How to Stop Guardzilla False Notifications
Receiving a constant stream of notifications from your Guardzilla security camera can be more annoying than helpful. Alerts for passing cars, swaying trees, or changing shadows can make you start ignoring them altogether, which defeats the purpose of having a security system. This guide will help you troubleshoot and reduce the number of false notifications you receive.
The key to solving this issue is understanding that your camera's motion sensor is often looking for changes in heat and light. By controlling its environment and adjusting its settings, you can teach it what is important and what it should ignore.
Common Causes of False Alerts
If you are getting too many notifications, it is likely due to one of these common triggers:
- Trees, bushes, or flags moving in the wind.
- Shadows moving across the camera's field of view as the sun changes position.
- Headlights from cars passing by at night.
- Reflections from windows or other shiny surfaces.
- Small animals, pets, or even large insects near the camera.
- Heat sources like vents or air conditioning units.
- Heavy rain, snow, or dust.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reducing False Notifications
Follow these steps to fine-tune your camera's performance and ensure you only get alerts that matter.
1. Adjust Motion Detection Sensitivity
This is the most effective tool for controlling false alerts. A high sensitivity setting will make the camera react to the smallest movements.
- Open the Guardzilla App: Navigate to the specific camera you want to adjust.
- Go to Settings: Find the 'Settings' or 'Configuration' menu for that camera.
- Locate Sensitivity Control: Look for a setting labelled 'Motion Sensitivity' or 'Motion Detection'.
- Lower the Setting: You will likely see options such as 'Low', 'Medium', and 'High'. If it's on 'High', reduce it to 'Medium'. If it's on 'Medium', try 'Low'.
- Test the Changes: Allow some time to see how the new setting affects the number of notifications. You may need to experiment to find the perfect balance.
2. Reposition Your Camera
The camera's placement and angle can have a huge impact on what it 'sees'.
- Avoid Busy Areas: Try to angle the camera away from busy streets, pavements, or neighbours' properties. Point it towards the specific areas you want to monitor, like your driveway or front door.
- Check for Environmental Triggers: Look for sources of movement in the camera's view. Can you trim a tree branch that's blowing in front of the lens? Can you angle the camera to avoid a reflection from a window?
- Consider the Sun's Path: Be mindful of where the sun rises and sets. Direct sunlight or dramatic shadow changes can trigger alerts. Avoid pointing the camera directly at the sun.
3. Keep the Camera Lens Clean
A smudged or dirty lens can cause issues with how the camera interprets light and motion.
- Use a Microfibre Cloth: Gently wipe the lens to remove any dust, fingerprints, water spots, or cobwebs.
- Check for Obstructions: Make sure nothing is blocking the lens or the infrared (IR) sensors used for night vision.
4. Ensure Firmware is Up to Date
Manufacturers often release firmware updates that can improve the motion detection algorithms and overall camera performance.
- Check in the App: Go to the camera's settings in the Guardzilla app and look for a 'Firmware Update' or 'Device Info' section.
- Install Any Updates: If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
By taking a systematic approach to adjusting sensitivity, optimising placement, and keeping your device maintained, you can dramatically reduce the number of false notifications from your Guardzilla camera.