Create Google Nest Routine To Protect AC From Low Outside Temps

[bonansinga]

I have 2 Google Nest Thermostats with 1 internal sensor each for hot spots. All is working fine for 2 zone air conditioning.

We know that AC units can be damaged if the outside temprature goes below 65F. Even if the inside temp is warmer than that.  In my location and with my home, in the spring and fall it can be 85F during the day, and drop below 65F in a few hours.

My house retains heat, so inside temp can still be high-ish at those times.  Putting those very expensive systems at risk. (And yes, my systems are sized properly for the house).

The meatspace solution is to manually turn off the AC units when temp goes below 65F. I'd love to automate that.

So, can this be accomplished and scripted with a sensor placed outside?

Question 1: My use case:
1) 1 sensor outside (In a covered weatherproof area). Added to the account.
2) Program both zone's Nests so that when (1) detects the outside temp is <= 65F they will either turn off completely, or run the fan, (I haven't decided yet.  (I realize this might be 2 scripts.. 1 for each zone..fine with that so long as each can ping the external sensor)
3) the reverse of 2, if the outside temp goes > 65F then cool to my preset temp.

Question 2:
1) Can a target temp be set in a scipt?

Please answer my specific questions, support. Thank you. I am quite aware that the thermos themselves can only read temperature inside - which is why I'd like to try an outside sensor to measure.

Thank you in advance!

[AndersC]

Hi @bonansinga,

Thank you for posting in the community. I understand you'd like to create a routine to protect your AC from low outside temperatures. Since AC units can be damaged if the outside temperature goes below 65°F, the solution is to manually turn them off when the temperature drops. I'm happy to assist you.

Since there's no specific support to create scripts or coding automation programs, you can visit the article Advanced home automations to learn how to create and write scripted automations with the script editor.

Creating a routine to protect AC from low outside temps sounds very useful, considering your needs and the needs of all Nest users. We're always looking for ways to improve, and we appreciate your feedback.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Regards,

Anders