Home security is a hot topic. As highlighted in our round-up of shocking burglary statistics, there’s a burglary every 30 seconds in the US.
Everyone wants a safe, secure, and protected household. With doorbell cameras, motion light sensors, and advanced security systems with infrared night vision, homeowners can reduce the chances of break-ins and better prepare themselves for the worst case scenario.
Despite their benefits, every system has its downsides, and it’s worth considering all aspects before investing in a solution.
Keep reading to discover are home security cameras worth it and how effective home security systems are.
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What are the Pros of Security Cameras?
Investing in security cameras is one of the best ways to deter burglars and keep families safe. Setting up cameras is an investment, but it isn’t always a costly one. Wireless cameras are significantly easier and cheaper to install than wired cameras, but both systems have their benefits, including:
1. Deters Intruders
According to a study conducted by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, over 80% of burglars admitted to looking for security systems before targeting a property, with 60% saying an alarm would change their minds about breaking in.
No study has been completed to determine the exact figure that security cameras deter intruders, but it’s clear that having one could reduce the likelihood of a home becoming a target.
2. Prevents Stolen Deliveries
With almost 50% of Americans falling victim to package theft at some point in their lives, stolen packages are a problem most people will experience in their lives.
Many businesses will redeliver an item if it’s been stolen, but some won’t unless sufficient evidence of the theft is provided. Without a security camera to capture the snatch, it’s hard to succeed in a porch-pirate claim.
Results from the 2020 study showed that stolen parcels cost the average person $136. But package theft is more than just a costly experience. It’s an inconvenience. Having a security camera fitted directly over the porch can deter parcel theft and catch it in the act if it does happen.
Repurposing your old phones as security cameras
AlfredCamera is a lightweight security option for homeowners everywhere. Simply download the app on an old device, position the camera in a good spot, and get an instant home security camera. Available with free and premium features, it’s a quick, easy, and affordable home security solution. Follow this step-by-step guide to repurpose your spare phone as a security camera and have peace of mind when you’re away.
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3. Protects Against Door-To-Door Scams
Door-to-door scams are rife, and, unfortunately, older people are usually a primary target. Investing in a security camera can protect older parents or in-laws against door-to-door scams.
Firstly, scammers don’t want their faces appearing on camera as evidence for the cops, so having a camera can deter them from knocking.
Secondly, having a camera fitted to a relative’s doorbell allows for remote monitoring, allowing users to step in if they notice something suspicious.
4. Provides Evidence
Should an intruder break in, steal a vehicle, or swipe a package, security camera users will have indisputable evidence of the entire incident. This can save both time and money in the long run.
Users can easily compile the video footage of the event for insurance purposes or as evidence for a criminal investigation.
5. Keeps Family Safe
Having a home security camera can keep families safe. Because cameras and systems can deter break-ins entirely, users can have more peace of mind while at work, on vacation, or even when relaxing at home with the doors open during the summer.
Plus, when children are home alone or if there are older relatives indoors all day, having a camera that monitors who’s at the door can ensure they won’t be at risk of harm or a financial scam.
What are the Cons of Security Cameras?
There are very few downsides to getting a home security system, and the benefits always outweigh any negatives. Different types of security systems offer different solutions, so finding the right camera often depends on what features you need most. Regardless of the brand, all security cameras have their flaws, including:
1. Vulnerable Spots
Setting up security cameras properly and deciding how many cameras are needed is important. The best positions are around front doors, side doors, backdoors, garages, and in the direction of parked vehicles.
However, every camera can still have vulnerable spots. Investing in 360 surveillance is expensive and largely unnecessary for a standard property. It can also make intruders think that there’s something particularly valuable to protect.
Plus, certain cameras can be subject to other vulnerabilities. For example, cameras that operate on Wi-Fi won’t work when the signal is down. Others that run on the main electrical system will be down during a power cut.
Regardless of these vulnerabilities, the likelihood of a break-in during these moments can be low, and the benefits outweigh the downsides.
2. Won’t Stop Intruders Entirely
As presented by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, most intruders will look for security cameras, alarms, and systems before making a move on a property. But there’s still a small percentage that will break in regardless (around 20%, according to the research).
Naturally, nothing can prevent vehicle thefts, porch piracy, or break-ins entirely, not even the most robust cameras and security systems. But they can significantly reduce the chances of it happening. Ultimately, having a security camera doesn’t put the user at greater risk of being burglarized than not having one.
3. Limits Privacy
One of the biggest cons of a home security camera is that it can disrupt the privacy of a home. Fitting cameras to the doorbells, porches, and backdoors of an elderly relative’s home will offer protection, but can limit the privacy they have. This can be distressing to those that are diagnosed with dementia.
These issues are minor when compared to the safety and security home cameras can offer, and it’s usually easy to find a workaround by temporarily turning the cameras off and always obtaining the express consent of those that will be recorded before installing devices.
Is it Better to Have Wired or Wireless Security Cameras?
Choosing between a wired vs wireless camera depends on many factors. Both types of home security cameras offer safety, security, and added protection, but they have different benefits depending on what’s needed.
Firstly, wireless cameras are significantly easier to set up and install. These cameras are rechargeable and most use Wi-Fi to run. These types of cameras are typically less expensive to purchase and install.
The downsides to wireless cameras are that they need charging and will require a strong Wi-Fi signal. However, most security cameras notify users when the battery is low. How often wireless security cameras need charging depends on the type of camera.
Some wireless cameras don’t use Wi-Fi and come with a mobile data plan instead. These won’t lose signal unless the network is down, which is highly unlikely.
On the flip side, wired cameras will always be online, provided the electrical supply is working and there aren’t any prolonged power cuts. But fitting them isn’t as easy.
The home electrical supply will need to be rerouted to connect the cameras, which, according to Home Guide, can cost the average homeowner between $150-500 per wired camera.
Do Security Cameras Use a Lot of Electricity?
No, security cameras don’t use lots of electricity. A typical CCTV camera consumes around 4-15 watts per hour. Generally, IP security cameras are very energy efficient because they are designed to be online 24/7.
For comparison (according to Don Rowe), a clock radio uses between 10-50 watts per hour, and a washing machine between 500-1,000, so a security camera’s electricity usage is negligible, despite it running constantly.
Conclusion
Feeling safe at home is so important, and security cameras can provide reassurance that you and your family are protected, even if the worst happens. Plus, most home security systems are easy to install, especially wireless cameras.
Despite the few cons, there isn’t really a downside to installing a home security system. Ultimately, anything that keeps both family and personal possessions safe is worth it. Learn more about how home security systems work and how many security cameras you need.