Enhancing Your Home Security: A Comprehensive Guide on Camera Installation, Placement, and Optimal Mounting Heights

In my previous post, (5 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE BUYING SECURITY CAMERAS), I introduced the idea of asking yourself some questions to help guide you through the camera selection process. Your responses to the five questions help define your requirements and expectations of a security camera system. Today, we delve deeper into the practical aspects of these systems – installing security cameras, pinpointing the best placement, and determining the ideal mounting heights.

Installing Home Security Cameras

Installing a home security camera isn’t rocket science, but it does require some technical knowledge. Be sure to check the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. You might need some basic tools like a drill, screws, and possibly some wiring tools if your chosen system isn’t wireless. You could also consider hiring a professional, especially if you have purchased a complex or extensive system.

Remember, it’s vital to test the system thoroughly before finalizing the installation. This includes checking the clarity of the video feed, the range of motion if it’s a PTZ camera, and the connectivity with your chosen device for monitoring. This will ensure that you’re not drilling holes and running wires for a system that doesn’t meet your requirements.

For a wired systems, hook up the cameras to the video recorder, power supplies, and monitor. Then review the camera images to ensure all components of the system are working properly. For a wireless system, just power on the camera, connect it to your wifi and use the system app or web portal to view the cameras to ensure they are working as expected.

Placement of Cameras

The placement of security cameras can be as much an art as it is a science. There are several key considerations to keep in mind when determining where to install your cameras for maximum effectiveness.

For outdoor areas, it’s critical to cover all potential entry points – this includes front and back doors, ground-floor windows, and any other access points such as the garage. Outdoor cameras are often mounted higher than indoor cameras, both to deter potential intruders and to capture a wide field of view. Placement should be out of easy reach to prevent any tampering, yet visible enough to act as a deterrent.

Indoor placement should consider areas with high foot traffic like the living room, kitchen, or hallways leading to bedrooms. These are the areas an intruder is most likely to traverse.

A key aspect often overlooked is the placement of cameras to monitor specific locations of high value or areas with alarms installed. These can include doors and windows with alarms, or areas with motion alarms. For high value items this might include home safes, expensive electronics, or areas containing valuable jewelry or artwork.

Having dedicated cameras for these locations can provide a security deterrent, aid in quick assessments and responses in case of an alarm. Remember, while cameras can provide a deterrent the ultimate goal of a camera system is to to record the thief in the act. Visible cameras are a powerful deterrent to potential burglars but they might not always stop them. Having video evidence that can positively identify the individual(s) not only helps catch the thief but also could aid in insurance claims.

Additionally, ensure your cameras have a clear and unobstructed view. Avoid direct sunlight or bright lights shining into the camera and take into account potential changes to the environment, like new furniture or seasonal plants, which could block the camera’s view later on. If you install cameras without IR then make sure the areas the cameras are recording have adequate light to capture the image you want.

Recommended Mounting Height

When it comes to the mounting height, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The ideal height depends on several factors, including the type of camera, the field of view, and the specific area you want to monitor. As a rule of thumb, outdoor cameras are usually mounted about 8-10 feet from the ground. This height is usually out of easy reach, but close enough for a clear image of faces and distinguishing features.

Indoor cameras can usually be placed lower, at around 6-8 feet, depending on the layout and furniture arrangement. Make sure that cameras are not placed too high, leading to top-down views that could distort faces, making identification more difficult.

Remember that your chosen height must maintain the balance between a clear, useful video feed and the camera being discreet and out of reach.

Conclusion

Installing a security camera system involves a lot more than merely selecting the right product. Proper installation, strategic placement, and ideal mounting height are equally essential to ensure your home security system serves its purpose effectively. In the next post, we will explore the various features of modern security camera systems, including motion detection, two-way audio, and cloud storage. Stay tuned!