Amcrest Camera Weather Damage? What to Do Next
Amcrest outdoor cameras are built to be tough and withstand the elements. With high IP (Ingress Protection) ratings like IP66 and IP67, they are designed to be resistant to dust, rain, and snow. However, under extreme weather conditions or due to improper installation, damage can still occur.
If your camera has stopped working after a heavy storm or is showing signs of a foggy lens, this guide will help you identify the symptoms of weather damage and advise you on the necessary steps to take.
Identifying the Signs of Weather Damage
Weather damage primarily falls into two categories: water ingress and damage from extreme heat or sun exposure.
Symptoms of Water Damage:
- Condensation Inside the Lens: This is the most definitive sign. You will see fog, mist, or visible water droplets on the inside of the glass lens cover.
- Blurry or Obstructed Image: The video feed may appear permanently out of focus, hazy, or as if you're looking through a dirty window.
- Complete Failure: The camera may go completely offline and become unresponsive, especially after a period of heavy rain. It will not power on and will be undiscoverable on your network.
- IR Night Vision Failure: The infrared LEDs that provide night vision may stop working, resulting in a black screen in low-light conditions.
- Distorted Colours: The image may show strange colour casts, lines, or other visual artefacts caused by short-circuiting components.
Symptoms of Heat or Sun Damage:
- Cracked or Brittle Housing: The plastic casing may become brittle and develop cracks after long-term exposure to direct, intense sunlight.
- Discoloured Casing: The camera's housing may become yellowed or faded.
- Image Sensor Damage: In extreme cases, pointing the camera directly at the sun for long periods can permanently damage the image sensor, causing a permanent dark spot or distortion in the video.
Immediate Steps to Take for Water Damage
If you suspect your camera has suffered water ingress, you must act quickly to prevent further damage, though a full recovery is often unlikely.
- Disconnect Power Immediately: The most crucial step is to remove all power from the camera. Unplug the Ethernet cable if you are using Power over Ethernet (PoE) or disconnect the DC power adapter. This helps prevent electrical short circuits that cause permanent damage.
- Bring the Camera Indoors: Carefully unmount the camera and bring it inside to a dry location.
- Attempt to Dry the Unit: Gently pat the exterior of the camera dry with a soft cloth. If you are comfortable doing so and the warranty is already void, you might consider opening any accessible compartments (like an SD card slot) to improve airflow. Place the camera in a warm, dry area (not in direct heat) for several days. Some people have limited success by placing the device in an airtight container with desiccants like silica gel packets.
Important Note: In most cases, once water has entered the sealed housing of an Amcrest camera, the sensitive internal electronics are irreversibly damaged by corrosion. The above steps are a last-ditch effort, but you should be prepared for the camera to be a total loss.
Preventing Future Weather Damage
Prevention is always the best strategy. When installing a new outdoor camera, pay close attention to the following:
- Verify the IP Rating: For fully exposed locations, choose a camera with at least an IP66 rating. An IP67 rating provides even greater protection and can withstand temporary submersion.
- Proper Installation: Mount the camera according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure any adjustable parts are tightened and that the base is flush against the mounting surface.
- Protect Cable Connections: Use the supplied weatherproof connector shield for the Ethernet connection. This is a critical component that protects the most vulnerable point from moisture.
- Strategic Placement: If possible, install the camera in a partially protected location, such as under the eaves of your roof. This will shield it from the worst of the rain and direct sunlight, extending its lifespan.
If your camera is damaged, it's rarely economical to repair it. The best course of action is to invest in a new, high-quality outdoor camera and ensure it is installed with meticulous attention to weatherproofing.