How to Install Google Nest Floodlight

Are you looking for an easy way to enhance your home’s security? Installing a smart floodlight camera like the Google Nest Floodlight is a great option. With its built-in camera, motion sensors, bright LED lights, and integration with the Google Home app, the Nest Floodlight can help deter intruders and give you peace of mind.

In this comprehensive DIY guide, we’ll walk you through the entire installation process, step-by-step. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right location to setting up the camera in the app. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Choose the Installation Location

The first step is deciding where you want to mount your Nest Floodlight. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The floodlight needs to be plugged into a power source, so install near an outdoor electrical outlet if possible.
• Pick an area with a clear field of view where the motion sensor can easily detect activity.
• Avoid pointing the floodlight directly at windows or public streets. The brightness could disturb neighbors.
• Install at typical intruder height around 7-9 feet high, out of easy reach.
• Ensure it’s a flat vertical surface so the mounting bracket can attach securely.

Here are some ideal locations to install a Nest Floodlight:

• Above the garage door
• Next to the front or back door
• Corner of the home overlooking the yard
• Backyard/driveway

Make sure you can stand comfortably in the chosen area for installation. Now let’s look at what’s included and tools you’ll need.

Items Included	Additional Tools Needed
Nest Floodlight camera Mounting bracket Mounting screws Power adapter	Philips screwdriver  Hex key or Allen wrench Stud finder Power drill Level

Step 2: Assemble the Mounting Bracket

The Nest Floodlight comes with a mounting bracket that needs to be constructed before installing onto the wall.

Here are the steps to assemble the bracket:

1. Lay out all the bracket pieces included in the box. You should have two long arms, one short arm, two small screws, and a backplate.
2. Take one of the long arms and attach it to the backplate using the provided screws and a Philips screwdriver. The arm can pivot up and down.
3. Attach the second long arm to the opposite side of the backplate in the same way.
4. Next, take the short arm and attach it between the two long arms using more screws.
5. Adjust the arms so they can extend out from the backplate and support the floodlight.
6. Make sure all screws are tightened securely. The bracket assembly is now complete.

The assembled mounting bracket should look like a letter “E” that can grip onto the floodlight camera once installed.

Now we can move onto preparing the installation area.

Step 3: Prepare the Installation Area

With the spot chosen and the bracket assembled, now you need to make sure the location is ready for installation. Follow these tips:

• Use a stud finder to locate studs. The mount will need to be anchored into studs for the most secure hold. Studs are often 16 inches apart.
• If installing over vinyl siding, purchase longer screws to penetrate through to the studs.
• Make sure the power drill is charged and you have the right drill bits for screws.
• Use painter’s tape or masking tape to map out the exact drill locations once studs are found.
• Clean the spot thoroughly so the bracket adheres evenly.

You’ll drill three pilot holes total – two to mount the bracket onto studs near the top and bottom, and one in the center for routing the power cable.

Speaking of power, let’s go over the floodlight wiring next.

Step 4: Understanding the Floodlight Wiring

The Nest Floodlight comes with an attached 6-foot power cable you’ll need to connect to an outdoor electrical outlet. There are a few options for providing power depending on your specific situation.

Option 1: Use an Existing Outdoor Outlet

If you already have an outdoor receptacle within 6 feet of the installation location, this is the easiest option. You’ll simply plug the floodlight cable directly into the outlet once mounted. Just make sure the outlet is a grounded three-prong outlet for safety.

Option 2: Install New Junction Box

If no outdoor outlet exists nearby, you’ll need to have a certified electrician install a new outdoor junction box specifically for the floodlight. Run the power cable conduit from the new junction box through the wall to the floodlight bracket. This provides a hidden power source.

Option 3: Use Outdoor Outlet Adapter

Another option is using an outdoor outlet adapter that converts one outlet into two. Mount the adapter next to the existing outdoor outlet, then plug the floodlight into the new secondary outlet. Just make sure not to overload the circuit.

Option 4: Use Outdoor Power Extension Cord

You can also use a durable, outdoor-rated power extension cord to connect the Nest Floodlight to an indoor or distant outdoor outlet. Use a heavy-duty cord that can handle high wattage. Bury or hide the cord for clean installation.

Now that you understand the power options, let’s mount the bracket.

Step 5: Mount the Bracket onto the Wall

Once you’ve identified studs, marked pilot holes, and decided on the power supply, it’s time to affix the bracket. Follow these instructions:

1. Hold the assembled bracket against the wall over the stud markings. Use a level to ensure it’s even.
2. Trace the inside and outside edges of the bracket arms with a pencil. This is your drilling guide.
3. Drill pilot holes using a 1/4-inch drill bit at the traced marks where the top and bottom arms will attach. Drill only deep enough to enter the studs.
4. Drill a third pilot hole near the center of the bracket for the power cable entry point. Make this hole large enough to thread the plug end of the cable through.
5. Hold the bracket against the wall and screw in the top and bottom screws through the arms into the studs using a power drill. Tighten down securely.
6. Take the floodlight power cable and thread it through the center hole in the bracket. Pull enough cable through to reach the power source.
7. Check that the bracket is firmly anchored by lightly pulling down on the arms. Now it’s ready for the floodlight.

