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August 27, 2020

What To Ask For When Purchasing A New Home Security Camera In Ann Arbor

It's easy to understand why most home security systems include at least one home security camera in Ann Arbor. However, with many different types and features for cameras, it's tough to know what you actually need. Do you get one from a hardware shop and do a DIY install? Or is it better to get your cameras installed by a professional? Should you try to find a camera that live streams in full HD? Is it better to have an outside camera right under the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To explore these questions and other common concerns, here is what you should look for in an Ann Arbor home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Ann Arbor

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Ann Arbor

There are three common kinds of home security cameras in Ann Arbor. Each type has a unique purpose and can easily integrate with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These cameras are installed on the outside of your home to offer a wide view of your property, driveway, and main entrances.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras attach to a wall or sit on a level surface, and usually view one room within your house.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your current doorbell and lets you see who’s on your front porch.

What Makes A “Good” Security Camera In Ann Arbor?

Stroll through the security camera aisle in a popular big-box store, and you’ll learn that there’s a wide range of camera quality and features. Here’s a list of things to look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You'll probably want your camera to scan as much space as it can. Without a wide-angle lens, you’ll likely have blind spots and spaces where people can hide. Look for cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide angle.

  • Low-light clarity: A camera’s not much good if it can’t see what’s going on during the night. You will want a camera that includes infrared LEDs that offer nighttime light.

  • HD resolution: The days of digitized blobs are in the past. Only consider cameras that record and stream in 720 HD or higher.

  • Exceptional construction: Your outside security cameras should be able to withstand bad weather like storms, heat, or cold temperatures (some even come with a built-in heater). Your interior cameras should survive if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

  • Motion detection: Although you can set your cameras for a non-stop record, that requires a lot of power and recording space. Instead, look for a security camera with motion detectors that starts to automatically record when it senses movement.

  • Two-way communication: The best doorbell cameras come with an intercom system so you can communicate with visitors without answering the door. You can even find similar 2-way audio feature with interior or exterior cameras, also.

  • Wireless install: A wireless camera can be added wherever you’d like outside or in your home, and can be moved if if you’d like to position it elsewhere. This approach is usually preferable to wiring your camera straight into a power line.

  • A simple mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s hard to manage? You should look for cameras that include a mobile app that allows you to view live streaming in HD, record and store clips, and receive notifications when your cameras sense motion. It’s nice when your mobile app also manages your overall home security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you know what’s important for you in a residential security camera, you need to choose who’s going to install your cameras. If you’re comfortable with tools, you may see if you can DIY your install. But if you don't know where to put your cameras, or have questions about the tech, explore professional installation. Experts, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, can place your cameras for ultimate security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also explore professional installation if your security cameras pair to a complete residential security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in Ann Arbor With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Ann Arbor come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply contact us at (734) 224-3173 or fill out the form to receive your free quote. We’ll go over your options and how your cameras are an important piece of your home security system.