What To Look For When Buying A Home Security Camera In Washington, DC

It's easy to see why most home security systems have at least one home security camera in Washington, DC. But with many different models and options for cameras, it's tough to know what’s really important in a camera. Do you purchase one from a retail store and install it yourself? Or is it better to get your cameras installed by a pro? Should you look for one that live streams in full HD? And what's better, an outdoor camera right under the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Washington, DC

There are three common kinds of home security cameras in Washington, DC. Each type has a unique purpose and can easily be included with your home security system:

• Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras attach to the outside of your home to give you a wide view of your property and main entryways.

• Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or sit on a level surface, and typically record one room within your home.

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

How Do You Know It’s A “Good” Security Camera In Washington, DC?

Stroll through the security camera row in your local big-box store, and you’ll learn that there’s many differences in camera durability and features. Here’s a short list of what you should look for in your home security camera:

• Wide field of vision: You'll probably want your camera to scan as much terrain as possible. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and spots for intruders to 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 display what’s happening when it’s dark. Try to find a camera that has built-in infrared LEDs that give nighttime light.

• HD resolution: The days of grainy shapes should be behind you. Only look at cameras that record and broadcast in 720 high-definition or more.

• Strong construction: Your outdoor security cameras need to be able to stand against poor weather conditions like storms, high heat, or cold temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your interior cameras should survive if they’re bumped or knocked to the floor.

• Motion sensors: Although you can set your cameras for a continual record, that requires a lot of power and recording space. Instead, try to find a security camera with motion sensors that begins to automatically record when it perceives motion.

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

• Wireless capabilities: A wireless camera can go wherever you’d like outside or in your house, and is easy to move if necessary. Wireless placement is typically preferable to wiring your camera directly into a power line.

• A user-friendly mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s hard to view its feeds? Get cameras that come with a mobile app that allows you to view live feeds in HD, record and store clips, and get alerts when your cameras sense movement. It helps when your camera app also manages your comprehensive security and home automation system.       

Is It Better To Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you figure out what you’re looking for in a residential security camera, you need to decide how you’re going to install your cameras. If you’re comfortable with tools, you may try to DIY a solution. But if you’re not sure where to put your cameras, or have questions about the tech, explore professional installation. Professionals, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, will hang 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 comprehensive home security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in Washington, DC With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Washington, DC come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just call (202) 221-4066 or send in the form for your complimentary quote. We’ll walk you through your your ideal options and how your cameras can integrate with your home security system.