re: Nest Thermostats and Protect systems

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problem solved (i've done like 8 of these so i can tell you more than likely your 'c' wire is there but pigtailed to the thermostat wire insulation and not connected at the other end to the HVAC)

if that's the case, its about a 5 second job (once you locate the circuit board) to attach the 'c' wire at the furnace or if its all-in-one, open the panel outside and connect it.

if its literally not there at all (common with older systems), this $25 wonder will take that 5 second job and turn it into about a 2 minute job.

venstar add-a-wire

Bonus: you need the c wire for NEST as well so if you don't have one, you will need this kit regardless of whether you buy a honeywell or nest. the simple explanation is that it needs to have constant power because it has to respond via wifi to your cell phone when you want to control it.

a battery would work but its a bigger hassle when it starts going out and you bang your head against the wall because your shitty thermostat isn't working right.

honeywell and nest said 'frick that' and make you wire it the right way so you won't have that problem.

and yes, they both (at least honeywell) have a battery backup for short power outages as well.

I actually have an extra one I'd sell to an OTer for $20 or you can follow that link above and get one for around $25.

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I did use a wire that was pigtailed but not connected already. Sorry, I should have been more clear to that point.

When I opened the panel to my unit, there literally was no circuit board or harness at all. I had to find the transformer and connect one of my unused Tstat wires to the 24v side. This was surprising to me bc my home was built in 2004.

Forgive me if my terminology is incorrect...