ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Des Moines, Ames, & Surrounding Areas
Outdoor camera in Des Moines
August 27, 2020

What To Ask About When Getting A New Home Security Camera In Des Moines

Most home security systems have at least one home security camera in Des Moines. However, with many different models and features for cameras, it's tough to know what’s really important in a camera. Do you purchase one from a retail store and install it yourself? Or is it better to get your cameras installed by a professional? Should you try to find one that broadcasts in full HD? How do you choose between an exterior camera attached to the overhang or a doorbell camera?

To answer these questions and more, here is what you should look for in a Des Moines home security camera.

Three types of security cameras in Des Moines

Types Of Home Security Cameras in Des Moines

There are three common types of home security cameras in Des Moines. Each type has a special type of use and should easily be included with your residential security system:

  • Outdoor home security camera: These types of cameras attach to the exterior of your house to offer a view of your property and main doors.

  • Indoor home security cameras: Indoor cameras hang from a wall or are placed on a level surface, and usually record one room within your home.

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

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

Visit the security camera aisle in a retail store, and you’ll quickly see that there’s a wide range of camera quality and specs. Here’s a rundown of features to look for in your home security camera:

  • Wide field of vision: You’ll likely want your camera to view as much area as possible. If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, there will be more blind spots and places where people can hide. Look for cameras with at least a 140° to 180° field of vision.

  • Low-light clarity: Your camera should be able to see what’s going on when it’s dark. Try to find a camera that includes infrared LEDs that offer nighttime illumination.

  • HD resolution: The days of pixelated blobs are behind you. Limit your search to cameras that record and broadcast in 720 high-definition or higher.

  • Exceptional construction: Your outside security cameras need to be able to withstand poor weather conditions like storms, heat, or frigid temperatures (some even include a built-in heater). Your indoor cameras should absorb shock 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 and recording space. Instead, try to find a security camera with motion sensors that begins to automatically record when it perceives motion.

  • Two-way communication: Doorbell cameras should have an intercom system so you can talk with visitors without opening the door. You can even find similar 2-way audio functionality with indoor or outdoor cameras as well.

  • Wireless install: A wireless camera can go almost anywhere outside or in your house, and can be moved if needed. Wireless placement is often preferable to wiring your camera to your home’s wiring.

  • An easy to use mobile app: How good is a security camera if it’s a pain to view its feeds? Try to find cameras with a mobile app that lets you view live feeds in high-definition, record and save clips, and get notifications when your cameras perceive movement. It’s nice when your security app also syncs with your complete security and home automation system.       

Should You Have Your Home Security Cameras Professionally Installed?

Once you have learned what you’re looking for in a residential security camera, you have to decide if you should get your cameras [[professionally installed|installed by a pro|installed by a professional. If you’re good with tools, you may see if you can DIY your install. But if you don't know the best places for your cameras, or can’t figure out the equipment, explore professional installation. Professionals, such as Secure24 Alarm Systems, know the best spots to place your cameras for complete security and walk you through the mobile app. You may also consider professional installation if your security cameras integrate with a complete home security system.

Buy The Best Home Security Cameras in Des Moines With Secure24 Alarm Systems

The best home security cameras with expert installation in Des Moines come from Secure24 Alarm Systems. Simply call (515) 212-6493 or complete the form below to receive your no-cost quote. We’ll talk through your your ideal options and how your cameras can become an important part of your residential security system.