7 rules to follow when installing security cameras at home

Security cameras are becoming increasingly popular because of the practical benefits they bring, from protecting property to enhancing home security. This is completely reasonable, and it is expected that by 2025, these devices will not only become more reliable but also more affordable, suitable for many users.

While we don't necessarily need super high resolution images from these compact devices, to optimize the camera's performance, it's essential to keep a few important factors in mind.

One of the key factors is the camera installation location, because it directly affects the ability to record clear images, detect motion, as well as the monitoring range that the device can cover.

1. Avoid obstacles

You certainly don't want to position your camera lens in a position where it will be obscured by any object. However, this sometimes includes objects that can change shape or size over time, such as trees and bushes.

In the winter, the clear view of your yard can be completely changed when Spring comes, with the branches of the trees being shaded by new foliage. This requires careful consideration of the changing environment when choosing the installation location.

The same situation applies to indoor areas. Certain objects may appear and disappear in the camera's field of view, interrupting or limiting the device's ability to observe.

For example, does closing a door in the field of view block a large portion of the camera’s view? Or does your cat often find a cozy corner to curl up in front of the lens for hours, inadvertently reducing the effectiveness of the surveillance? These factors all need to be considered to ensure the camera performs at its best in every situation.

2. Windows can also be an obstacle

Indoor security cameras are often cheaper than outdoor models. So you might want to save money by installing one indoors, pointing the lens out through a window to see the outside. However, even if you place the lens against the window, you still won’t be able to avoid problems with glare.

Sunlight or other artificial light sources will refract through many layers of glass, including window surfaces and camera lenses. This can create optical phenomena that can impair visibility at certain times of the day.

At night, factors such as streetlights, headlights from moving vehicles, or light reflected from other sources can be major culprits in reducing image quality. Additionally, dirt accumulated on the window surface can also exacerbate this phenomenon, resulting in blurry or unclear images.

If you choose this option, consider cleaning your windows regularly and ensuring good lighting conditions to optimize the camera’s performance. In some cases, investing in an outdoor camera that is designed to be glare-proof and weather-resistant may be a better option, despite the higher initial cost.

3. Adjust the lens angle to avoid focusing too much on the sky

Optimizing outdoor cameras requires finesse, especially when it comes to angle and taking advantage of shade. Large expanses of sky are often within the camera's field of view in most outdoor areas.

However, with a few small adjustments, you can significantly improve your camera's visibility while protecting it from the negative effects of UV rays and strong light.

First, adjust the angle of the lens to avoid focusing too much on the sky. A slight downward angle not only reduces glare and refraction from the sun or high clouds, but also allows the camera to focus more on the details below.

When mounting, try to point the lens at fixed objects, such as fences, walkways, or the area below your roofline. This not only improves image quality, but also avoids wasting vision on unnecessary empty space.

Second, look for a location with natural shade to place your camera. Shade helps minimize the effects of direct light, prevents glare and flare, and protects the device from UV rays that can damage the camera lens or housing.

If the area you want to monitor doesn’t have natural shade, consider installing a canopy or small shield to protect the camera. This shielding also helps reduce the exposure to heat, especially on hot days, thereby contributing to the longevity of the device.

4. Avoid placing the camera near vents or fireplaces

Exhaust from vents often carries particulate matter, which quickly fogs up camera lenses and can seriously damage the delicate electronic components inside the device.

This includes lint-filled dryer vents, gas heating vents, or any other mechanical system designed to remove unwanted dust, fumes, and vapors from indoor spaces.

Aside from dust, high temperatures pose a much greater threat to cameras. When cameras are placed outdoors, direct sunlight is enough to degrade the adhesives used to attach the cameras.

Additionally, heat from sources such as fire pits, chimneys, or heaters can be seriously damaging. These heat sources not only shorten the life of the battery, but also affect the wiring and overall operation of the device.

Therefore, installing the camera near or directly above vents or heat sources will increase the risk of damage and reduce performance. In short, avoid placing the camera near any source of exhaust or high temperature to protect the device and ensure optimal performance over the long term.

5. Prioritize installing cameras in visible locations

The narrow alley between your house and your neighbor's house can seem suspicious, because you often can't see who or what is approaching through this hidden passageway. However, that doesn't mean it's the most important area to monitor 24/7.

According to statistics from the US cybersecurity company ADT, most break-ins occur through the front door of the house. Right after that are two other weak points on the ground floor that are often targeted: unlocked windows and the back door. These are the areas that you need to prioritize monitoring to ensure security.

It is important to place cameras in prominent locations, right where the bad guys can see them from a distance. Statistics show that 83% of burglars say they will abandon their intention to break in when they discover that the house has a clearly visible security system and will look for another target. Therefore, installing cameras is not only for monitoring but also for effective deterrence.

6. Avoid invading other people's privacy

Research shows that the best places to install security cameras are places where bad guys can easily see them when approaching your property, creating a strong deterrent effect. Cameras should be placed in a prominent but hard-to-reach location, helping to protect the equipment from tampering.

However, when choosing a camera location, you need to consider the impact on neighbors and people around you. You may accidentally violate their privacy if you are not careful.

In fact, you should not install security cameras in places like bathrooms, bedrooms, or other private spaces. If you must install cameras in these places (for example, if you rent your house to multiple people), make sure the camera is in a prominent location and everyone knows about it.

In general, most countries allow filming of outdoor public areas such as streets and sidewalks. However, installations should comply with local laws and avoid using cameras in ways that could be controversial or invade the privacy of others.

7. Don't accidentally let cameras spy on your neighbors

When installing security cameras, you need to respect your neighbors’ privacy. As a matter of common courtesy, it is not appropriate to point the camera directly at your neighbor’s window or backyard. In fact, these are private spaces protected by law, and any intrusion can cause trouble.

Even if you don't intend to film someone else's property, if your camera accidentally points toward your neighbor's yard or window, it could be considered a violation of privacy.

The consequences are not limited to offending neighbors, but can also lead to serious legal disputes. Therefore, the installation of cameras must be done carefully, ensuring that they do not infringe on the personal space of others.