Article Summary:
You can install your Nest Protect (Battery) in just a few minutes with what’s in the box and a screwdriver.
Before you start
There are several things to consider prior to installing Nest Protect in your home: Even if you’re simply replacing an old alarm, read through the articles below to determine if you have the right number of alarms for the size of your home and if they’re installed in the best location in each room.
Nest Protect is a connected smoke and carbon monoxide detector, so it will save you time to set them all up at the same time, then proceed with installation in each room.
Where in the room should I install my Nest Protect?
Which rooms in my home need a Nest Protect?
To get an overview of the installation process for both Nest Protect (Battery) and Nest Protect (Wired 120V) watch the video below.
If you need more help, there are detailed instructions provided in the User’s Guide that was included with your Nest Protect box. Professional installation is also available. Click here to find a Nest Pro installer near you.
Installing Nest Protect (Battery)
You might want to keep the dust cover in case you decide to paint or renovate in the future. This will protect the Nest Protect (Battery) sensors from getting scratched or damaged during a remodel.
If you already have the Nest app installed on your smartphone or tablet, you should make sure that it has been updated to the most recent version before attempting to set up your Nest Protect.
How do I connect my Nest Protect to Wi-Fi and my Nest Account?
Where in the room should I install my Nest Protect?
Which rooms in my home need a Nest Protect?
First, mark where the screws will go using the backplate as a guide. If you are putting Nest Protect on the ceiling, make sure it is at least 4 inches (10 cm) away from the wall where you are installing it.
You can use two or all four of the mounting screws included in the box to attach your Nest Protect (Battery) to the wall or ceiling. Before you mount the Nest Protect, make sure the Nest logo is upright and facing out.
1) Remove the dust cover from Nest Protect (Battery)
2) Get the Nest app
The Nest app will guide you through creating a free Nest account, pairing your Nest Protect securely, telling Nest Protect which room it’s in, and connecting your Nest Protect to your home Wi-Fi network.
3) Set up Nest Protect (Battery)
Once the Nest app is installed, you can start the process of setting up your Nest Protect (Battery). Detailed instructions for how to do this are in the article below.
4) Remove your old alarm
Take your old alarm off the wall or ceiling. Make sure to remove the existing backplate and any hardware that you may have installed.
5) Install the Nest Protect backplate
We recommend installing your Nest Protect on the ceiling. If the ceiling is not an option, you can also install it on the wall.
6) Mount your Nest Protect (Battery)
First, line up Nest Protect with the backplate. Second, give it a slight twist clockwise. It will click into place. Make sure the Nest logo is upright and facing out.
7) Test your Nest Protect
If this is the only Nest Protect you’re installing, test your Nest Protect (Battery) by pressing the Nest button twice. Before sounding the alarm, Nest Protect will give you a countdown so that you have time to move away from the alarm.
Have more smoke alarms?
Repeat these steps to install additional Nest Protects. The Nest app will help you connect them to Wi-Fi and add them to your Nest Account.
Once all your Nest Protects are installed, test that all of them are wirelessly interconnected by pressing the Nest button twice.
While Nest Protect is performing the test, walk from room to room throughout your home to make sure that all installed Nest Protects are working. Nest Protect will tell you when the test is complete.