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Outdoor camera in Cedar Rapids
August 27, 2020

What To Ask For When Getting A New Home Security Camera In Cedar Rapids

Many home security systems include at least one home security camera in Cedar Rapids. However, with all the different models and options for cameras, it's tough to know what’s really important in a camera. Do you buy one from a hardware shop and set it up yourself? Or is it better to get your cameras installed by a specialist? Should you look for one that streams in HD? How do you decide between an outdoor camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in Cedar Rapids

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Cedar Rapids

There are mostly three different types of home security cameras in Cedar Rapids. Each type has a specific type of use and can easily be included with your residential security system:

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

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or sit on a flat surface, and usually view a single room in your house.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your current doorbell and provides a view of your porch.

How Do You Know It’s A “Good” Security Camera In Cedar Rapids?

Visit the security camera aisle in a big-box store, and you’ll discover that there’s a wide range of camera durability and features. 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 view as much area as it can. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, there will be more blind spots and places for intruders to hide. Try to find cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

  • Low-light clarity: Your camera should be able to see what’s happening during the night. Look for a camera that comes with infrared LEDs that give nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of pixelated shapes are behind you. Only consider cameras that record and livestream in 720 high-definition or more.

  • Strong construction: Your exterior security cameras need to be able to function when there’s bad weather like thunderstorms, high heat, or frigid 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 power. We recommend looking for a security camera with motion detectors that begins to automatically record when it perceives movement.

  • Two-way talk: The top doorbell cameras include an intercom system, making it easy to communicate with visitors without opening the door. However, the same 2-way audio capability can be found capability with indoor or outdoor cameras, also.

  • Wireless capabilities: A wireless camera can go anywhere on or inside your house, and can be moved if if you’d like to position it elsewhere. This approach is usually preferable to wiring your camera straight into your home’s wiring.

  • A simple mobile app: How good is a security camera if it’s hard to manage? Get cameras that include a mobile app that allows you to see live feeds in HD, record and email clips, and receive notifications when your cameras perceive movement. It helps when your mobile app also controls your complete home security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Installed By A Professional?

Once you have learned what you’re looking for in a residential security camera, it’s time to choose if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re handy, you may be able to install your cameras yourself. However, if you don't know where to put your cameras, or have questions about the tech, it’s better to get professional installation. Security specialists, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, can place your cameras for ultimate security and show you how to use the mobile app. You may also explore professional installation if your security cameras sync with a comprehensive home security system.

Buy The Best Home Security Cameras in Cedar Rapids With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Cedar Rapids come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just call (319) 214-2293 or send in the form to get your complimentary quote. We’ll discuss your your ideal options and how your cameras can become an important part of your home security system.