Introduction
Installing outdoor security cameras can be a great way to monitor your home and property. With the right cameras and placement, outdoor security cameras allow you to see who is at your door, track packages, and keep an eye out for intruders.
Choosing the ideal outdoor security camera for your needs and setting it up correctly does require some research and planning. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully install outdoor cameras, including:
- Benefits of outdoor security cameras
- Important features to look for when choosing a camera
- Where to place outdoor cameras for optimal coverage
- How to install wired and wireless outdoor cameras
- Tips for mounting and angling cameras effectively
- How to power an outdoor camera
- Connecting cameras to your network and smart home ecosystem
- Configuring camera settings and features in the app
- Maintaining your outdoor cameras for best performance
With the right knowledge and preparation, installing DIY home security cameras outside your home is totally doable. Follow this guide and you’ll be set up with an outdoor camera system tailored to your home and needs in no time.
Benefits of Outdoor Security Cameras
Before jumping into the installation process, let’s look at some of the top benefits of having outdoor security cameras at your home:
Increased Home Security
Outdoor cameras act as an extra set of eyes on your property, allowing you to monitor activity day and night. They serve as a visible deterrent to criminals, while catching video evidence if an incident does occur. You’ll have footage to provide law enforcement or submit to your homeowner’s insurance.
Better Property Coverage
Strategically placed outdoor cameras can eliminate blind spots in your home security. A camera pointed at your front door lets you see who is knocking or stopping by. Side and back yard cameras keep an eye on gates and susceptible entry points. Driveways and garages can also be covered.
Real-Time Alerts
Many outdoor cameras send alerts to your smartphone when motion is detected. This allows you to monitor activity in real-time, even when you aren’t home. Alerts also reduce false alarms compared to generic motion detectors.
Packages & Deliveries
Cameras allow you to watch delivery people in action. You’ll know exactly when a package arrives and can confirm it wasn’t stolen. Footage provides accountability if items do disappear.
Remote Monitoring
View live footage from your cameras using a smartphone, tablet or computer. Outdoor cameras with two-way audio even allow you to speak to visitors at your door.
Home Automation
Outdoor cameras can integrate with other smart devices. For example, cameras can trigger lights or thermostats when motion is detected.
With their flexible placement and 24/7 monitoring abilities, outdoor cameras are a versatile security solution. Now let’s look at how to pick the right camera model for your needs.
Choosing an Outdoor Security Camera
The outdoor security camera market has exploded in recent years. All the options can seem overwhelming at first! Follow this guide when comparing camera models:
Types of Outdoor Cameras
- Bullet cameras – Long and cylindrical in shape. They are easily mountable and provide directional monitoring.
- Dome cameras – Compact with a curved casing. Dome cameras have a wide field of view and are more tamper-resistant.
- PTZ cameras – Pan, tilt and zoom functionality allows panning cameras to cover a very wide area. They can also physically move to follow activity.
- Hidden cameras – Disguised as other objects like light fixtures, sprinklers or plants. Provide discreet security.
Video Resolution
Look for cameras that record in at least 1080p HD. Higher 4K resolution provides even crisper image quality but does require more network bandwidth.
Field of View
The field of view is the area the camera can see from its mounted position. Wide 140-degree views provide maximum coverage. Narrower views offer more focused monitoring.
Night Vision
Infrared LEDs allow cameras to see in the dark, usually 30 to 50 feet or more. Make sure the night vision range suits the areas you want to monitor after sunset.
Wired vs Wireless
Wired cameras connect to your network and power via ethernet cables. Wireless cameras use WiFi and batteries/solar instead. Each has pros and cons.
Smart Features
Consider smart cameras with motion alerts, smartphone access, voice control integration, facial recognition, and smart home ecosystem compatibility.
Indoor/Outdoor Rating
Verify that any outdoor camera you choose is rated for full outdoor use and at least IP65 weather resistance.
Budget
Outdoor cameras range from $50 to $500+ depending on features. Plan a budget before shopping so you can balance capability with affordability.
Take the time to carefully evaluate camera options and narrow down the model that best fits your specific outdoor monitoring needs.
Where to Place Outdoor Security Cameras
Placement is key when installing outdoor cameras. Follow these tips to optimize coverage:
Entry Points
Focus your exterior cameras on prime entry points like doors and gates. This allows you to see visitors and track entries/exits.
Driveways & Sidewalks
Monitor cars and people coming and going along your property’s access routes. Make sure to cover garages and driveways.
