post and wanted to chime in — I'm sorry for the delay. I just want to follow up if you're still encountering the issue. Please let me know as I'll be willing to assist you from here. 

Best,

Jenelyn

[Jenelyn_O]

Hi there,

I wanted to follow up and see if you still need help. Please let me know if you’re still having any concerns or questions from here, as I would be happy to take a closer look and assist you further.

Best,

Jenelyn

[StephSkis]

Hi Jenelyn, I got it worked out!  Turns out the “blue” wire wasn’t connected at the furnace. Once I connected it, both thermostats worked just fine without the power connector. So, a Nest system does work in a one furnace zone system without issue. I have two nests that operate independently of each other on the one furnace. 

[Jenelyn_O]

Hey StephSkis,

Woohoo! I'm glad to hear that your issue is already fixed and thanks for the update. If you have any other concerns or questions, please let me know otherwise, I'm going to lock this thread after 24 hours.

Best,

Jenelyn