Step 6: Mount and Connect the Floodlight

You’re almost done! The wiring and mounting bracket are installed, so now it’s time to put up the Nest Floodlight itself:

1. Take the Nest Floodlight camera and align the screw holes on the base with the holes on the arms of the bracket.
2. Insert the screws included with the floodlight through each hole and tighten down with a Phillips screwdriver.
3. Check that the floodlight can pivot within the bracket to adjust the angle as needed.
4. Take the female connector at the end of the power cable and plug it firmly into the power port on the back of the floodlight. You should hear a click.
5. If using a junction box or outlet adapter, plug the male connector into the receptacle. For an extension cord, plug it into the female end of the cord.
6. Use a zip tie to loosely bundle up any excess power cord so it’s not dangling.
7. Turn on the circuit breaker and power supply to the floodlight. It should turn on!

You can now do some final adjustments like directing the motion sensor, tilting the light heads, and rotating the entire unit to get ideal coverage. The installation itself is complete though!

Step 7: Set Up the Camera with the Google Home App

After securely mounting the Nest Floodlight and connecting power, you now need to set up the camera using the Google Home app. Here’s how:

1. Download the Google Home app on your phone or tablet if you haven’t already. Open the app.
2. Tap the + icon to add a new device. Select Nest, then follow the on-screen prompts.
3. Scan the QR code on the back of the floodlight camera. This pairs the device with the app.
4. Once paired, you can name the camera and assign it to a room. Select Nest Cam with Floodlight as the device type.
5. The app will guide you through testing the motion sensor, adjusting the lights, and completing any other required setup.
6. You’re done! You can now view live video, receive motion alerts, customize lighting schedules, and control other features right from the Home app.

Configuring the software is the last step for getting your new security floodlight operational. Adjust the motion sensitivity, brightness, and activity zones in the app as needed. You can add other Nest products into the ecosystem for full control and monitoring.

Now you can relax knowing your home exterior has an extra set of eyes (and lights)! The Nest Floodlight’s automatic illumination and intelligent motion alerts will help deter prowlers.

Tips for Ongoing Use of Your Nest Floodlight

You installed your Nest Floodlight, but your work isn’t done. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your new security camera:

• Adjust the motion sensor range – Too narrow and you’ll miss motion, too wide and you’ll get false alerts. Tweak the zone in the app.
• Set schedules – Light up only during desired evening hours. The app makes schedules easy.
• Enable familiar face alerts – Get notifications only for unrecognized faces with Nest Aware.
• Regularly clear debris – Use a dry cloth to wipe the camera lens and clean dust/dirt off motion sensor.
• Point lights downward – Avoid glaring at neighbors. Tilt heads down to brightly light only your property.
• Update firmware – Check the app for any available software or firmware updates to keep features current.
• Use activity zones – Customize exactly where motion is detected using zones, ignoring unneeded areas.

Regularly checking your Nest Floodlight camera and fine-tuning settings will ensure optimal performance. Let us know if you have any other tips!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions people have about installing Nest Floodlights:

How difficult is it to install the Nest Floodlight?

The installation process is designed to be simple enough for the average DIYer. As long as you have some experience using basic tools and are comfortable working with electrical wiring, you should be able to install a Nest Floodlight in about 1-2 hours.

Does the power cable need to be buried underground?

No, you can surface mount the included power cable along the wall or utilize an extension cord. Hiding the cord just provides a more seamless, professional appearance.

Can the floodlight be installed on vinyl siding?

Yes, vinyl siding is fine but you will need longer screws to securely anchor the bracket through to the wall studs. Make sure not to tighten screws so much that it causes the siding to buckle.

How accurate is the motion detection?

The Nest Floodlight has very accurate motion sensing that uses infrared along with sophisticated algorithms to detect people and ignore other movement. Adjustable sensitivity helps reduce false alerts.

Do I need a Nest Aware subscription?

A Nest Aware subscription isn’t required, but it adds features like facial recognition, longer video history, and intelligent alerts to get the most from your Nest Floodlight.

What kind of WiFi connection does the camera need?

The Nest camera needs a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection at 5Ghz speed or faster. It does not support ad-hoc or peer-to-peer networks. The camera should maintain connection up to 150 feet from your wireless router or access point.

Conclusion

Installing the Google Nest Floodlight takes planning, electrical know-how, and some handywork, but the benefits are worth it. You’ll have 24/7 security monitoring with intelligent motion-activated lighting to scare off intruders.

Carefully read through each installation step and adhere to electrical safety guidelines. With the right tools and preparation, you can securely set up a Nest Floodlight on your own. Just take your time and don’t be afraid to call a professional if certain steps seem too advanced.

Once up and running, the real-time alerts and HD video streaming will give you peace of mind. Adjust the sensitivity and customize features to reduce false alarms. We hope this guide gives you confidence to DIY your Nest Floodlight installation. Stay safe and secure!