Yards/Perimeter
View back, side and front yards to keep an eye on activity around the edges of your home. Position cameras to reduce blind spots.
Vulnerable Areas
Watch susceptible windows, air conditioner units, storage sheds and isolated sides of the house that intruders may target.
High & Low Angles
Use a mix of high and low camera angles. High captures more activity while low provides facial details.
Area Lighting
Place cameras where they will have ample lighting at night. Additional outdoor security lighting can supplement areas that are too dark.
Power Sources
When wiring cameras, mount them reasonably close to outlets or junction boxes to simplify connections.
Carefully mapping out your camera placement is just as important as choosing the right camera model. Keep these tips in mind as you survey your home and finalize locations.
How to Install Wired Outdoor Cameras
Wired security cameras need to be connected to power and your local network to transmit footage. Here’s how to tackle the wiring:
Run Ethernet Cable
Outdoor-rated Cat5e or Cat6 ethernet cable should be run from your network switch/router to the planned camera mounting location. burial-rated cable can be buried underground.
Optional: Use Existing Coax
If you have existing coax cable from a cable TV hookup, ethernet over coax adapters allow you to repurpose the coax to connect IP cameras.
Drill Entry Holes
Drill a hole in the wall or eave where the camera is mounted so the ethernet cable can pass from the outside to the inside. Make it narrow for a snug fit.
Mount the Camera
Attach the camera mount securely using included screws or hardware. Follow all manufacturer mounting instructions.
Waterproof Holes
Seal around the ethernet cable where it passes through the hole using exterior-grade silicone caulk. This prevents water intrusion.
Connect Cables
Connect the ethernet cable to the RJ45 port on the back of the camera. Also connect the power cable that came with the camera.
Adjust Position
With cables threaded through the mount, position the camera for the optimal viewing angle now that it is powered on.
The most challenging part of installing wired cameras is running the cabling neatly and properly sealing any exterior holes. Take it slow and double check your work.
Tips for Mounting Security Cameras
Proper mounting is crucial for outdoor camera installation. Follow these tips:
Height
Mount cameras 8-12 feet high for optimal perspective. Use tall exterior fixtures like eaves and lamp posts.
Angle
Tilt cameras slightly downwards at around 10-15 degrees for best coverage. Avoid pointing them too high or low.
Location
Pick locations with a clear, central view of high traffic areas. Avoid obstructions like tree branches.
Reinforce
For walls, be sure to drill into a stud. Use heavy-duty exterior screws rated for the mounting surface.
Adjust
Leave room to pivot and swivel cameras for minor adjustments after initial mounting.
Weatherproof
Seal all holes and fully weatherproof wiring. Check a camera’s specific outdoor rating.
Take the time to find the best mounting spots and angles during installation. It makes a big difference in the camera’s viewing coverage down the road.
How to Install Wireless Outdoor Cameras
Wireless cameras provide flexible placement using WiFi and battery or solar power instead of wiring. Here are some wireless camera tips:
WiFi Signal Strength
Your wireless network should reliably reach the planned camera location. Check the signal using your phone before mounting.
Height
Elevated spots like eaves and second stories get better WiFi range. Avoid ground level or underground.
Proximity to Router
The closer the better! Position wireless cameras within about 25-50 feet of your WiFi router if possible.
Clear Line of Sight
Obstacles like walls and trees degrade WiFi. Have a clear line of sight between the camera and router.
Battery Life
If not solar powered, pay attention to each camera model’s battery lifespan. Efficient PIR motion activation extends battery life. Plan to charge periodically.
Mounting
Follow general mounting best practices. Some wireless cameras come with special mounting plates or hardware.
While wireless cameras are simpler in many ways, take steps to ensure you have adequate WiFi signal and power to support them. Test signal strength first before permanently mounting.
Powering an Outdoor Security Camera
Available power sources differ for wired vs. wireless cameras:
Wired Camera Power
- PoE Switch – Best option. Provides data and power over a single ethernet cable.
- Power Over Ethernet Injector – Alternative to use if your network switch doesn’t support PoE. Injects power into an ethernet cable.
- Junction Box – Tap into an outdoor receptacle using an extension cord. Requires weatherproofing.
- Solar Power – Solar panels keep rechargeable batteries charged. Fully off-grid.
Wireless Camera Power
- Integrated Rechargeable Battery – Most common. Must be routinely recharged via microUSB or removal. Usually lasts 1-6 months.
