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Outdoor camera in Erie
August 27, 2020

What To Ask For When Buying A New Home Security Camera In Erie

Many home security systems use at least one home security camera in Erie. But with all the different models and features for cameras, it's tough to know what you actually need. Do you get one from a big-box store and set it up yourself? Or is it preferable to get your cameras installed by a specialist? Should you try to find a camera that broadcasts in full HD? How do you decide between an outdoor camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To discuss these questions and other common questions, here is what you should look for in an Erie home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Erie

3 Types Of Home Security Cameras in Erie

There are three common types of home security cameras in Erie. Each one has a specific purpose and should easily integrate with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These types of cameras attach to the exterior of your home and provide a view of your yard and common entryways.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras hang from a wall or are placed on a flat surface, and usually record a single room in your house.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your old doorbell and provides a view of your porch.

What Makes A “Great” Security Camera In Erie?

Take a quick look down the security camera section in your local retail store, and you’ll quickly see that there’s a lot of discrepancy in camera quality and capabilities. Here’s a list of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: In most cases, you will want your camera to scan as much area as it can. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and areas where people can hide. Look for cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

  • Low-light capabilities: It doesn’t do you much good if your security cameras cannot see what’s going on at night. Get a camera that includes infrared LEDs that provide nighttime light.

  • HD resolution: The days of pixelated blobs are in the past. Only consider cameras that record and livestream in 720 high-definition or more.

  • Exceptional construction: Your outside security cameras need to be able to withstand bad weather like thunderstorms, heat waves, or freezing temperatures (some even have a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should still work if they’re bumped or knocked to the floor.

  • Motion sensors: Even though you can program your cameras for a continuous record, that takes a lot of recording space and power. Instead, look for a security camera with motion sensors that starts to automatically record when it perceives movement.

  • Two-way talk: The top doorbell cameras include an intercom system, which makes it easy to speak with delivery people or visitors without answering the door. You can even find the same 2-way audio functionality with interior or exterior cameras, also.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can go anywhere on or inside your house, and is easy to move if if you’d like to position it elsewhere. Wireless install is often preferable to wiring your camera to your home’s wiring.

  • A user-friendly mobile app: How good is a security camera if it’s hard to use? Try to find cameras that come with a mobile app that lets you watch live feeds in HD, record and save clips, and receive alerts when your cameras perceive motion. It’s nice when your security app also controls your comprehensive home security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Pro?

Once you understand what you want in a residential security camera, it’s time to choose how you’re going to install your cameras. If you’re handy, you may try to install your cameras yourself. But if you are unsure where to put your cameras, or can’t figure out the equipment, it’s better to get professional installation. Security specialists, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, will place your cameras for complete security and walk you through the mobile app. You may also think about professional installation if your security cameras sync with a complete home security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in Erie With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Erie come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply contact us at (814) 212-8989 or send in the form below for your complimentary quote. We’ll walk you through your best options and how your cameras can become an important part of your home security system.