Nest Protect Smoke/CO Alarm Not Connecting or Testing

Nest Protect offers advanced smoke and CO detection with smart home integration. This guide covers issues.

Protect Not Setting Up

1. Use Google Home app (migrated from Nest app)
2. Protect requires 2.4GHz WiFi
3. Press button to start setup
4. Scan QR code on device
5. Follow app prompts

Wired vs Battery

1. Wired: Interconnect with other alarms
2. Battery: Standalone or WiFi interconnect
3. Both have 10-year sensor life
4. Wired has battery backup
5. Replace unit when sensor expires

Not Sending Alerts

1. Check app notification permissions
2. Verify Protect shows online in app
3. Test using Nest app test feature
4. Check phone Do Not Disturb settings
5. Critical alerts should bypass DND

Pathlight Feature

1. Motion-activated night light
2. Lights path when dark
3. Configure brightness in app
4. Can be disabled if unwanted
5. Green ring shows all-clear status

Self-Test and Sound Check

1. Automatic nightly self-test
2. Monthly sound check via app
3. Tests sensors without loud alarm
4. Reports issues in app
5. Manual test: Press and hold button

Home Assistant Integration

1. Nest integration via Google account
2. Requires Google Device Access setup
3. Limited functionality vs native app
4. Smoke/CO status as binary sensors
5. Battery level available