Get a free Nest thermostat if yours doesn’t work properly


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If your Nest thermostat can’t (or can’t) connect to Wi-Fi, Google will send you a replacement for free.

For months, Nest users reported seeing a “w5 error” when trying to connect their devices to a Wi-Fi network, a requirement for being able to control the thermostat remotely. And since the real benefit of a smart thermostat is the ability to adjust (and adjust) the heat or air conditioning in your office, car, or bed, this mistake makes your device virtually useless.

According to a statement sent to the Android policeGoogle will replace your faulty Nest at no charge if troubleshooting does not resolve the error. To request a replacement, you will need to contact Google customer service.

(Google spokesperson said users will be asked to contact a support representative through the troubleshooting process, but you can contact Nest customer service directly on your website or through Facebook Messenger.)

How to fix a w5 error

Before you can request a free replacement from Nest, you must use Google Troubleshooting Guide. The w5 error appears in the Nest itself, not in your application, so you must go directly to the device.

To check if your device has been affected, press the thermostat ring to bring up the Quick View menu and select Settings> Network. If you see the message “Error – nest.com/w5” continue with the next troubleshooting steps.

First, try restarting your device. You will find this option in Settings> Reset> Reset. Then repeat the above process to check if the error still exists.

If so, you may need to update the software. Go Settings> Software. If an update is available, select To update. Once your thermostat is updated, double check the error.

If it persists, contact Google Customer Support to request your free replacement.

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