What To Look For When Purchasing A New Home Security Camera In San Francisco

It's easy to see why most home security systems have at least one home security camera in San Francisco. But with all the different models and features for cameras, it's difficult to know what you really need. Do you get one from a hardware store and do a DIY install? Or is it preferable to get your cameras installed by a pro? Should you look for a camera that broadcasts in HD? And what's better, an exterior camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Types Of Home Security Cameras in San Francisco

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

• Outdoor home security camera: These types of cameras hang on the outside of your home and offer a view of your yard and common entrances.

• Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or are placed on a level surface, and usually show one room in your home.

• Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your current doorbell and lets you know who’s visiting.

How Do You Know It’s A “Great” Security Camera In San Francisco?

Stroll through the security camera aisle in your local hardware store, and you’ll discover that there’s a lot of discrepancy in camera quality and specs. 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 scan as much terrain as possible. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and places for intruders to hide. Try to get cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide angle.

• Low-light capabilities: It doesn’t do you much good if your security cameras cannot record what’s going on when it’s dark. Get a camera that uses infrared LEDs that provide nighttime light.

• HD resolution: The days of pixelated shapes should be in the past. Only consider cameras that record and broadcast in 720 high-definition or more.

• Strong construction: Your outdoor security cameras should be able to withstand poor weather conditions like rain, high heat, or freezing temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your interior cameras should absorb shock if they’re bumped or knocked to the floor.

• Motion detection: Although you can program your cameras for a non-stop record, that takes a lot of recording space and power. We recommend looking for a security camera with motion detectors that starts automatically recording when it senses motion.

• Two-way communication: The best doorbell cameras have an intercom system so you can communicate with guests or delivery people without opening the door. However, similar 2-way audio feature can be found capability with interior or exterior cameras as well.

• Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can go anywhere on or inside your house, and can be moved if necessary. Wireless placement is usually preferable to wiring your camera to your electric wiring.

• A user-friendly mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s a complicated mess to view its feeds? Explore cameras that come with a mobile app that lets you see live streaming in high-definition, record and email clips, and get alerts when your cameras detect motion. It’s nice when your security app also syncs with your comprehensive home security and home automation system.       

Is It Better To Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Professional?

Once you figure out what you want in a residential security camera, you have to decide if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re handy, you may try to DIY a solution. But if you’re unsure the best places for your cameras, or have questions about the components, it’s better to get professional installation. Professionals, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, know the best spots to place your cameras for complete security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also explore professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a full residential security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in San Francisco With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in San Francisco come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just contact us at (415) 966-3602 or complete the form to get your free quote. We’ll walk you through your options and how your cameras are an important piece of your home security system.