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Outdoor camera in Harrisburg
August 27, 2020

What To Ask About When Purchasing A Home Security Camera In Harrisburg

It's easy to see why most home security systems use at least one home security camera in Harrisburg. However, with many different types and features for cameras, it's difficult to know what’s really important in a camera. Do you buy one from a retail store and install it yourself? Or is it preferable to have your cameras professionally installed? Should you try to find one that records in full HD? How do you choose between an outdoor camera affixed to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To discuss these questions and more, here is what you should look for in a harrisburg home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Harrisburg

3 Types Of Home Security Cameras in Harrisburg

There are mostly three different types of home security cameras in Harrisburg. Each has a specific purpose and should easily be included with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These kinds of cameras are installed on the outside of your house to provide a wide view of your yard and main entryways.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras are fixed to a wall or rest on a level surface, and primarily show a single room in your house.

  • Doorbell cameras: A doorbell camera replaces your old doorbell and lets you see who’s on your front porch.

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

Take a quick look down the security camera aisle in a popular big-box store, and you’ll discover that there’s many differences in camera quality and capabilities. Here’s a short list of what you should look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You'll probably want your camera to scan as much area as possible. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you have a higher chance of blind spots and areas for intruders to hide. Look for cameras with at least a 140° to 180° wide angle.

  • Low-light capabilities: Your camera should be able to see what’s happening at night. Look for a camera that has built-in infrared LEDs that give nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of grainy blobs should be in the past. Only consider cameras that record and stream in 720 HD or higher.

  • Exceptional construction: Your outside security cameras should be able to function when there’s bad weather like storms, heat waves, or freezing temperatures (some even come with a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should absorb shock if they’re bumped or knocked to the floor.

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

  • Two-way communication: The best doorbell cameras include an intercom system, which makes it easy to speak with visitors without answering the door. However, similar 2-way audio feature can be found functionality with indoor or outdoor cameras, too.

  • Wireless functionality: A wireless camera can go almost anywhere on or inside your home, and can be moved if needed. This approach is often more common than wiring your camera to your home’s wiring.

  • A user-friendly mobile app: How helpful is a security camera if it’s a pain to see your feeds? You should look for cameras that include a mobile app so you can view live feeds in high-definition, record and email clips, and receive notifications when your cameras sense motion. It’s nice when your mobile app also syncs with your comprehensive security and home automation system.       

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

Once you know what you want in a home security camera, it’s time to decide 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. But if you don't know the best spots for your cameras, or don’t understand the tech, it’s better to get professional installation. Experts, like Secure24 Alarm Systems, will place your cameras for maximum security and connect your cameras to the mobile app. You may also consider professional installation if your security cameras sync with a complete residential security system.

Buy The Best Home Security Cameras in Harrisburg With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Harrisburg come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply contact us at (717) 256-1545 or complete the form to get your complimentary quote. We’ll talk through your best options and how your cameras are an important piece of your home security system.