Safety clarification — September 2026: SC5 alarm silencing requires nearby Bluetooth access, not remote silencing from outside the home. Follow the instructions for the exact alarm model and respond to smoke or carbon monoxide emergencies. See First Alert’s silencing instructions.
At Dana Smart Homes, we’re excited to share that the First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm offers a replacement option to discuss for homes using Google Nest Protect. Check the exact alarm model, regional availability and supported interconnection before selecting equipment.
🧱 Why This Matters
- Nest Protect Discontinued
In March 2025, Google officially discontinued Nest Protect. First Alert stepped in with a modern replacement designed specifically to integrate with Google Home and your existing Protect wiring and mounts.(WIRED, First Alert) - Seamless Replacement
The SC5 model uses the same mounting bracket as Nest Protect—and the hardwired version includes an adapter plug—so you typically don’t need to rewire or replace ceiling fixtures.(Reddit)
🧠 Smart Features for Smarter Safety
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dual Detection | Combines photoelectric smoke detection and carbon monoxide sensing in one unit.(First Alert, First Alert) |
| Precision Detection Technology | Reduces false alarms and delivers earlier warnings in modern home environments.(The Verge, First Alert) |
| Voice Alerts & Heads‑Up Warning | Announces the type and location of the danger, with an early warning stage before a full alarm.(Resideo, The Verge) |
| Smart Connectivity | Get real-time alerts via both the First Alert app and Google Home app—home or away. Silencing requires proximity to the alarm and Bluetooth; follow the manufacturer’s instructions and respond to any actual emergency.(Google Store, Google Help, Resideo) |
| Interconnected System | Interconnection depends on supported alarm models and correct setup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm which alarms can be connected and test the completed installation.(First Alert, The Verge) |
⚙️ Installation & Setup Tips
- First Alert App Setup
- Open the First Alert app and choose Add Device.
- Scan the QR code, configure the location and name, and connect to Wi‑Fi.(Google Help)
- Mount the Device
- The SC5 works on the same bracket as Nest Protect—battery or hardwired options. Follow the instructions for the exact model and applicable alarm placement requirements.(Reddit)
- Link to Google Home App
- In Google Home, log in (migrating your Nest account to a Google Account, if needed), and link the new First Alert device.
- Ensure your old Nest Protect is within range to enable wireless interconnect.(Google Help)
Once done, the devices synchronize using Nest’s Weave protocol (Thread) for seamless alerts across all units.(The Verge)
🙋 What’s Different (and What’s Missing)
- What’s Missing:
Unlike Nest Protect, the SC5 doesn’t include a motion-based nightlight feature or act as a presence sensor for Home/Away routines.(The Verge) - What’s Better:
Features like voice alerts, mobile interface, and app silencing are available as supported by each app; silencing requires nearby Bluetooth access.
💰 Availability & Pricing
- Available in battery-powered and hardwired versions, with historical launch pricing around $129.99 USD (current Canadian pricing may differ).(The Verge)
- Originally announced for summer 2025; confirm current Canadian availability through FirstAlert.com, the Google Store, and select retailers.(First Alert)
✅ Final Thoughts
- If your Nest Protect is nearing the end of its 10‑year service life, the First Alert SC5 offers a modern and compatible upgrade path without disrupting your current smart home setup.
- For homes that already use Nest Protect, adding SC5 alarms lets you expand coverage while keeping everything unified in the Google Home ecosystem.
- The SC5 gives reliable, interconnected safety with voice alerts, remote control, and the same trusted installation—but without the presence sensing or night‑light perks of the Nest Protect.
🏠 Wrap‑Up
At Dana Smart Homes, we always seek solutions that blend seamlessly into smart home ecosystems without compromising on safety. The First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke & CO Alarm, while replacing the discontinued Nest Protect, brings dependable and modern safety features and integrates beautifully with Google Home. Whether you’re expanding or replacing, it’s a smart step forward for fire and CO protection in your connected home.
Need help comparing First Alert models, or walking through setup in your Google Home app? Let us know—we’re here to help.
