Is Your Somfy Camera a Victim of the Great British Weather?
It's a common scenario: you've invested in a Somfy security camera to keep an eye on your property, but after a heavy downpour, the image is foggy, distorted, or the camera has stopped working altogether. Water damage is a serious issue for any electronic device, but don't panic. This guide will help you troubleshoot the problem and take the necessary steps to protect your device.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you believe your Somfy camera has been exposed to excessive moisture, acting quickly is crucial.
- Power Down Immediately: The most important first step is to disconnect the camera from its power source. This will help prevent electrical short circuits, which can cause permanent damage.
- Bring It Inside: Carefully remove the camera from its mounting and bring it indoors.
- Dry the Exterior: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any visible water from the camera's housing, lens, and cables.
Assessing the Extent of the Damage
Once the camera is in a safe, dry place, you need to look for specific signs of water ingress. Understanding the symptoms can help you determine your next course of action.
Common Symptoms of Water Damage
- Condensation Inside the Lens: A foggy or hazy appearance in your video feed is a classic sign that moisture has breached the camera's seals. You may see tiny water droplets on the inside of the lens glass.
- Blurry or Distorted Video: Water on the lens or sensor can cause the image to become blurry, warped, or otherwise unclear.
- Camera Goes Offline: The camera may lose its connection to your network and appear as "offline" in the Somfy app. This could indicate that internal components have been short-circuited.
- Malfunctioning Night Vision: The infrared (IR) LEDs that enable night vision are sensitive to moisture. If your night vision is blurry, dim, or not working at all, water damage could be the culprit.
- Visible Corrosion: Check the camera's ports and connectors for any signs of rust or green/white corrosive buildup.
Troubleshooting and Potential Solutions
While severe water damage often requires professional attention, here are some steps you can take to try and salvage your camera.
The Drying Out Process
Patience is key. Do not be tempted to power the camera back on too soon.
- Air Drying: Place the camera in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated room. Airing cupboards can be ideal. Leave it there for at least 48-72 hours to allow any internal moisture to evaporate naturally.
- Using Desiccants: For a more effective solution, place the camera in an airtight container filled with silica gel packets (the kind you find in new shoe boxes or electronics packaging). These are designed to absorb moisture from the air. Avoid using uncooked rice, as rice dust can get inside the camera and cause more problems.
After Drying: Testing the Camera
Once you are confident the camera is completely dry, you can attempt to power it back on. Use the original power adapter and connect it to your network. Check the video feed in the Somfy app and test its functions. If it works, you've been lucky! If it doesn't, or if some features are still not working correctly, it's likely the damage is permanent.
Prevention: The Best Form of Defence
Protecting your Somfy camera from the elements is far easier than trying to repair it.
- Strategic Placement: Install your camera in a sheltered spot, such as under the eaves of your roof, a porch, or a carport. This provides a physical barrier against the worst of the rain.
- Check the Seals: Before installation, and periodically afterwards, inspect the rubber or silicone seals around the lens, cable entry points, and any access panels. Ensure they are clean, properly seated, and not cracked or brittle.
- Protect Connections: Ensure that any power or network cable connections are not exposed to the elements. Using a weatherproof junction box can provide an extra layer of protection.
- Consider a Protective Housing: For very exposed locations, you might consider purchasing a third-party weatherproof housing or a silicone "skin" that can offer additional protection against moisture.
If your camera is still under warranty and you suspect water damage due to a manufacturing defect, contact Somfy support to discuss your options.