Outdoor, weatherproof security camera systems are an important part of a whole-home security system designed to protect your home or office and belongings from burglary and other intrusions or issues. But choosing the best outdoor, all-weather security camera can be a daunting task. With so many different features and options available, what considerations are most important? How do you determine exactly how weatherproof a camera is and ensure that it can withstand your area’s weather conditions? What questions should you ask before selecting an outdoor camera?
Read on to learn more about selecting an outdoor security camera that can handle the heat and cold, rain, or dust.
7 Critical Questions When Selecting a Weatherproof Outdoor Security Camera
If you’re looking to install weatherproof outdoor security cameras at your home or office, consider the following critical questions:
- Are outdoor security cameras weatherproof?
- Are outdoor security cameras waterproof?
- What are weatherproof ratings?
- Can outdoor security cameras operate in the cold?
- Does hot weather interfere with outdoor security cameras?
- How do I choose the best weatherproof outdoor security camera?
- How do I choose the best weatherproof doorbell camera?
Are outdoor security cameras weatherproof?
Terms such as weatherproof, weather-resistant and all-weather can be confusing and hard to decipher. You can assume that any security camera rated for the outdoors will be weatherproof. However, security cameras have varying degrees of exactly how weatherproof they are, and they also offer a variety of other features. A home security expert from CPI Security can help you select the best outdoor security camera to add to your security system.
Are outdoor security cameras waterproof?
While outdoor security cameras are weatherproof, they are not waterproof. Waterproof cameras are able to extend prolonged immersion in water – for example, waterproof cameras are used for underwater photography. Fortunately, there’s really no need for outdoor security cameras to be able to withstand that much moisture.
What are weatherproof ratings?
An outdoor security camera’s ability to withstand the elements is based on its IP rating. IP stands for Ingress Protection, and the IP rating measures how well a camera can resist intrusion of solids and moisture. Weatherproof outdoor security cameras usually have an IP rating of IP65-67.
An IP rating’s numbers indicate how resistant it is to different types of weather elements. The first number denotes protection against solids, like dust particles, and is rated from 0-6. A camera with an IP rating whose first digit is 6 is 100% dust-tight. The second digit represents the camera’s protection against moisture, and is rated from 0-9. Higher numbers are more resistant to moisture. A camera whose IP rating has a second digit that is 5 or higher is generally able to withstand extreme or severe weather.
Can outdoor security cameras operate in the cold?
Outdoor security cameras are able to operate in cold temperatures, although different cameras have varying low temperatures they can withstand. Unless you live in an area that frequently experiences extreme cold with temperatures well below zero, nearly any security camera should be able to keep working through the winter. If you’re concerned, ask a CPI Security expert about the best outdoor security cameras for cold weather.
Does hot weather interfere with outdoor security cameras?
Similarly, outdoor security cameras are also able to operate in high temperatures well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in an area with extreme heat, you may need to research a camera’s ideal temperature range a bit more, or consult with a CPI Security expert to get their recommendation.
How do I choose the best weatherproof outdoor security camera?
When choosing the best outdoor weatherproof security camera, the most important thing to consider is the IP rating. Terms such as “weatherproof” or “waterproof” or “weather-resistant” or “all-weather” can be confusing or even misleading, but an IP-rating clarifies exactly what a camera is able to withstand.
Beyond the IP rating, you’ll want to think about what outdoor security camera features are most important to you. Do you want smart technology that detects different types of activity? Is two-way audio important to you? What kind of IR range (night vision range) do you need? What video resolution is important to you?
At CPI Security, our outdoor security camera comes packed full of valuable features that help protect your home. It features IVAN (Intelligent Video Activity Notifications) technology that detects people, animals and vehicles, discerns the difference, and sends you real time video alerts so you can monitor exactly what is happening at your home, even when you aren’t there. It also has two-way audio features that let you listen and talk from anywhere, and perimeter alert technology that detects unwanted intruders and sends them running. Other specs and features include full HD 1920 x 1080 video resolution, night vision up to 49’, a 117 degree horizontal field of view, and a weatherproof rating of IP66.
How do I choose the best weatherproof doorbell camera?
Choosing a weatherproof doorbell camera involves similar examination of how weatherproof it is and other important details. In addition to considering the doorbell camera’s IP rating, think about what additional features you’d like to have. Do you want smart technology to detect activity? Would you like to be able to talk to visitors through the doorbell? Do you want your doorbell to integrate with the rest of your security system?
CPI Security’s video doorbell camera comes packed with these features and more. It offers the same IVAN technology as our traditional outdoor security cameras, as well as real-time visitor alerts based on your preferences and two-way audio capabilities. Additional specs and features of the outdoor video doorbell include full HD 1920 x 1440 video resolution, night vision up to 15’, a 150 degree horizontal field of view, and a weatherproof rating of IP66. It is available in silver or bronze to best match your door’s other finishes.
For more tips on selecting weatherproof outdoor security cameras, or to schedule a time to install outdoor cameras at your home or office, get in touch with the security experts at CPI Security today.
