Compressor heads-up lets you know when your Google Nest thermostat has detected a problem with your heat pump or air conditioning system. If your thermostat detects a problem, you’ll get the alert on the device, in the app, and through notifications, if enabled. From there, you can check your system or contact a pro for other issues (including HVAC).
If you get this alert, your compressor may not be functioning due to a safety feature (like automatic lockout to prevent overheating or mechanical failure) or a failed component such as the compressor motor and startup capacitor. Your system might also be operating in the wrong mode, either due to a wire configuration issue between the thermostat and HVAC, or, for a heat pump, a stuck reversing valve. All of these situations can mean your system blows air of the wrong temperature into your home - either because it’s in the wrong mode or there’s air of the wrong temperature built up in the air ducts.
Compressor heads-up detects when the temperature is moving in the wrong direction, checks if a temporary shutoff will fix the problem, and then alerts you if there is an issue.
If your thermostat detects a pattern of unexpected temperature changes during operation, the app and thermostat displays one of these messages:
- “A/C not cooling. There’s an issue with your compressor“
- “Heat pump not heating. There’s an issue with your compressor.“
When you get the Compressor heads-up alert on your thermostat, you can turn the thermostat ring to dismiss the alert.
For heat pumps, a common issue is a stuck reversing valve or a misconfigured O/B wire. This can cause the system to blow air of the wrong temperature. Learn how to troubleshoot when heating and cooling are reversed.
You also see an option to contact a pro to service your system.
Compressor heads-up notifications in the Home app require your home to have a working internet service and Wi-Fi connection to your Nest thermostat. The notifications are relayed over the internet and can only work if the internet and Wi-Fi in your home are working. So if your Wi-Fi network goes down, it could adversely affect the availability of Compressor heads-up.
Compressor heads-up misses some problems. Never rely on it as your sole system check. These notifications aren’t intended to be a substitute for regular system service by an HVAC professional.