How to add a Nest thermostat to Google Home

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To add a Nest thermostat to Google Home, open the Google Home app, tap on the '+' icon, select 'Set up device', and follow the prompts to link your Nest account. Ensure your thermostat is online and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Google Home device.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the process of adding a Nest thermostat to Google Home, ensure you have the following:
  • •A compatible Nest thermostat (e.g., Nest Learning Thermostat, Nest Thermostat E).
  • •A smartphone or tablet with the Google Home app installed (available on iOS and Android).
  • •A Google account to link with the Nest account.
  • •Stable Wi-Fi connection (2.4GHz or 5GHz) for both the thermostat and Google Home device.
  • •Nest thermostat must be set up and connected to Wi-Fi using the Nest app.

Method 1: Using the Google Home App

This is the primary method for adding your Nest thermostat to Google Home. Use this method when you have the app installed and your devices are ready.
  • •Step 1: Open the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the '+' icon located in the top left corner of the home screen.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Set up device' from the menu options.
  • •Step 4: Choose 'Works with Google' to link your Nest account.
  • •Step 5: Scroll through the list or search for 'Nest' and select it.
  • •Step 6: Sign in to your Nest account using your credentials.
  • •Step 7: Follow the prompts to grant permissions and link your devices.
  • •Step 8: Once linked, you should see a confirmation message. Tap 'Done' to finish.
  • •Step 9: To verify, ask Google Assistant, 'What’s the temperature?' to check if it responds correctly.

For Windows 11

If you are using the Google Home app on Windows 11 via an emulator:
  • •Ensure your emulator is configured to access the Google Play Store.
  • •Follow the same steps as listed for the mobile app.

For Windows 10

If you are using the Google Home app on Windows 10 via an emulator:
  • •Install an Android emulator like BlueStacks.
  • •Open the emulator and download the Google Home app from the Play Store.
  • •Follow the same steps as listed for the mobile app.

Method 2: Using the Nest App

Use this method if you prefer to set up your thermostat through the Nest app before linking it to Google Home.
  • •Step 1: Open the Nest app on your smartphone or tablet.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the thermostat you wish to add.
  • •Step 3: Go to Settings (gear icon) and select 'Home info'.
  • •Step 4: Ensure your thermostat is connected to Wi-Fi.
  • •Step 5: Open the Google Home app and repeat the steps from Method 1 to link your Nest account.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while adding your Nest thermostat, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Could not connect to Nest' - Solution: Ensure your thermostat is online and connected to Wi-Fi. Restart the thermostat if necessary.
  • •Issue: 'Invalid credentials' - Fix: Double-check your Nest account username and password. Reset your password if needed.
  • •Problem: 'Device not found' - Workaround: Ensure your Google Home app is updated and both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these power user tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + R (Windows) - Refresh the Google Home app.
  • •Command line: 'Hey Google, set the thermostat to 72 degrees' - Direct voice command for quick adjustments.
  • •Hidden feature: Routines - Set up routines in the Google Home app to automate temperature changes based on your schedule.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, always ensure your devices are updated and connected to the same network.