Faced with the rise in burglaries, installing a security camera has become a common-sense reflex. But for it to be truly deterrent and effective, it must be properly installed. Wrong angle, unstable mount, camera too visible or poorly adjusted: all these mistakes can make your security system ineffective.
Here are the best practices to know to effectively protect your home or business.
Mistakes to Avoid When Installing
Installing a security camera is not complicated in itself, but there are pitfalls to avoid if you want usable footage in case of a break-in:
- Placing the camera too high or too low: this distorts the viewing angle
- Fixing it hastily: it may move or fall
- Pointing it toward a direct light source: backlighting guaranteed
- Installing it without considering its actual field of view
- Neglecting weather protection for outdoor installations
These mistakes can make your recordings useless. To do it right, you need to consider three things: the right angle, the right location, and a secure mount.
Where to Place Your Camera to Make It Deterrent
A burglar rarely acts randomly. They observe the premises, look for blind spots, and check for security equipment. To deter them at first glance, your camera should be:
- visible, but out of immediate reach
- aimed at entry points (doors, windows, garage)
- placed at a height between 2.5 and 3 meters
Ideally, cover the following areas:
- Main entrance
- Gate or driveway
- Garage door
- Sliding doors or terrace
- Dark or rarely used areas
Indoors, focus on high-traffic areas (hallway, stairs, entrance).
Standard Installation vs. Optimized Installation
| Criterion | Standard Installation | Optimized Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Too low or too high | Between 2.5 and 3 m, depending on the area to cover |
| Viewing angle | Poorly adjusted | Precise tilt and wide coverage |
| Mount | Placed on a shelf | Securely fixed to wall or ceiling |
| Wiring | Visible and accessible | Hidden, protected, hard to reach |
| Weather resistance | Not checked | Camera and mount designed for outdoor use |
Choose the Right Mount for a Stable Installation
A well-mounted camera is a useful camera. Many homeowners neglect this aspect and end up with shaky or poorly framed footage. For a higher quality installation, camera mounts and enclosures are designed to ensure:
- solid attachment to all types of surfaces
- protection against shocks or tampering
- aesthetic integration, both indoors and outdoors
This is an often-overlooked accessory but essential for a reliable long-term installation.
And After? Check Your Installation
Once the camera is installed, don’t just start recording. Check:
- image quality both day and night
- proper activation of motion detection
- actual field of view captured by the lens
- sturdiness of the mount, even in wind or rain
These checks take 10 minutes but will save you from unpleasant surprises at the crucial moment.
