Security cameras are a surefire way to protect your home; they help you deter potential thieves, keep your loved ones safe, and monitor your home at any time. But just having cameras isn’t enough; after all, a security system by itself is no good if it doesn’t work properly in the long run.
Although hiring a professional electrician is usually the best way to avoid installation mistakes, many enthusiastic homeowners prefer to get the job done themselves, eager to start what sounds like a fun weekend project. If this sounds like you, it’s important for you to know about the most common mistakes you can make during the installation process– it may very well be the difference between life and death.
1. Placing Cameras in the Wrong Spots
One of the most common mistakes you can make is installing cameras in locations that don’t give you full video coverage. Homeowners commonly forget to cover a few key areas that are especially vulnerable to break-ins. Some of these spots include:
Front and back doors: These are the main entry points for most homes, so it’s essential to have cameras covering them. Although you’d think most burglars would be smart enough to avoid the front door, 34% of intruders enter the home through the front door.
Ground-floor windows: 81% of burglars enter properties from ground-floor entrances, making these spots especially vulnerable. Any window that’s easy to reach should have some camera coverage to toughen up these weak spots.
Blind spots: Walk around your house and see if there are any areas that are hidden from view. Make sure these spots are covered by cameras, as criminals are often careful to stay in places where they won’t be seen.
2. Not Using Enough Cameras
Unless you live in a small apartment, a few cameras usually isn’t enough to protect your home–a proper setup is necessary to keep all areas of your home protected. Crafty thieves will take the time to look for places that aren’t being watched, using your blindspots as entry points into your home. Not using enough cameras to protect your home can make it easy for burglars to bypass your security systems.
If you want to save money, start with cameras at the most critical spots—front door, back door, and driveway—and gradually add more over time. This way, you’ll still have solid coverage without having to break the bank on a full system right away.
3. Ignoring Security Camera Height and Angles
How you position your cameras matters just as much as where you place them. Installing cameras at the wrong angle can leave blind spots in crucial areas, rendering them ineffective. Distance also matters; for example, if the view is too narrow or too far away, they may not capture important details, like a person’s face or vehicle license plate. On the other hand, placing them too low can make them easy targets for tampering.
Here’s how to avoid these placement issues:
Mount cameras high enough to avoid tampering. Placing your cameras about 8-10 feet above the ground can provide a clear view while making them hard to reach.
Tilt the camera slightly downward. This will help capture faces and activities that happen closer to the ground, like at your front porch or driveway.
Check the camera’s view to make sure there are no tree branches, outdoor lights, or other obstructions blocking its sightline.
If you’re covering larger areas like a backyard or driveway, consider using a camera with a wide-angle lens to cover more ground.
Bonus Mistake: Forgetting About Maintenance
Okay, this one isn’t a top-three mistake, but it’s a big one nonetheless. Many homeowners install their cameras and then forget about them. Over time, things like dirt, cobwebs, and weather conditions can affect the quality of your footage.
It’s important to regularly check your cameras to make sure they’re working properly. Clean the lenses, check the batteries if they’re wireless, and make sure there’s no physical damage after storms or other events.
Final Thoughts
As a homeowner, installing security cameras is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your home– but to get the most out of them, you’ll have to learn to avoid common installation mistakes. Place your cameras in the right spots, use enough cameras to cover all key areas, and make sure they’re positioned at the correct height and angle. By doing so, you’ll maximize the effectiveness of your security system and give yourself peace of mind knowing your home is as safe as possible.
If you’re unsure about how to install your cameras properly or want to avoid these pitfalls, consider reaching out to a professional at Brains Automation to help with the setup. A little extra care at the beginning can save you a lot of headaches down the line-- don't wait until then to start!
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