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Outdoor camera in Birmingham
August 27, 2020

What To Ask About When Buying A Home Security Camera In Birmingham

Most home security systems include at least one home security camera in Birmingham. But with all the different brands and features for cameras, it's difficult to know what you really need. Do you get one from a hardware shop and install it yourself? Or is it preferable to get your cameras professionally installed? Should you look for one that live streams in HD? And what's better, an outdoor camera affixed to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

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

Three types of security cameras in Birmingham

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Birmingham

There are three common types of home security cameras in Birmingham. Each type has a special type of use and can easily fit within your home security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These cameras hang on the exterior of your house and give you a view of your yard and main entrances.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras attach to a wall or are placed on a level surface, and primarily record a single room within your home.

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

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

Visit the security camera row in a big-box store, and you’ll discover that there’s a lot of discrepancy in camera quality and capabilities. Here’s a rundown of features to look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: In most cases, you will want your camera to see as much terrain as possible. Without a wide-angle lens, you’ll likely have blind spots and spots for intruders to hide. Look for cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide view.

  • Low-light clarity: A camera’s not much good if it can’t display what’s happening in the dark. You will want a camera that comes with infrared LEDs that give nighttime light.

  • HD resolution: The days of grainy blobs should be history. Only consider cameras that record and broadcast in 720 high-definition or higher.

  • Durable construction: Your exterior security cameras need to be able to stand against poor weather like thunderstorms, heat, or frigid temperatures (some even come with a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should still work if they’re bumped or knocked to the floor.

  • Motion sensors: Even though you can set your cameras for a continuous record, that takes a lot of power. Instead, look for a security camera with motion detectors that begins to automatically record when it senses motion.

  • Two-way communication: Doorbell cameras should come with an intercom system so you can talk with delivery people or visitors without coming to the door. However, similar 2-way audio feature can be found capability with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless capabilities: A wireless camera can be placed anywhere on or inside your home, and is easy to move if necessary. Wireless install is usually more popular than wiring your camera to your home’s wiring.

  • A simple mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s a pain to manage? You should look for cameras with a mobile app that allows you to watch live feeds in HD, record and email clips, and get alerts when your cameras perceive motion. It helps when your mobile app also manages your overall security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you understand what you’re looking for in a residential security camera, you need to decide if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re handy, you may see if you can install your cameras yourself. However, if you are unsure the best spots for your cameras, or can’t figure out the components, it’s better to get professional installation. Experts, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, will hang your cameras for maximum security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also consider professional installation if your security cameras pair to a comprehensive home security system.

Find The Best Home Security Cameras in Birmingham With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with professional installation in Birmingham come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Just contact us at (205) 203-0526 or send in the form to get your free quote. We’ll go over your your ideal options and how your cameras can become an important part of your residential security system.