5 mistakes to avoid while installing security cameras
A security system is an absolute necessity today; it helps you protect your home or place of business from intruders or trespassers. While it may look like simply installing a couple of cameras, it can be a much more sophisticated process. If you are getting a brand new surveillance system for your home or office, you should consider factors like the field of view, quality, and installation process. Additionally, you should avoid the following mistakes:
Choosing the wrong location
One of the most important things about installing security cameras is understanding the proper placement. You should minimize blind spots, as they can make the cameras redundant and ineffective. You will also have to ensure adequate coverage. A good way to prepare would be to place some mock cameras and monitor the area they can cover. Further, identify all the high-risk areas, like the driveways, windows, the main door, and any other entrances, including the garage. These are the usual entry points for intruders, so they need to be covered by the security system. Also, spend some time surveying the property from the outside and looking for vulnerable spots that you may have missed. You will have to strategically place the cameras at these spots and also check their field of view. Also, ensure you place the camera at the right height, not too low or too high.
Overlooking lighting
This is one of the most common mistakes to avoid when installing security cameras. Once you have surveyed the house to identify key areas, you should also get the right lighting here so that the camera can cover any activity in these spots. The purpose of a security system is defeated if there is not enough lighting for you to view the picture or video. Lighting is crucial for nighttime footage as it can be grainy or blurry, making it difficult to identify an intruder or an unusual activity. If you are traveling and are worried about keeping the lights on for the whole day, then install motion-detection lights or even infrared illuminators, as this can ensure visibility even when there isn’t enough light. Also, ensure that the light is not pointed directly toward the camera; instead, it needs to be directed toward the camera’s field of view. This ensures that there is no glare interfering with the recording when you look at the footage.
Neglecting cable management
Cable management might seem like an inconsequential precaution, but it is, in fact, essential when installing security cameras. If the wiring and cords are left tangled, they can be damaged and cause signal interference. Further, cables in plain sight make it easy for intruders to notice and tamper with the wiring and disconnect the cameras. So, you should have a system in place to keep the cords organized and hidden. You may have to get some drilling done to hide the cables. You can also use other tools like cable clips or ties and conduits that organize the wires, ensuring they don’t get tangled. Apart from security reasons, loose cables hanging from the walls or lying on the floor can be a safety hazard and also make the setup look messy.
Not securing the cameras
Another issue that you may overlook is although the cameras are placed at the right height, over a strategic area, and have ample light and hidden cables, they may not be secured properly. This increases the risk of intruders tampering with the cameras or stealing them. Additionally, you should ensure that the cameras are secured to resist heavy rainfall or snow. The mounting hardware and the camera brackets should be secured as per the user guide to ensure the security cameras are not stolen, and harsh weather conditions do not damage the system.
Not investing in a good product
Always do your research before buying a surveillance system. You should compare the features of multiple products and the services the brand offers. Do not prioritize price over quality. By taking into account your own needs and requirements, you can find the perfect security system for your home or office. Many top options can seem expensive, but you should check if they offer features and specifications that justify the price and then shortlist a suitable security camera.
