An Introduction into Home Security Cameras
Guest post by Prince Kapoor
According to Alarms.org, there are roughly 2.5 million burglaries each year in the U.S., with 66% of those being home break-ins.
If you’re a homeowner or even if you rent and you’re looking to keep your family safe, you’ve probably considered getting home security cameras set up.
However, there’s an overwhelming amount of information out there, and it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve compiled several tips on the introduction into home security cameras so you can have a solid starting point.
In this article, you’ll learn why you need to get home security cameras set up at home, whether you should get a wired or wireless camera, and how to install and place your camera.
Keep reading to discover just how easy it is to keep your home and family safe with home security cameras, even if you know nothing about home security.
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Why You Should Invest In Home Security Cameras
Investing in home security cameras is a smart idea for a number of reasons. Here are a few reasons why you need to set one up in your home this year:
1. Protect Your Home from Break-Ins & Burglaries
The most obvious reason to install a home security camera in your home is to defend your family and home against burglaries. Nowadays, home security cameras can send an alert to your smartphone notifying you of unusual activity outside the home, so you can be ready to alert the police, or defend yourself.
Also, in the event that someone does break-in, you’ll have footage that you can take to the police to help identify the criminal so they can prosecute them or press charges if necessary.
2. Communicate with Your Family
Modern security cameras aren’t limited to simply capturing footage of a potential burglar. You can use these devices to check-in with family members while you’re out of the home, as an upgrade to a simple phone call.
Whether that means making sure your kids are getting their homework done at the dinner table, or you want to have a quick chat with your spouse to let them know you’ll be late for dinner.
3. Check-in on Your Pets
Just as you’re able to communicate with your loved ones, let’s not forget about your pets. Though you shouldn’t leave your pets alone for long periods of time, in the case that you do have to be away for a few hours, it can be stressful not knowing how they’re doing.
Home security cameras are an easy way to quickly check-in on your dog or cat to make sure they’re alright, without even having to leave your desk at work.
4. Medical Security
Along with being able to check in on the kids and pets, many homeowners are using home security cameras to check in on their elderly parents, or loved ones with medical conditions.
Maybe you have a loved one who deals with a medical condition, or maybe your aging mother lives by herself or is susceptible to falling. Installing a home security camera is a great way to have peace of mind that you’ll be able to check-in, even if your loved one can’t answer the phone due to an emergency.
5. Bonus: Insurance Benefits
One bonus reason why you should have home security cameras set up in your home is for insurance discounts. Many insurance providers will offer a discount to homeowners who have a home security camera installed in their homes. Remember to check with your home insurance provider as every company offers different policies and discounts.
Wired vs. Wireless Home Security Cameras
Getting a home security system is a smart way to keep your home safe. Homes with security systems are 300% less likely to be burglarized, according to Alarm.org.
Once you’ve made the decision to purchase a home security camera, the next question you have to ask yourself is: Should I get a wired or wireless home security camera?
Here we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type:
Wired Home Security Cameras
Wired home security is the traditional type of security and is usually used on larger properties. They require cables for an internet connection, power, and video transmission.
Pros
Reliability: The main benefit of wired security cameras is reliability. They’re not susceptible to wireless signal interference.
Large System Support: Wired security is best for large properties. They can handle the range of power, transmission, and internet signal better than wireless on big properties.
Cons
Installation Time: Wired installation can be extremely meticulous and time-consuming. We recommend using a professional (though it’s not mandatory) since there can be plenty of complicated cable-running involved.
Susceptible to Power Outages: If the power goes out, your wired home security goes out as well. One way to combat this is with a backup generator, which requires a bigger investment.
Wireless Home Security Cameras
New & modern wireless home security cameras have become more and more popular over the years.
They address the biggest downside to wired security: installation.
Pros
Easy Installation: If you’re someone who can’t stand setting up new technology, then your best bet is to choose wireless. Since they transmit footage via Wi-Fi, you don’t need to run internet cables. Plus, installation is more flexible since you only require a power source.
Easy Take Down: If you rent your home or lease business property, then wireless systems are much easier to take down if you have to move locations.
Cons
Varying Signal: The biggest downside to wireless security cameras is their vulnerability to a weak Wi-Fi signal. If your home has terrible Wi-Fi, you should consider getting a wired system.
Limited Size: Wireless systems are usually limited to four cameras. If you have a larger property, your security cameras may not have the capacity to cover the entire area.
Tips for Installation & Placement of Cameras
Once you’ve purchased your home security cameras, the next step is to figure out how and where to install them.
Here are a few installation tips to make sure the process is as simple and as fast as possible:
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- Test Your Equipment Before Committing to the Install. This is important to make sure the signal is strong enough if you have wireless security.
- Don’t Try to Jerry-Rig or Tweak the Camera. If you have a knack for technology, you may want to “adjust” the settings or the mount. Unless you’re an expert, it’s best that you stick with the manual and equipment provided so you don’t damage your cameras.
- Don’t Install the Cameras Where You Can’t Reach Them. Put them somewhere you can reach them for ongoing cleaning, maintenance, or if you need to access them for any reason.
- When in Doubt, Hire a Professional. If you’re not confident installing the cameras yourself, don’t push yourself to the edge to do so. Hire a professional if you have any doubts. It will save you time, and they will ensure an efficient installation.
Placement
Placing your home security cameras in the right spot is crucial to ensure maximum security. Here are the most vulnerable break-in entries that your cameras should be covering:
- The Front Door This is the main entry a potential burglar will take. Put your camera on the second-floor level that points directly to your front door.
- The Back Door The back door is another vulnerable location. Again, make sure the camera is high enough so a potential threat can’t remove it.
- Off-Street Windows Many burglars will attempt to break-in through a window that’s not visible from the road. Make sure to point one to any windows at the side or back of the house.
- Other Vulnerable Locations Some other common locations to secure include:
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- Basement
- Second floor
- Driveway
- Garage
- Shed or Barn
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The easiest way to figure out where to put a camera is looking at all possible entries, with doors being the most vulnerable, and windows being the second most vulnerable.
A University of North Carolina study, titled, “Understanding Decisions to Burglarize from the Offender’s Perspective”, states that 60% of burglars would change their minds if they noticed a home security system was installed.
Remember, an investment in home security cameras is an investment in the safety of your home and family.