Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to plan for some spring cleaning and maintenance of your home security cameras to keep them ship shape. Whether it’s home security cameras, or cameras around your business, or community home association cameras – they all need some TLC so they continue to operate perfectly.
1. The Camera
If you can, dismount your camera to clean off dirt and debris. Cleaning the camera and getting into its nooks and crannies is much easier if you can detach it. You can use compressed air (same as you might use to clean a computer keyboard), or a soft cloth that doesn’t leave lint.
If using compressed air, don’t aim the air directly into the camera lens.
Clean around the camera’s edges and corners where dust builds up.
Detail any coverings for batteries or other mechanical compartments.
Use a soft cloth to clean away any dust or other accumulation (like salt if you live near the coast, or spider webs or pollen).
TIP: Compressed air is a handy thing for cleaning security cameras at any time of the year. Even small amounts of dust or a smudge can reduce the quality of its view and video clarity.
2. The Lens
You want the cleanest lens possible to capture the best and clearest video. Even if you don’t have a lot of inclement weather, dust can build up over time. It’s a good habit to wipe down your lens every month, and after bad bouts of bad weather. Even rain carries dust and other particles with it.
Be careful cleaning the lens use a soft cloth to clean it. A microfiber cloth is helpful. Try not to press to hard to clean the lens and bigger dust particles may scratch it.
After cleaning, check your app or monitor for a live view – clean off any remaining stains or streaks.
Avoid soap, detergents, or bleach wipes. These chemicals can be harsh on the equipment and leave stains after drying.
3. The Mount Connections
Check the camera mount and screw or straps. Make sure they are clean and free of debris, sludge or dirt. If your camera is mounted with a magnet snap, clean the magnet areas to make sure they connects securely.
It’s also important to check the area that the security camera is mounted to. Look for wear and tear of the structure, water damage, cracks, or other damage. Make sure to keep this area in good repair. Trim area landscaping so the security camera is free of overgrown shrubs or branches.
4. The Battery
If your security camera is wireless, check and recharge the battery. If it uses batteries, replace them, especially if you haven’t done so in over a year. Replace with fresh lithium batteries for a worry-free year! Some security camera and smart home apps show battery levels, so give the battery level a check every now and then.
5. The Motion
Some camera apps have settings for motion zones and level of motion sensitivity. If you can operate your camera with your app, take a look of the area the camera views. If you camera lens can move, test it to see if there are any sticking points where there might be an obstruction to the movement.
6. The View
Even under an eave, winter winds and rain can affect your camera’s position and what it records. Make sure your camera is still facing whatever angle you want it to capture and use the live feed to adjust it back to the spot if it’s out of place.
7. The Connection
Check any wires or cable connections. Are they still intact? Look for cracks and any signs of wear or damage. Outdoor security cameras are built tough and often weatherproof, but they have to stand up to the elements and can still degrade. If you see any cracks or wear in the wires or cables, contact your camera manufacturer for repair or replacement support.
Now is a good time to update any software or firmware, if you haven’t already. These updates are vital in the smooth functioning of your camera, app, and connection to any smart home platform. Updates are often upgrades and fixes of security vulnerabilities or speed issues.
Spring is a good seasonal reminder to take care of your security camera and keep it running and operable. A reliable camera is an integral part of a security surveillance and video system. Keeping it well-maintained allows you to stay proactive in your own crime prevention and deters intruders or a porch pirate.
Rapid International Solutions
Rapid International provides security services, including staffed areas and patrol services, prioritizing neighborhood-based security in collaboration with your community. Rapid’s management has extensive experience in the security industry and in each city, we build partnerships with local law enforcement and emergency service agencies. We work to make people and communities safe and secure. Please get in touch, we’d love to help you make your community safer and more secure. In Georgia, call: (706) 844-2586, in California call: (213) 364-1394 or email us at info@therapidway.com.
Security is a process, not a product.
Bruce Schneier
IG: rapidgroup.ga | Linked In: Rapid International Group, Inc.
