Home security cameras – what to look for & what you need to know

Why you need a security camera?

Its critically important to understand why exactly you're seeking a security camera. Sitting down and thinking about this choice will determine what kind of security camera you need. Are you seeking peace of mind to know that your home will be secure when you are away? Do you want a security camera for your primary home or a holiday home? Or are you seeking to ensure your home is monitored while you and your family are asleep? Do you want a security camera that you can monitor if anything in your home goes missing? Or if anything does happen you can be reassured that it was recorded? Or are you seeking to install a security camera more as a crime deterrent? Additionally, are you seeking to protect what is outside the house e.g a car or inside the house e.g valuables such as jewellery?

All of these questions can help you unpack what exactly you are looking for in a home security system? Our security advisors at PhoneWatch, Ireland's most trusted alarm system, can help you with this decision and these questions if you wish to contact us. But firstly, lets look at how security cameras operate.

How do home security cameras work

Home security cameras come in all different shapes and sizes with many different features. Some home security cameras will record 24/7 while others will only record when motion is detected near the vicinity of the camera. Motion detector cameras can be more efficient in terms of minimizing energy use. Motion detectors also save on review time if ever you need to look over the footage. Smart security cameras will also notify your phone with real time alerts whenever the camera detects movement. You can then review the incident on your phone.

What are the different types of security cameras?

One of your main considerations for a security camera, is the kind of security coverage you want at your home. You may need to decide whether you want an outdoor security camera, indoor security camera or both. We have summarised the 3 most popular options for you below:

• Outdoor Security Cameras

When many people think of improving their home security most think initially of needing outdoor security cameras or CCTV as it is more popularly known. The main benefit of outdoor security cameras is they are visible to potential burglars. Thus they may deter attempted robberies. Outdoor security cameras also capture activity near the home which can later be reviewed by the CCTV owner or shared with the relevant authorities. Its important the camera has a wide angle lens to capture a wide area outside the home within your boundary. Having a camera with full HD capabilities will also accurately identify intruders. PhoneWatch's outdoor security cameras come with these features built in along with real time alerts, night vision and powerful analytics to detect a human from an animal.

However there can be some additional considerations required when it comes to mounting exterior cameras at your home. This is particularly true in built up areas if they point out into a roadway or a neighbours property. GDPR and the right the privacy will have a large impact on where you can place your exterior cameras. You must ensure they're pointing sinide your property only and do not extend to capture footage beyond the perimeter of your home and into a public place or neighbour's boundary. For this reason they require careful thought when choosing to erect them at your home.

• Indoor Security cameras

Most indoor security cameras possess many of the same features of exterior cameras but are instead placed inside the home. With the PhoneWatch indoor security camera, when the camera detects movement inside the home, it starts recording instantly. Next, a notification is sent immediately to your mobile so you can see what is happening on your PhoneWatch App. The camera can easily distinguish between pets and humans. You can also speak through the camera to talk to your family or scare away intruders.

In some instances where people do not want an indoor security camera, they may instead elect for a camera motion detector which will take a series of pictures when motion is detected. Many PhoneWatch customers choose this option as they usually offer a more budget friendly way to monitor your home instead of a security camera.

• Doorbell cameras

An ever increasing popular choice among security conscious householders is a doorbell camera. The doorbell has a camera embedded which detects movement and notifies you when someone is at the door. One of our recent blogs covers how doorbell cameras work in further detail.

With the PhoneWatch doorbell security camera when a visitor approaches the door to your home, you will get a notification on your phone. You can then see and talk to them through your PhoneWatch Video App, even if you are not at home. Also, any movement outside your door is instantly recorded so if a burglar rings to test if you’re not home, they are captured on camera.

What is the best home security cameras for your home?

Its important to weight up exactly your home needs and what you want in your home security system. Security cameras are an excellent addition to enhancing the security of your home and keeping you and your family safe. One of our recent blogs also covers the benefits of home security cameras.

PhoneWatch offer a range of outdoor security cameras, indoor security cameras, and doorbell cameras. Our security advisors would welcome the opportunity to chat with you about your security needs. You can also request a personalized quote on our website.