How to Change Ownership of Nest Thermostat

Have you recently moved into a new home with a Nest thermostat, gifted one to a family member, or simply decided to transfer ownership to someone else? Changing ownership of a Nest thermostat might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward process. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully transfer or remove a Nest thermostat from your account, ensuring a smooth transition and continued comfortable climate control.

Why You Might Need to Change Ownership

There are several reasons why you might need to change the ownership of a Nest thermostat:

• Moving to a New Home: When selling your home, you’ll want to remove the thermostat from your account so the new homeowners can add it to theirs. Leaving it connected to your account could allow them to control your system remotely and see your heating/cooling patterns.
• Gifting a Thermostat: If you’re gifting a Nest thermostat, you’ll need to remove it from your account so the recipient can set it up with their own credentials.
• Selling a Thermostat: Similar to gifting, selling a used thermostat requires removing it from your account to allow the buyer to use it properly.
• Upgrading Your System: Replacing an existing Nest thermostat with a newer model often involves removing the old one from your account.
• Account Consolidation or Changes: If you’re reorganizing your smart home ecosystem or changing email addresses, you might need to reassign devices to a different account.
• Rental Property Change: As a landlord, when a tenant moves out, you will want to reclaim the thermostat back into your account.

Preparing for the Ownership Transfer

Before you begin the ownership transfer process, take these preparatory steps:

• Gather Necessary Information: Have the Wi-Fi password for the network the thermostat will connect to. This is essential for the new owner to set up the device.
• Take Note of your Nest Aware subscription: If you have a Nest Aware subscription, make sure you understand how the transfer process will affect it. The subscription stays with the “home” in the Nest App, so moving the thermostat to a new home means the new owner would need a new subscription. You should cancel your subscription if you are selling a home with the thermostat installed.
• Back Up Important Data (If Applicable): While Nest thermostats don’t store a lot of critical data, consider noting down your preferred temperature schedules and settings. This will make it easier to replicate your preferences in the new account.
• Inform the New Owner: If you are passing the thermostat to a new owner, inform them you’re about to remove it from your account and that they’ll need to create a Nest account or use their Google account to take ownership.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Nest Thermostat from Your Account

There are two primary methods for removing a Nest thermostat from your account: using the Nest app or directly on the thermostat itself.

Method 1: Using the Nest App (Recommended)

This is the easiest and most reliable method, provided you still have access to your Nest account.

1. Open the Nest App: Launch the Nest app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Select the Thermostat: From the home screen, select the thermostat you want to remove.
3. Access Settings: Tap the “Settings” icon (usually a gear or cogwheel) in the top right corner of the screen.
4. Select “Remove Thermostat”: Scroll down and tap on “Remove thermostat.” It may also say, “Remove from Account” or something similar.
5. Confirm Removal: The app will display a warning message. Read it carefully and confirm your intention to remove the thermostat by tapping “Remove”. The app may ask you to enter your password for security purposes.

Method 2: Using the Thermostat Itself

This method is useful if you no longer have access to the Nest app or your account.

1. Press the Thermostat: Press the Nest thermostat ring to bring up the main menu.
2. Navigate to Settings: Turn the ring to scroll through the menu options until you find “Settings” and press the ring to select it.
3. Select “Reset”: Scroll to the “Reset” option and press the ring.
4. Select “Account”: Scroll to the “Account” option and press the ring.
5. Select “Remove from Account”: Scroll to the “Remove from Account” option and press the ring.
6. Confirm Removal: The thermostat will display a warning message. Press the ring to confirm you want to remove it. You may be asked to enter a confirmation code displayed on the screen in the app. If you do not have access to the app, skip this step by clicking the skip button on the thermostat.

Important Note: After removing the thermostat from your account, it will be reset to its factory default settings. This means all your personalized settings, schedules, and temperature preferences will be erased.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Nest Thermostat to a New Account

Once the thermostat has been removed from the previous account, the new owner can add it to their account.

1. Download and Install the Nest App: The new owner should download and install the Nest app on their smartphone or tablet.
2. Create a Nest Account or Sign in with Google: If the new owner doesn’t have a Nest account, they can create one using their email address. Alternatively, they can sign in using their Google account (the preferred and more secure method).
3. Add the Thermostat: In the Nest app, tap the “+” icon to add a new device. Select “Nest Thermostat” from the list of devices.
4. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The app will guide the new owner through the setup process. This typically involves scanning a QR code on the thermostat or manually entering the device’s serial number.
5. Connect to Wi-Fi: The app will prompt the new owner to connect the thermostat to their Wi-Fi network. They’ll need to enter the Wi-Fi password.
6. Name the Thermostat: Choose a descriptive name for the thermostat (e.g., “Living Room Thermostat,” “Upstairs Thermostat”).
7. Set Preferences: Customize the thermostat’s settings, including temperature preferences, schedules, and learning behavior.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common issues you might encounter during the ownership transfer process and how to resolve them:

• Thermostat Not Found: If the app can’t find the thermostat during setup, ensure it’s properly powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your smartphone or tablet. Restart the thermostat and try again.

