Protecting your home is a priority, and installing security cameras can be an easy way to do just that. In this article, we'll explore everything you should know about installing a security camera: the detailed steps of camera installation and where’s best for placement, how to install wire security cameras, whether wireless or wired systems are better suited to your needs, and the potential costs of the home security camera installation. Don't put off providing extra peace of mind in securing your home - dive into our helpful guide today!
Where to Place Security Cameras
Before hooking up security cameras, you need to figure out the right position to locate your security camera systems. There are various factors to consider when deciding where to install security cameras: from the area to monitor to the types of security cameras, and more. Generally, you can choose a good place by considering these aspects:
- Determine put it indoors or outdoors
First, determine if you want to place the security indoors or outdoors according to your monitoring source. The biggest difference between indoor and outdoor cameras is their ability to endure the weather. If you’re settting up an outdoor security cameras, please note that the specific location should be higher than 10 feet, and consider adding protection from adverse weather conditions.
- Examine your home's layout
Next, examine your home's layout and prioritize the locations you wish to monitor. Consider potential camera angles and frequent security camera positions, such as entry doors, off-street windows, porches, stairwells, driveways, and interior common spaces. Note that wifi-enabled cameras may be susceptible to hacking so do not place a security camera in private areas such as rooms and bathrooms.
- Make sure the camera has a clear line of sight
When selecting security camera placements, make sure each one has a clear line of sight and no obstacles. It's also a good idea to think about the camera's preferred height.
How to Install Security Cameras
You have mainly 2 options for installing security cameras: wired or wireless cameras. Let's look at the specific steps of installing them one by one.
How to Install Wireless Security Camera System by Yourself
The steps for installing wireless security cameras are similar to wired camera installations, but they may need less drilling and wiring. Even though these cameras are varied from the manufacturer, generally you can follow the steps below for solving your question: how to install a wireless security camera system at home:
- Choose where to position your security cameras
First, pick a good location where you want your security cameras to be installed. Ensure it not only provides a clear view of the area you want to monitor but is also within the range of your Wi-Fi network.
- Mount the brackets and home securite cameras
Prepare screws and adhesive strips. And mount the cameras using the included brackets or stands.
- Power up and connect the cameras to the network
Power on the cameras and connect them to your Wi-Fi network using the manufacturer’s mobile app or web interface.
- Set up the cameras
Configure the camera settings such as motion detection sensitivity and recording options.
- Test if the security system works well
Test the camera to ensure everything goes well as expected. Ensure that the security cameras are safe from the elements and out of reach to avoid tampering.
The prossedures also answer the question: how to install outdoor security cameras. Just make sure to follow the manual or instructions that came with the products bought.
How to Install Wired Security Cameras
If you prefer having a wired security camera instead of a wireless one, it might cost you a bit more time, but no worries! We’ve summarized the best way to install wired security cameras below:
- Decide the place you want to install security cameras
Pick a good location where you want your security cameras to be installed. This area should consist of a clear view of what you want to record or view online when you're away.
- Prepare the holes for mounting and wiring
Drill pilot holes into the wall or ceiling for the camera mounting bracket and any necessary wiring.
- Installing the bracket
Attach the mounting bracket to the wall or ceiling with screws and anchors.
- Thread the cables
Run the camera’s power and video cables through the holes and connect them to the camera.
- Mounting the security camera systems
Next, mount the camera on the bracket and make sure that the angle is correct. If you have multiple cameras, plan it in such a way that you’ll cover more area and have fewer blind spots.
- Wiring your wired cameras to a storage device
Connect the other end of the video cable to your DVR box or a network switch or a router according to your environment.
- Attach the cameras to a power source
Power on the camera and set it up according to the manufacturer’s instruction manual that came with the security cameras.
- Test before leaving them
Test the camera to ensure that it is working properly.
Security Camera Installation Cost
How much will it take to install the security cameras may depend on a number of factors, including how many cameras you need, their resolution and functionality, and whether or not you choose to have them professionally installed. If you're looking to safeguard your home without breaking the bank, surveillance camera installation by yourself may be the ideal solution. Let’s look at more details below.
DIY Security Camera Installation
Installing security cameras can be free of charge if you're handy with necessary tools, like drills, outlets, wiring, and sandpaper. Most security cameras come with an instruction about how to install security camera wiring and more. So, it is possible to complete the installation yourself. Besides, wire-free and battery-powered security cameras are designed to be DIY-friendly, enabling people to install them without professional assistance.
In this case, all you need to spend on is just the basic materials, time, and your own laber efforts except for the expense on security cameras. And you will not only save money on the security camera installation, but you'll also enjoy the satisfaction of doing it yourself!
Professional Security Camera Installation
For those who don’t have the time or experience to install home security cameras by themselves, professional security camera installation services provide added convenience and peace of mind. Although more expensive than a DIY installation, these services can save you time and energy in getting everything set up correctly. A professional security camera installer will also be able to provide advice on the best type of system for your needs, as well as tips on where to place each camera for maximum effectiveness.
The cost of professional surveillance camera installation varies depending on the number of cameras you plan to install and other factors e.g. wiring requirements. Generally, it cost £150 to £500 per camera for a installation of 1 - 4 cameras. Therefor the total expense for a basic setup range from £150 to £2000. The cost will be increased in line with the security system’s size.
How to Choose the Right Security Camera?
The ideal security camera for you is determined by your specific needs. We’ve gathered main aspects that are mostly considered while installing home security cameras:
The area to be monitored: Outdoor vs. Indoor:
If you need a security camera for outdoor, make sure it is specifically designed with weatherproofing features to withstand the extreme temperatures and weather.
Wired or wireless:
As mentioned in this post, there are sevral differences between wired and wireless security cameras for home: installation difficulty, storage location, power source, and so on.
Video quality resolution:
Higher resolution cameras generally provide clearer and more detailed images. Consider cameras with at least 1080p resolution for standard monitoring.
The lighting condition:
If you need surveillance during the night or in low-light conditions, consider a camera with infrared or night vision capabilities. Infrared cameras use IR LEDs to provide illumination in the dark, allowing the camera to catch pictures in up to 8 meters away.
Storage location:
Decide wheter you want to store the footage in the cloud or locally.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’ve picked the correct type of cameras for your needs, how to set up security cameras may be an easy task to resolve with our particular guidance. Wired cameras may require technical skill and wiring installation, but wireless cameras should require no complicated drilling or wiring work. As for the installation cost of a security camera system, it depends on many factors, which we explained in details in the article. You may install cameras yourself according to the guidance above, or contact a professional to ensure everything is properly integrated into your home security system.
FAQ about How to Install Security Cameras
Do All Security Cameras Need to Be Connected to Wi-fi?
No, not all video surveillance system installations must be Wi-Fi enabled. There are various types of security cameras available in the market with different connectivity options: wired thernet, cellular connection, powerline networking, and local storage. It's important to note that the features and functionalities may vary depending on the connectivity options. Local storage cameras can provide reliable protection without an internet connection, while a Wi-Fi security camera with cloud storage is more convenient, allowing you to access surveillance video remotely via Apps, e.g. EufyCam 2C Pro, which can be connected to Amazon Alexa to have a full control over your security environments.
Which Security Cameras Do Not Require a Monthly Subscription?
There are plenty of security cameras that don't require a monthly subscription, such as Eufy Indoor Cam 2K and EufyCam 2C Pro. Both cameras support local and cloud storage, allowing you to store film on an SD card or Eufy's home base without incurring any additional expenses.
