CNET First Look Purchase
I've had my Nest for a while now. I'll start off with the bad: I'm sure there are other thermostats out there for about half the cost that do 90% of the functionality. Does that make the Nest bad? Absolutely not. My preference is for elegant solutions. A case could be made that's why I own an iPod, Mac, etc. I know I hadn't modified my previous programmable thermostat in over ten years. Sure, I did the occasional "add'l heat" , "add'l cool" or away. I didn't change the M-F and S, S settings.
Here's what I like about the Nest: (1) Looks good on the wall. (2) Intelligent design - things like sensors turn it on when you approach it (3) self charging battery in unit (4) Easy programmability (5) wifi/internet access and app (6) Energy usage (7) Energy usage comparison e-mails, and (8) the feeling there's more to come.
The unit has saved me energy. Seeing my energy usage so plainly has made me adjust temperatures. I had 31 leafs last month (which indicates I'm a top Nest user based on outside temperatures and energy usage!) I'm not one to suffer in uncomfortable temps, and I can say I really haven't noticed a difference. I regularly use the app to switch the unit to "Away" depending on my schedule. For example, on 100 degree days that I know I'm working late and going to the gym, I'd remotely turn the unit to "Away". I turn the unit back to "home" as I leave the gym, making the house comfortable when I arrive back.
I also like the ability to whip out the iPad and check the house temperature. Sometimes I just need to know it will be 78 degrees in 30 minutes. Sometimes I need to adjust matters. Either way, I'm not going to check the thermostat to do it.
I have no doubt the unit will eventually pay for itself. I'm hesitant to say it will be a short payback (or another unit wouldn't be faster.) Then again, I converted to a tankless hot water heater, too. Payback is a lot longer on that, but I would make that decision again in a heartbeat.
As another person wrote: Love mine. Works great. Glad I purchased it. Would do so again.