How To Install Home Security Cameras

Choosing The Right Camera

Between night vision, smartphone connectivity, motion-sensing and more, home security cameras are more capable than you think. Decide how you want your camera to perform, then choose the security camera system to match.

Indoor Vs Outdoor Cameras

Are you team indoor or outdoor (or both)? Indoor cameras do best on the ground floor, catching suspicious movement around windows and entry points. An indoor camera can be a watchful eye over the kids’ bedroom hallway, or even keep tabs on pets when you’re not home.

Outdoor security cameras are made to fare the elements while catching movement around entry points. Set a camera above the front door, or man all stations with a multi-camera outdoor system. Fancy a bit of online shopping? Perch a camera over the porch to keep track of deliveries and deter porch pirates.

Wired Vs Wireless Cameras

If you’re renting or just keen for a quick set-up, wireless security cameras are the way to go. These Wi-Fi enabled wonders feature all the must-have features to keep your property protected. Their batteries need charging or changing every 6–12 months, but will keep rolling when a summer storm cuts the power. Or, opt for a solar-powered camera!

Wired cameras require a more elaborate and permanent installation. But for all your efforts, you’re rewarded with a reliable video stream that won’t buffer when the Wi-Fi plays up.

“Many wired cameras are Wi-Fi enabled too, so you’ll still get all the benefits of smartphone connectivity – think dedicated apps that can ping you when there’s movement detected at the front door,” says David Linehan, The Good Guys Buyer – Tech Accessories.

Location, Location, Location

Do some reconnaissance and scope out your best security camera spots. Indoor cameras should live high in the corner of a common or downstairs area for best vision.

For an outdoor set-up, you can’t go wrong with a front door, back door and/or driveway camera. To maximise motion-sensing features, choose a spot that offers a wide field of view. Consider camera visibility too – like garlic to a vampire, just the sight of a security camera can deter criminals.

If you’ve got a Wi-Fi security camera, ensure your connection is strong enough to reach from the front deck to the backyard shed – or use a range extender to give it a boost.

Mounting Security Cameras

Most models come with a security camera installation kit, complete with all the screws and mounts needed to keep things in place. Indoor cameras also go well on the top of cabinets and tucked into benchtop corners.

Installing Security Cameras

Hook your camera up to the power source, connect to the Wi-Fi and you’re good to go! “The latest security cameras make installation easy,” says David Linehan. “Simply choose where your camera will live, fit the mount to the wall or sit the camera on a high, flat surface. Then it’s over to the app – Swann and Eufy security cameras feature apps which let you connect to compatible smart speakers.”

Before installing a wired camera, map out the wire’s route – will it plug into the garage and lead out beside the garage door, or go incognito though the interior walls? Drill all the holes you need, then run cables to your cameras.

Testing The Tech

Play with motion sensitivity settings, and pay attention to brightness settings if your camera sits in a sunny area. Adjust your phone’s notification settings so you get pinged when motion is detected, and do a few test runs to check it’s all in working order.

Maintenance

To keep your camera at its best, regularly clean the lens, check the wires and charge the device. For your outdoor security camera, trim hedges and bushes that may obstruct the camera’s field of view. It’s also worth checking your filming and storage settings. “A big one is date and time stamps – make sure everything is accurate so you can easily track down days, times and events,” says David.

Ready to boost your home security and enjoy greater peace of mind? See us in-store or online for the security cameras that make surveillance simple.