• Solution: Reset the thermostat and try again.
• Wi-Fi Connection Problems: If the thermostat can’t connect to Wi-Fi, double-check the Wi-Fi password and ensure the network is working properly. Move the thermostat closer to the router to improve the signal strength.
• Thermostat Still Linked to Previous Account: If the thermostat is still linked to the previous owner’s account, the previous owner must remove it from their account using the steps outlined earlier.
• Error Message “Thermostat Already in Use”: This means that the thermostat is still tied to the previous account. The new owner must contact the previous owner to remove the thermostat.
• Error Message “Nest account can’t be created”: This means the Nest account’s email you are trying to create already has a Nest account. Try using a different email address.

Understanding Factory Reset

A factory reset completely erases all data and settings from the Nest thermostat, returning it to its original, out-of-the-box state. This is a more drastic measure than simply removing the thermostat from your account.

When to Perform a Factory Reset:

• Troubleshooting Persistent Issues: If you’re experiencing recurring problems with the thermostat that can’t be resolved through other means, a factory reset might help.
• Preparing for Sale or Disposal: Before selling or disposing of the thermostat, a factory reset ensures that your personal information is completely erased.
• If you don’t know the email address for the account: If you do not know the previous account’s email address, and you cannot remove it from the App, Factory reset is the only option.

How to Perform a Factory Reset:

1. Press the Thermostat: Press the Nest thermostat ring to bring up the main menu.
2. Navigate to Settings: Turn the ring to scroll through the menu options until you find “Settings” and press the ring to select it.
3. Select “Reset”: Scroll to the “Reset” option and press the ring.
4. Select “All Settings”: Scroll to the “All Settings” option and press the ring.
5. Confirm Reset: The thermostat will display a warning message. Press the ring to confirm you want to perform a factory reset. This process may take a few minutes.

Caution: Performing a factory reset will erase all your settings and data. Only do this if necessary.

Security Considerations

Security is paramount when dealing with smart home devices. Here are some best practices:

• Use Strong Passwords: When creating a Nest account or using your Google account, use a strong, unique password that’s difficult to guess.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on your Google account for an extra layer of security. This requires a code from your phone or another device to log in, even if someone has your password.
• Keep Your App Updated: Regularly update the Nest app to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
• Review Device Permissions: Periodically review the permissions granted to the Nest app on your smartphone or tablet. Revoke any permissions that seem unnecessary.
• Be Aware of Phishing Scams: Be cautious of emails or phone calls claiming to be from Nest or Google asking for your account information. Always verify the sender’s legitimacy before providing any personal details.
• Keep the thermostat software up-to-date. The nest software should be kept up-to-date to keep the software secure.

When to Call a Professional

While many aspects of Nest thermostat ownership transfer can be handled independently, certain situations warrant professional assistance:

• Wiring Issues: If you encounter any wiring problems during installation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with electrical work, consult a qualified electrician. Incorrect wiring can damage the thermostat or your HVAC system.
• HVAC System Compatibility Problems: If the Nest thermostat is not compatible with your HVAC system, a professional HVAC technician can assess the situation and recommend solutions.
• Complex Installations: If you’re installing the thermostat in a home with a complex HVAC system, such as a multi-zone system, it’s best to hire a professional installer.
• Persistent Troubleshooting Issues: If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and still can’t resolve the issues, a Nest Pro or HVAC technician can diagnose the problem and provide expert assistance.
• Cost of Professional Installation: Professional Nest thermostat installation typically costs between \$100 and \$300, depending on the complexity of the job and the location.

Nest Aware Subscription

If you had a Nest Aware subscription tied to your “home” in the Nest App, be aware that moving the Nest thermostat to another home, such as selling your home, means that Nest Aware plan is going with it.

The thermostat is attached to the Nest Aware subcription’s “Home”. It is more appropriate to cancel your subscription prior to selling a home.

If you had a Nest Aware subscription, inform the new owner that they will need to purchase their own subscription if they want to use Nest Aware functionality.

Conclusion

Changing ownership of a Nest thermostat is a manageable task that can be accomplished by following the steps outlined in this guide. Remember to prepare thoroughly, carefully remove the thermostat from the old account, and guide the new owner through the setup process. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a qualified electrician or HVAC technician. By prioritizing security and following best practices, you can ensure a smooth and secure ownership transfer, allowing the new owner to enjoy the benefits of a smart, energy-efficient thermostat. Good luck!