The Nest 4th gen thermostat doesn’t automatically sense when you're away and set ECO mode

[JerryG1]

Our prior Nest 3rd generation thermostat would detect when nobody was in the house and automatically enable ECO mode. When we'd return and walk in front on the thermostat, it automatically disabled ECO mode and use whatever scheduled temperature was set. 

With the latest 4th gen Nest thermostat, this doesn't work. The thermostat does sense a person since the option to show weather appears on the screen when we walk in front of it. So, it's sensing movement. The problem is that when no movement is detected for a period of time, it doesn't automatically set ECO mode. Yes, I've ensured through the Google Home app that Eco mode is enabled for the Away automation. 

The only workaround I've found is to either announce "Everyone's away" when we leave (of set Away in the Home app) and announce "Someone's home" (or turn the thermostat dial, or set Home in the Home app) when we return. However, we'll not always remember to do this and waste energy when we're away.

Why does the automatic sensing of no people present no longer automatically enable ECO mode?

[maedacortez]

Hi JerryG1,

Thanks for reaching out. I understand that the Eco mode isn't working correctly. I know this can be frustrating, but don't worry, I'm here to help!

Please let me know if you've already activated the "Home/Away" function with the correct next steps on the Google Home app:

1. Open the Google Home app.
2. At the bottom, tap Automations.
3. on Household Routines > tap away > tap add actions.
4. Select Your Thermostat > turn on automatically adjust the temperature > finally add action.

I will be waiting for your response.

Regards,

Manuel

[JerryG1]

Yep - I've done this.

[maedacortez]

Hi JerryG1,

Thanks for confirming. I recommend you check if you have active the home location. The function helps to determine when you are at home or not Please follow the next steps:

1. Open the Google Home app, tap the thermostat, and tap Settings.
2. Presence sensing.
3. Finally, allow this home to use phone locations.

I hope this helps!

Regards,

Manuel