Is Your Scout Security System Weatherproof?
Scout offers a flexible, customisable DIY home security system that is brilliant for monitoring the inside of your home. But what about protecting the outside? If you've considered placing a sensor on a garden gate, a shed door, or in a covered patio area, you've likely asked the question: are Scout devices weatherproof?
This guide will clarify the weather resistance of the Scout security system components and provide practical advice on how to secure your home's exterior without damaging your equipment.
## Understanding Weatherproof Ratings
It's important to understand what "weatherproof" means. Electronic devices are often given an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, like IP65. The first digit rates protection against solids (like dust), and the second digit rates protection against liquids (like water).
- Indoor Devices: Typically have no IP rating and are not designed to resist dust or moisture.
- Weather-Resistant/Weatherproof Devices: Have IP ratings (e.g., IP65, IP66) that certify they can withstand specific environmental conditions like rain, dust, and temperature fluctuations.
## Are Scout Components Weatherproof?
Let's break down the different parts of the Scout system.
- Scout Hub: Indoor use only. The hub is the brain of your system and must be kept in a dry, climate-controlled environment. It has no weather resistance.
- Door/Window Sensors (Access Sensors): Indoor use only. These are not sealed against moisture. Rain or even high humidity can damage the internal circuitry and cause false alarms or complete failure.
- Motion Sensors: Indoor use only. The passive infrared (PIR) technology in these sensors is not designed to work in environments with rapid temperature changes and can be damaged by moisture.
- Glass Break Sensors & Keypads: Indoor use only. Like the other core components, these are not designed to be exposed to the elements.
- Scout Outdoor Camera: Yes, this is weatherproof. The Scout Outdoor Camera is specifically designed with a sealed, durable housing to withstand rain, snow, and a range of temperatures. It is the only component in the Scout ecosystem officially rated for outdoor installation.
## Risks of Using Indoor Sensors Outdoors
Placing an indoor sensor outside, even in a seemingly sheltered location, is a significant risk.
- Moisture Damage: Rain, dew, and humidity can cause short circuits, leading to sensor failure.
- Temperature Extremes: The operational temperature range for indoor electronics is limited. Extreme cold can drastically reduce battery life, while intense heat can damage components.
- UV Damage: Direct sunlight can degrade the plastic housing over time, making it brittle and prone to cracking, which would then allow moisture inside.
- False Alarms: Environmental factors like wind, rain, and rapid temperature changes can trigger false alarms from sensors not designed to filter them out.
- Voided Warranty: Damage caused by using a device outside of its specified operating environment will not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
## Solutions for Outdoor Monitoring with Scout
So, how can you monitor your home's exterior?
- Use the Scout Outdoor Camera: This is the most straightforward and reliable method. It's designed for the job, integrates seamlessly with your system, and is built to last in outdoor conditions.
- Monitor Entry Points: While you can't put a sensor on an outdoor gate, you can place an access sensor on the door leading from your garden or patio into your house. This secures the perimeter of your home itself.
- "Garage" and "Shed" Use: You can safely use standard Scout sensors inside a detached garage or a well-sealed shed. As long as the interior remains dry and protected from the elements, the sensors will function correctly.
- DIY Weatherproofing (Use with Caution): For the technically adventurous, it is sometimes possible to place an indoor access sensor inside a small, sealed, weatherproof project box (available from electronics suppliers). This can protect it from direct rain. However, this is not an official solution, and condensation can still form inside the box, potentially causing damage. This approach is not supported by Scout and should be considered an at-your-own-risk project.
In summary, for reliable and warrantied outdoor security, stick with the purpose-built Scout Outdoor Camera. For all other sensors, keep them safe and dry indoors.