A decision to install security cameras on your property is informed by security concerns. Whether you have had past incidences of insecurity on your property such as a break-in or vandalism, installing security cameras on your property is a very wise thing to do.
But for the security cameras to work as they should, they need to be installed correctly. Unfortunately, many people get it all wrong when installing a surveillance system on their property. The following are some of the common mistakes that most people make. Avoid them.
1. Purchasing Substandard Cameras
Purchasing poor quality cameras just because they are cheaper is perhaps the worst decision you can make. The purpose of installing security cameras is so that they can come to your aid in the unfortunate event that your property gets broken into. If the quality of the captured footage is too poor to be of any help, this purpose stands defeated.
2. Blocking the Motion Detection Range of Security Cameras
If the area that the security cameras are meant to cover is blocked from the view of those cameras, this beats the logic of having the cameras installed in the first place. Always install your cameras where a clear view of the area that you want to secure is unobstructed. There is no point in installing a security camera if it’s view will be blocked.
3. Installing the Wrong Cameras
Each security camera comes with its own specifications that are ideal for various installations. Aspects such as range, resolution, and image quality are important considerations when choosing a security camera. Make sure that the security camera you choose is ideally suited for your security needs.
4. Choosing to Do It Yourself
Even if you are a DIY buff, when it comes to the installation of security cameras, you should leave it to the professionals. They do security installation almost on a daily basis. They understand the best installation locations, the right installation angles, which cameras are ideal for various locations, etc. In other words, a surveillance system installation is not something you want to tinker with, unless you are a professional installer yourself.
5. Positioning Cameras Too High
In an attempt to cover as wide an area as possible, you might be tempted to place your camera too high. This is not advisable at all for a number of reasons. First, your image quality will suffer. Second, you will be making them too conspicuous for everyone to see (this may not be a problem if that is indeed your intention). There is nothing as frustrating as watching a surveillance recording of a break-in event where you can’t even make out the faces of the intruders.
6. Skimping on Cameras
Using fewer cameras may save you money, but it will cost you more in case your property is broken into. You will need to have cameras at all main entrances and exits into your property. Front doors, back doors, windows and main entrances to your property should be adequately covered. You are better off using more cameras than having to pay for it later.
7. Failing to Consider Sunlight Glare
Besides the consideration of view blockers such as trees and lighting posts, you should install your cameras at angles that are not affected by direct sunlight glare at different times of the day. While this consideration will not be critical at night, it can pose quite a challenge during the day.
Proper installation of security cameras on your property is critical. Incorrect installation can be quite costly and may invalidate the rationale of having a surveillance system on your property in the first place.
