Inconsistent power with Nest power connector

[GrantF]

I installed a Nest thermostat for my garage unit heater a few weeks ago using a Nest Power Connector. Everything has been working fine but this morning I received a message that the thermostat has been receiving inconsistent power.  Could there be an issue with the power connector? Of course this happens when I am a couple thousand miles away. So won’t be able to check it out until I return.

[Markjosephp]

Hi GrantF,

It sounds like you're experiencing some issues with your Nest Thermostat and the power connector for your garage unit heater. The message about inconsistent power could indeed indicate a problem with the power connector or the electrical supply to your thermostat.

While you're not able to physically inspect the setup, here are a few things to consider:

• Make sure all the connections between the Nest Thermostat and the power connector are secure. Sometimes, a loose connection can lead to power inconsistencies.
• Ensure that the power source for the Nest Thermostat and power connector are stable. If there are any fluctuations or interruptions in power, it could trigger the inconsistent power message.
• If possible, see if you can remotely access any information or diagnostics through the Nest app, such as any message codes or reports. This might provide additional details about the issue.
• If the problem persists, you may need someone local to check the setup in person. Reach out to a friend, neighbor, or professional in your area who can inspect the system while you're away.

Let us know how it goes.

Best regards,
Mark

[GrantF]

Thanks Mark. I will definitely be checking those things when I return. I don’t see anywhere on the app to check error/fault codes, but it appears that everything is still functioning. I have not received any further messages.

i have also installed one of these for the main floor of  my home, but no power connector required there, and no issues so far. Intend to install one for the lower level as well.

[Markjosephp]

Hi GrantF,

Thank you for the update. It's great to hear that everything seems to be functioning well, and I'm glad there haven't been any further issues.

Planning to install one at the lower level sounds like a proactive step. If you ever encounter any challenges or have questions during the process, feel free to reach out.

Cheers,
Mark

[GrantF]

Still issues with both of these.  Both showing “battery very low” message today. Both are receiving 26-27V AC. Device info on both shows the same “Battery very low” message and “Battery voltage: 3.3V” Garage unit shows “Power Connector: connected “

Removing the batteries and testing them together also gives 3.2-3.3V .

Re-installed the same batteries and replaced the thermostats on their bases. Battery state of both is now “OK” and “3.2V”??

A search on here indicates that this is a common issue.

 

 

[Markjosephp]

Hey there,

I appreciate your observation. Please make sure that your Nest Thermostat's software versions are up-to-date right after the Nest Power Connector's installation. Then, gather the power readouts in the Equipment settings on your thermostat device itself.

Keep me posted.

Best,
Mark

[GrantF]

Software is up to date. I noticed that the C wire was not configured on the house stat. It was connected though with voltage showing as 36V on the device.  Not sure if this would cause the issue. 

The garage stat(2 wire with power connector) display shows unconfigured wire *OB?? The 2 wires are connected to R and W. Voltage shows 30-32V.  It is configured as gas/forced air.

[Markjosephp]

Hi GrantF,

Thank you for providing additional details about the thermostat configurations. It's great that you've already ensured the software is up-to-date. Regarding the house thermostat, if the C wire is physically connected but not configured on the device, it might indeed cause issues with the power supply. Make sure to configure the C wire properly in the thermostat settings to ensure a stable power connection.

For the garage thermostat, the unconfigured wire display (*OB) and the 2-wire setup (R and W) may be indicating a potential issue with the thermostat's recognition of the wires or the configuration. Try restarting it or updating the wiring in the Google Home app itself. 

Let me know how it goes.

Best,
Mark

[GrantF]

Will do. Thanks.

[Markjosephp]

Hello again,

It sounds like a plan! Let us know if that helps. I would be glad to know what the result would be.

Thanks,

Mark