- Solar Panel – Absorbs sunlight during the day to repower batteries for overnight monitoring.
- Direct AC Power – Some cameras can be plugged into an outlet. Requires weatherproof outdoor extension cord.
- Battery Pack – External weatherproof battery provides continuous power instead of periodic recharging.
Always use the manufacturer recommended power source for optimal performance and safety. Check voltage and amperage ratings.
Connecting Cameras to Your Network
Connect wired and wireless cameras to your home network:
Wired Camera Connectivity
- Ethernet Cable – Physical wired connection provides the fastest and most reliable connectivity. Use outdoor-rated cable.
- PoE Switch – Network switch sends data and power to cameras via ethernet cabling from a single connection.
- WiFi Bridge – Bridges the wireless and wired connections. Lets you mount cameras further away from your network hardware.
Wireless Camera Connectivity
- WiFi – Connect wireless cameras directly to your home WiFi network. Keep the camera close to the router and ensure good signal strength.
- WiFi Extender – If signal is weak, use an extender to boost the WiFi range in the camera area.
- WiFi Mesh Network – Creates one big wireless network. Lets you flexibly place cameras anywhere within mesh range.
Proper network connectivity ensures your cameras reliably transmit video footage to your phone, NVR recorder, etc. Test connections, range, and throughput during installation.
Connecting Cameras to a Smart Home Ecosystem
Many outdoor cameras now offer smart home integration for expanded functionality:
- Voice control – Use Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands to view cameras, receive alerts, etc.
- Smart hub – View footage and control cameras using a central smart home hub.
- Automation – Set cameras to trigger actions like lights turning on based on motion detection.
- Smart notifications – Receive smartphone alerts and quickly access live video feeds.
- Doorbell integration – View your door camera’s video feed using your smart doorbell’s indoor chime panel.
Refer to your camera manufacturer’s instructions for connecting to supported smart home platforms. Updated firmware may be required.
Configuring Camera App Settings
Once installed, additional settings can be tweaked in your camera companion app:
Live View
The live view displays real-time video from the camera. Live view can be accessed 24/7.
Playback
Playback recorded event clips and timelapse historical footage based on the camera’s storage settings.
Notifications
Customize motion detection sensitivity settings. Receive push alerts for activity while away from home.
Schedule
Set monitoring schedules by day/time. Cameras enter standby mode during scheduled sleep times.
Video Settings
Define your preferred resolution format. Optimize for balanced storage and quality as needed.
Sharing
Provide other users access to your cameras via shared permissions in the app.
Get to know all of the in-app configuration options. Adjust as needed to meet your monitoring preferences.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Security Cameras
Once installed, just a few periodic maintenance steps will keep your outdoor cameras running smoothly:
- Check the camera lens for dirt or spiderwebs that obstruct the view. Gently clean the lens using a microfiber cloth.
- Clear vegetation or debris that has grown up and started blocking the camera. Adjust the angle if needed.
- Verify cameras are adequately secured and housing screws/brackets haven’t loosened over time. Tighten as necessary.
- Check wired cable connections. Reseat any loose ethernet cable ends or damaged cables.
- For wireless cameras, periodically check the WiFi signal strength and connection status in the app. Switch to a WiFi range extender if needed.
- Wipe down housings with a damp cloth to keep them looking their best. Avoid chemical cleaners.
- For battery powered cameras, stick to a schedule for charging or swapping out batteries around the manufacturer recommended lifespan.
With periodic checks and maintenance, your outdoor cameras should deliver reliable monitoring and peace of mind for years to come!
Conclusion
Installing outdoor security cameras requires more planning and effort than indoor cameras but is a worthwhile DIY home improvement project. Strategically placed outdoor cameras provide 24/7 monitoring of your entire property and valuable video evidence if needed.
This guide covers the entire installation process start to finish. Take time to decide on the right camera models and optimal placement. Map out wiring runs or WiFi coverage testing beforehand. Mount cameras securely using the ideal height and angle for broad coverage. Follow installation and setup best practices tailored for both wired and wireless cameras. Your new outdoor camera system will be online and protecting your home in no time!
Outdoor cameras do require periodic maintenance and monitoring of camera health in the app. Check in on cameras regularly and address any connectivity or visibility issues that arise over time. Beyond the initial installation, maintaining your outdoor cameras helps provide flawless and reliable monitoring so you can always feel secure.