What To Ask For When Purchasing A New Home Security Camera In Chico

Many home security systems use at least one home security camera in Chico. However, with all the different models and options for cameras, it's tricky to know what you actually need. Do you purchase one from a hardware shop and do a DIY install? Or should you to have your cameras installed by a professional? Should you try to find one that records in full HD? Is it better to have 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 Chico home security camera.

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Chico

Here are the three most common types of home security cameras in Chico. Each type has a specific purpose and can easily fit within your residential security system:

• Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras attach to the exterior of your house to provide a wide view of your property and common entryways.

• Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras attach to a wall or sit on a level surface, and usually view a single room within your home.

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

What Makes A “Good” Security Camera In Chico?

Visit the security camera section in your local big-box store, and you’ll learn that there’s a lot of discrepancy in camera quality and specs. Here’s a list of features to 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. Without a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and spaces for people to hide. Try to find cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

• Low-light capabilities: It doesn’t do you any good if your security cameras can’t see what’s happening when it’s dark. Try to find a camera that includes infrared LEDs that provide nighttime illumination.

• HD resolution: The days of grainy shapes should be behind you. Limit your search to cameras that record and livestream in 720 high-definition or more.

• Strong construction: Your outdoor security cameras should be able to function when there’s poor weather conditions like thunderstorms, heat, or cold temperatures (some even have a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should survive if they’re bumped or lightly fall to the floor.

• Motion detection: Even though you can set your cameras for a continual record, that requires a lot of power. We recommend looking for a security camera with motion detectors that starts automatically recording when it detects motion.

• Two-way communication: Doorbell cameras should have an intercom system, making it easy to communicate with guests or delivery people without answering the door. However, the same 2-way audio capability can be found feature with interior or exterior cameras, also.

• Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can be placed wherever you’d like on or inside your house, and is easy to move if needed. Wireless placement is usually more common than wiring your camera straight into your home’s wiring.

• A user-friendly mobile app: How good is a security camera if it’s a pain to use? Explore cameras that include a mobile app that allows you to see live streaming in high-definition, record and store clips, and receive alerts when your cameras sense movement. It helps when your mobile app also controls your overall home security and home automation system.       

Is It Better To Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you know what’s important for you in a residential security camera, it’s time to choose how you’re going to install your cameras. If you’re handy, you may try to DIY your install. However, if you don't know where to place your cameras, or can’t figure out the tech, explore professional installation. Experts, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, will place your cameras for complete security and walk you through the mobile app. You may also think about professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a comprehensive residential security system.

Get The Best Home Security Cameras in Chico With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Chico come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply call (530) 205-3977 or send in the form below for your no-cost quote. We’ll talk through your best options and how your cameras can integrate with your home security system.