Extra Nest sensor Unresponsive to HVAC

[GNC_Richard]

Hi, I had the new Nest fourth generation learning thermostat installed Oct 8.  Have 1 extra sensor.  Went through all the install process with Google home app. Everything OK until about 3 days ago.  Noticed in the Google home app that the extra sensor was giving the message “Unresponsive to HVAC”.  However battery good AND app says it’s connected to Nest thermostat.  Can anyone help with this?  Thanks.

[CoolingWizard]

@GNC_Richard ,

The remote temperature sensor that comes with the Google Nest Learning Thermostat Gen-4 is linked to the thermostat itself. By design you locate that sensor in area away from the wall mounted thermostat to prioritize temperature. For example upstairs in a bedroom.  If you place it in an area that is remote from the HVAC equipment and not enough condoned air reaches the area, the sensor knows the system is on and it’s not being affected. The air. Temperature is not changing where the sensor is located at. in that particular case you’ll get that error code unresponsive to HVAC. 

The Cooling Wizard 

[GNC_Richard]

Hey CWiz…thanks much.  But what meant by “condoned” air?   Also, I do have it in bathroom that is always about 3-5 degrees colder than hallway main thermostat.  The temp does change in that bathroom during the day or if heat comes on of course.  Also , I did not get that error msg for about 1.5 weeks, then it started?!?  

But basically you’re saying it’s OK I guess?  The system DOES still seem to be averaging the two temps, which is the basic purpose.

[GNC_Richard]

Actually - strangely(!)…just checked Google Home app and finally the extra sensor now says “Usually cooler” as it had before the error msg.  Thanks much!

[CoolingWizard]

@GNC_Richard ,

You can use the temperature sensor like you are, averaging, or you can use a schedule and prioritize the bathroom over the Nest thermostat. 

The Cooling Wizard

[GNC_Richard]

Ok CoolWiz will keep that in mind thanks!