What to Do When Your Axis Camera Is Not Weatherproof
Axis cameras are renowned for their quality and performance, but not all models are designed to withstand the harshness of the British weather. Placing a non-weatherproof camera outdoors without adequate protection can lead to irreversible damage from rain, humidity, and dust. This guide offers professional advice on how to identify the risks and properly protect your investment.
## Understanding Weatherproof Ratings (IP Ratings)
Before installing any camera outdoors, it's crucial to understand its Ingress Protection (IP) rating. This two-digit number defines how well the device is sealed against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water).
- First Digit (Solids): Ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (completely dust-tight).
- Second Digit (Liquids): Ranges from 0 (no protection) to 8 (can be submerged in water).
An indoor Axis camera may have a low rating like IP20, making it vulnerable to even small amounts of moisture. An outdoor Axis camera will have a rating of at least IP66, signifying it is dust-tight and can withstand powerful jets of water. Never assume a camera is weatherproof without checking its official specifications.
## Symptoms of a Non-Weatherproof Camera Failing Outdoors
If an indoor-rated camera is exposed to the elements, you will begin to see clear signs of damage.
### Symptom 1: Moisture Inside the Lens or Housing
This is the most common and obvious sign of a problem.
- Condensation: A foggy or misty appearance on the inside of the lens cover, which obscures the video image. This is caused by temperature changes forcing moisture inside the housing to condense.
- Visible Water Droplets: You can actually see beads of water inside the camera's dome or casing. This indicates a significant breach of the camera's seals.
### Symptom 2: Corrosion and Physical Damage
Moisture leads to the slow destruction of the camera's components.
- Rust: Corrosion forming on the metallic connectors, screws, or mounting brackets. This weakens the camera's structural integrity and can sever electrical connections.
- Damaged Seals: The rubber or foam gaskets around the camera's casing may become brittle, cracked, or dislodged, allowing more moisture to enter.
### Symptom 3: Malfunctions and Power Failures
Water and electronics do not mix.
- Intermittent Performance: The camera may work sporadically, often failing during or immediately after rainfall or in high humidity.
- Complete Failure: Eventually, the internal circuit boards will short-circuit, leading to a total and often permanent failure of the device.
## How to Properly Protect Your Axis Camera
If you need to place an Axis camera in an outdoor or exposed location, you must take the correct precautions.
- Use the Correct Model: The best solution is always to use a camera designed for the environment. Select an Axis model with an appropriate IP rating (e.g., IP66 or higher) for outdoor use.
- Install an Outdoor Housing: If you must use an indoor-rated model outdoors, you must place it inside a dedicated third-party outdoor housing. These enclosures are specifically designed to be weatherproof and can protect the camera inside from the elements.
- Ensure Proper Installation: Even on outdoor-rated cameras, proper installation is key. Make sure all cable glands, seals, and gaskets are correctly tightened and seated as per the manufacturer's instructions. A poorly sealed cable entry point is a common cause of water ingress.
- Avoid DIY Solutions: Do not use silicone sealant or other adhesives to try and weatherproof a camera. These methods often trap moisture inside the housing, which can cause even more damage through condensation. Always rely on the manufacturer's intended sealing mechanisms.