How Much Does It Cost to Install a Google Nest Learning Thermostat?

By Melanie Dawn

June 24, 2023

If you own any smart home devices, you know what a game-changer they can be for nearly any task. The same can be said for the Google Nest Learning thermostat. Smart thermostats make your home more energy-efficient and can save you around 8% on your total energy bill. You can adjust the temperature of your home from anywhere with an internet connection and receive readouts of your energy use. If you’re considering a smart thermostat and wonder how much Google Nest thermostat installation costs, this article can help.

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This guide breaks down everything you need to know, including how a Nest learning thermostat works and whether it’s compatible with your current system.

What Is a Google Nest Learning Thermostat, and How Does It Work?

A Google Nest Learning Thermostat is a Wi-Fi-enabled device for controlling your home’s heating and cooling. It learns your habits, setting it apart from other smart thermostats. After installation, you simply adjust the temperature as usual. The Nest analyzes your changes using built-in sensors and algorithms, eventually creating a schedule and automatically adjusting the temperature. Key features include:

Auto-scheduling. The Nest creates a personalized schedule based on past use.
Temperature assistance. It uses sensors and your phone’s location to detect when you’re home or away and adjusts the temperature accordingly.
Remote control. Using the Google Home app, you can adjust the temperature, change settings and view your energy history from any location.
Energy history reports. The Nest generates reports, so you can monitor your daily energy usage. It also provides tips on how to save.
Automatic display. When you walk into the room, the thermostat lights up, displaying the time, weather and current temperature inside.
Smart home integration. Google Nest works with smart home devices, including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. You can adjust your home’s temperature with voice commands.

What Does the Installation Process Look Like?

Installing a Google Nest is a straightforward process for any DIYer:

Turn off the power. Shut off the main breaker to your home. This prevents electrical shorts and damage to your HVAC system and the new thermostat.
Remove the old thermostat. Remove the faceplate of the old thermostat to expose the backplate and wiring.
Label the wires. Before you disconnect the wires, use the stickers provided in your Google Nest box. Disconnect them one by one as you add the labels, and unscrew the old backplate from the wall.
Install the base. Mount the new Nest base using the provided screws.
Connect the wires. Install the labeled wires into the corresponding terminals on the Nest base.
Attach the display. Click the display into place on the base.
Flip the breaker. Switch the main power breaker back on.
Set up and configuration. Follow the setup process on the display. Connect your Wi-Fi and answer a few questions about your home heating and cooling system. Link the Nest device to your Google Home app.

What Are the Requirements for Installation?

The Google Nest Learning thermostat is compatible with most home heating and cooling systems. Like all thermostats, it has a few requirements:

Compatible HVAC systems. The Nest works best with low-voltage systems. Google’s online thermostat compatibility checker can confirm whether your current system will work. You can also contact Google Nest support.
Recommended C-wire. Connecting to a C-wire ensures your Nest receives a constant power supply for optimal performance.
Internet connection. To access the smart features, you’ll need to connect your thermostat to a home wireless network.
A smartphone or tablet. To access the Google Home app, you’ll need an Android or IOS smartphone or tablet.

Can I Install One Even If I Have an Older Furnace?

Google Nest is designed to work with most HVAC systems, regardless of age. However, you may need to upgrade some of the wiring in your home. High-voltage systems, such as baseboard heaters and radiant floor heaters, usually aren't compatible. Be sure to run the compatibility checker online before making a purchase.

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How Much Does It Cost to Install a Smart Nest Thermostat?

The cost of installing a Nest Learning Thermostat depends on whether you have the device professionally installed. The Nest costs $279.99 (CAD 394) on the Google website. Expect to pay between $200 and $500 (CAD 281 and CAD 702) for a professional installation. The cost of installation includes materials and labor, which vary depending on location.

Electricians typically charge $50 to $130 (CAD 70 to CAD 183) per hour for any work done. HVAC technicians charge between $75 and $150 (CAD 105 and CAD 211) per hour, while a personal handyman may charge around $50 to $80 (CAD 70 to CAD 112) per hour.

If you have experience working with basic wiring, you may prefer to install the thermostat yourself. The total cost of installation would be the purchase price.

What Are the Nest Thermostat Installation Cost Factors?

Several factors can determine the Nest thermostat installation cost:

Type of HVAC system. If you have a standard single-stage heating and cooling system, the installation is simple. If you have a heat pump with a furnace backup or another type of dual-fuel system, the wiring is more complicated, and installation costs will be higher.
C-wire. If you don’t have a C-wire and you’re looking for a more stable connection, you may pay an additional charge. The average cost to install a C-wire is between $90 and $140 (CAD 127 and CAD 197).
Labor costs. The cost of labor varies depending on where you live and who installs the thermostat. Consider getting multiple quotes to help save money. Commercial HVAC technicians also tend to charge more than individuals.
Wall repair. The Nest has a small footprint. If your old thermostat is larger, you may need to pay for wall repairs, which adds to the cost.

How Long Does It Take to Replace the Thermostat?

The average time it takes to replace a thermostat is 30 minutes to 3 hours. For an easy swap, you can expect the process to take less time, especially if you've hired a professional to do the job. If you need new wires or additional troubleshooting, the process can take several hours. Most DIYers can complete a simple thermostat swap in under an hour, provided they have the correct tools for the job.

Do I Need an Electrician to Install a Nest Thermostat?

A Google Nest Learning thermostat operates on a low-voltage circuit, so you generally don't need to hire an electrician. Most HVAC technicians are trained to swap a new thermostat. If you need a C-wire installed, contact an electrician to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. Typically, an electrician is needed when working with high-voltage systems.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.

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