nest messages

[shr]

Is there a list of the messages a NEST can display along with an explanation of each? The videos that respond to my questions/searches seem always to start with a Primer on Nest functions but never get to the quirks of the Nest operations. I am left with just guessing . For several months I have my NEST set to heat only with the added instruction to use only the gas furnace and not the heat pump. The Nest follows this instruction very well. Today I wake up, walk to the NEST , turn up the heat casual from 65 to 70. The heat comes on. Very normal. Just by chance about 40 minutes later I am walking past the NEST. It lights up in Orange displaying not only the 70 but a message,"Alternative heat". Where did this message come from? Why is it displaying today? The Nest set to use only the gas furnace. There is no Alternative. Outside the ambient temperature is 40F, nothing special. Now over an hour since I first called for heat, the NEST screen displays 70f without the orange. All is normal. I should be thankful but I am curious. Where did that "Alternative Heat" message come from?

[zoeuvre]

Hi shr, 

Thanks for reaching out to us. The Nest Thermostat displays various messages and notifications to inform users about its operations. The "Alternative heat" message is typically displayed when the primary heating source, such as the gas furnace, is unable to meet the desired temperature or maintain it effectively. The thermostat activates an alternative heat source, such as an electric resistance heat or a heat pump, depending on the HVAC system configuration. This alternative heat source is typically less energy-efficient than the primary heating system, and the "Alternative heat" message indicates that it is using this additional heat source to meet the desired temperature more quickly. The specific behavior of the Nest Thermostat, including when and how it utilizes alternative heat sources, can depend on factors such as thermostat settings, HVAC system configuration, and external temperature conditions.

Let us know if that helps.

Best,

Zoe