Is Your Uniview Camera Not Weatherproof? A Protection Guide
Uniview (UNV) cameras are known for their professional-grade quality and durability. However, even the toughest cameras can fall victim to the elements if not installed and protected correctly. If you're experiencing issues like a foggy lens or camera failure after rain, this guide will help you understand the principles of weatherproofing and how to protect your investment.
### Understanding Ingress Protection (IP) Ratings
The first step in weatherproofing is understanding your camera's capabilities. This is defined by its IP rating.
An IP rating consists of two numbers:
- First Digit (Solids): Rates the protection against solid objects, from fingers down to microscopic dust. A '6' is the highest rating, meaning it is completely dust-tight.
- Second Digit (Liquids): Rates the protection against water. This is the crucial number for weatherproofing.
Here's a quick breakdown for outdoor cameras:
- IP65: Protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. Suitable for most sheltered outdoor locations.
- IP66: Protected against powerful water jets. Ideal for more exposed locations where it might be hit by driving rain.
- IP67: Protected against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 metre for 30 minutes). This is a very high level of protection.
Action: Check the specification sheet for your Uniview camera model. If it has a rating of IP66 or IP67, it is designed for outdoor use. If not, it should be installed indoors or in a fully protected location.
Common Points of Failure and How to Prevent Them
Even a highly-rated camera can fail if installed improperly. Water is persistent and will find any weak point.
### 1. Cable Connections
The most vulnerable part of any outdoor camera installation is where the cables connect. The pigtail cable on a Uniview camera often has an Ethernet (RJ45) port, a power input, and sometimes audio/alarm connections.
- The Problem: These connections are not waterproof on their own. Water getting into the Ethernet port will cause corrosion and a total loss of signal.
- The Solution:
- Use the Included Weatherproof Gland: Your camera came with a small plastic connector for the Ethernet cable. Use it! It creates a compression seal around the cable to keep water out.
- Use a Junction Box: The best professional practice is to house all cable connections inside a waterproof junction box. The camera can then be mounted directly onto the lid of the box, creating a fully sealed and protected installation.
### 2. Camera Seals and Housing
Your camera's housing is sealed with rubber gaskets to keep moisture out.
- The Problem: Over time, or if the camera is opened incorrectly, these seals can be compromised. Power-washing a camera directly can also force water past these seals.
- The Solution:
- When installing, ensure all parts of the housing (like the base and the dome cover) are screwed together firmly and evenly to ensure the gasket creates a proper seal.
- Regularly inspect the camera for any signs of cracking or perishing rubber seals, especially in areas with high sun exposure.
### 3. Wall Penetration and Mounting
How the cables enter your property is also critical.
- The Problem: If the hole drilled through the wall is not sealed, water can run down the cable and straight into your wall cavity, or into the back of the camera.
- The Solution:
- Create a Drip Loop: Always arrange your cables so they dip down lower than the hole before rising back up to enter. This ensures rainwater drips off the bottom of the loop instead of flowing into the hole.
- Use Silicone Sealant: After passing the cables through, seal the hole on the outside with a high-quality, outdoor-rated silicone sealant.
What to Do If You Suspect Water Damage
If your camera's image is foggy or it's malfunctioning, you may already have water inside.
- Immediately power down the camera.
- Bring the unit indoors and place it in a warm, dry area for at least 48 hours to allow it to dry out.
- Inspect the connections for any signs of green or white corrosion.
- If the camera still doesn't work after drying, the internal components may be permanently damaged, and you should contact your supplier or a professional for assessment.