Top Seven Tips for Installing Home Security Cameras
January 30, 2023
Doorbell cameras have become more popular for homeowners that want to keep an eye on their porches, but home security cameras can also be installed anywhere inside and outside your property. Here are seven of the best tips for properly installing your security cameras.
1. Install Cameras Near Entry Points
Whether you are installing cameras inside or outside your home, start with the entry points. You should have cameras covering the front door and any other entrances on the ground floor.
Installing cameras outside your front, side, and back doors can act as a deterrent. Criminals are likely to notice the cameras and think twice before attempting anything illegal.
If you plan to install cameras inside your home, you should still cover the main entryways. Covering the entrances ensures that you capture a good image of anyone entering your home.
2. Use Cameras to Protect Garages and Sheds
Garages and sheds are common targets for thieves. A thief may be able to enter a detached structure, such as a garage, with less effort compared to entering a home.
You can use your cameras to keep a better eye on any detached structures on your property. Along with being an easy target, garages and sheds tend to store valuables, such as vehicles and lawn equipment.
3. Install Cameras High and in the Corner
Home security cameras tend to provide better coverage when installed high and near a corner. You can view more of a room from a corner location. Putting the camera up high also keeps objects and furniture from blocking your view of the entire room.
Along with increasing your visibility, installing a camera high up makes it more difficult to steal or tamper with it. You should also ensure that you angle the cameras properly, as a camera pointed up high may not capture peoples’ faces as easily.
4. Keep an Eye on Your Most Valuable Possessions
Burglars are most likely to steal valuable possessions that they can easily resell, such as electronics and household appliances. Keep a camera pointed at your most valuable possessions if you want a video record in the event of theft.
You may want a camera that covers your living room or master bedroom. Installing a camera inside your garage or workshop may also give you greater peace of mind when you are away.
5. Test Your Cameras Before You Mount Them
Security cameras often include a bracket that you can mount to the wall or ceiling. Test the view of each camera before drilling holes and mounting. You want to ensure that the camera has a good view of the area that you want to cover.
You should also check the camera during the daytime. Make sure that the camera is not pointed directly at the sun as it passes overhead, as the sunlight may cause a glare that limits your view.
6. Pay Attention to the Strength of Your Wi-Fi Signal
Most home security camera systems rely on Wi-Fi for connectivity, which limits the number of wires and gives you greater flexibility when choosing locations. However, you also need to ensure that the cameras are within range of your Wi-Fi router.
Pay attention to the strength of the connection. You do not want a camera to lose its connection frequently. You can also consider extending the signal using a Wi-F- extender or repeater.
7. Clean Your Cameras at Least Once Per Year
The lenses on your security cameras need cleaning at least once per year. Allowing dust and debris to build up on the surface of the lens limits the quality of the videos and photos.
You may capture blurry images. Use a lens cleaner and cloth to wipe the lenses clean and maintain a clear view.