Repair Basic Issues with Your Nest Smart Thermostat

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction: Smart Thermostat: Basic Troubleshooting

While our homes become increasingly more connected with new Smart Devices, we run into an increasing number of issues. At times our Smart Thermostats won't connect to the app or the device itself will not turn on.

2. Smart Thermostat: Cannot Connect

Many issues with Smart Thermostat connections can be caused by your Wi-Fi network.

  1. Check that your router is on and your Wi-Fi network is stable. There may be an issue with your internet connection or you may need to restart your router.
  2. Check that you have the correct connection settings. The network name (SSID) and password have to be exact.
    If your router is provided by your ISP, you can find your SSID on the bottom of the router.
Back of a netgear router showing the SSID


  1. Otherwise, you can find your SSID in your router settings.
A router GUI with the Wi-Fi name highlighted


  1. You can even find it easily in Windows.
The windows network popup showing the network selected


  1. Some Smart Thermostats connect to a server. You can access the server status from the manufacturer's website.
  2. If your Smart Thermostat still cannot connect, try restarting it. Refer to your user manual on how to restart your device.
  3. Finally, if you still cannot connect to your network you will need to reset your Smart Thermostat's Wi-Fi settings. Refer to your user manual on how to reset your settings.

3. What's next?

4. Smart Thermostat: Will Not Turn On

  1. One of the first things to check in a Smart Thermostat that will not turn on is the battery. Refer to your user manual and replace the battery in your device.
  2. If the battery is in working condition, the power may not be on to the thermostat. Refer to your circuit breaker and ensure that the power is switched on.
  3. Some Smart Thermostats can be powered on using a USB cable.
    Remove the device from its base and plug in the USB cable.
The back of a nest device showing the USB cable and slot



  1. Plug the other end of the USB into a charger or your computer.
A laptop and a usb plug


  1. The display should then turn on.

  2. If your device still does not power on, a wire may be loose or incorrectly connected.
    We recommend using a professional service when working with the wiring.

5. What's next?