What To Ask For When Getting A Home Security Camera In Charleston

Many home security systems include at least one home security camera in Charleston. But with many different brands and options for cameras, it's tough to know what you actually need. Do you get one from a big-box store and do a DIY install? Or should you to get your cameras installed by a pro? Should you insist on a camera that streams in full HD? How do you choose between an exterior camera affixed to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To answer these questions and other common questions, here is what you should look for in a Charleston home security camera.

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Charleston

There are three common kinds of home security cameras in Charleston. Each one has a specific type of use and should easily integrate with your home security system:

• Outdoor home security camera: These types of cameras hang on the exterior of your house and give you a view of your property and main entrances.

• Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras attach to a wall or are placed on a level surface, and typically view a single room within your home.

• Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your current doorbell and shows you if visitors or packages have arrived.

What Makes A “Good” Security Camera In Charleston?

Visit the security camera section in a hardware store, and you’ll learn that there’s a lot of discrepancy in camera quality and capabilities. Here’s a short 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 see as much space as possible. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, there will be more blind spots and places for people to hide. Look for cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

• Low-light capabilities: Your camera should be able to see what’s happening at night. You will want a camera that uses infrared LEDs that offer nighttime illumination.

• HD resolution: The days of pixelated blobs are in the past. Limit your search to cameras that record and stream in 720 high-definition or higher.

• Strong construction: Your outdoor security cameras should be able to stand against poor weather like storms, heat, or freezing temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should absorb shock if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

• Motion sensors: Even though you can program your cameras for a continual 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 senses motion.

• Two-way communication: The best doorbell cameras include an intercom system, which makes it easy to talk with delivery people or visitors without opening the door. You can also find the same 2-way audio capability with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

• Wireless install: A wireless camera can be added almost anywhere on or inside your home, and is easy to move if necessary. Wireless install is usually more popular than wiring your camera directly into your electric wiring.

• A user-friendly mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s difficult to view its feeds? Explore cameras with a mobile app so you can watch live streaming in high-definition, record and store clips, and get notifications when your cameras perceive movement. It’s convenient when your mobile app also manages your comprehensive security and home automation system.       

Is It Best To Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Pro?

Once you have learned what you want in a home security camera, you need to choose if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re good with tools, you may be able to DIY a solution. But if you don't know the best places for your cameras, or have questions about the equipment, go ahead and get professional installation. Professionals, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, will place your cameras for ultimate security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also look into professional installation if your security cameras sync with a complete residential security system.

Get The Best Home Security Cameras in Charleston With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with professional installation in Charleston come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply call (304) 220-0469 or complete the form for your complimentary quote. We’ll talk through your options and how your cameras are an important piece of your home security system.