Is Your Yale Camera at Risk from the Weather?
Yale security cameras are excellent tools for keeping an eye on your property. However, it's crucial to understand that not all cameras are built to withstand the same conditions. Using a camera designed for the controlled environment of your home in an outdoor setting can lead to damage and failure.
If you're concerned that your Yale camera is not weatherproof or have noticed performance issues after bad weather, this guide will help you identify the signs of damage and explain what you can do to protect your investment.
Understanding Weatherproofing: Indoor vs. Outdoor Cameras
The key difference lies in the construction.
- Indoor Cameras: These are designed for stable temperatures and humidity levels. They lack the robust seals needed to keep out water, dust, and insects.
- Outdoor Cameras: These are built with durable, sealed housings to protect the sensitive electronics inside from the elements. They are given an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, such as IP65, which certifies their resistance to dust and water.
Using an indoor camera outdoors, even in a seemingly sheltered spot, exposes it to humidity, condensation, and temperature swings that can cause irreversible damage.
Signs of Weather Damage to Your Camera
If your camera has been exposed to the elements, look for these tell-tale signs.
- Condensation Inside the Lens: This is the most common and obvious sign. Fog or water droplets visible behind the lens glass indicate that moisture has breached the housing. This will lead to blurry footage and eventual electronic failure.
- Corrosion: Check the power connectors, mounting brackets, and any exposed screws. The appearance of rust or white, powdery residue is a clear sign of moisture damage.
- Malfunctions After Rain: Does the camera's video feed cut out, or does it stop working entirely after it rains or during periods of high humidity? This is a strong indicator that water is getting inside.
- Discoloured or Brittle Casing: Sunlight and temperature changes can make the plastic casing of an indoor camera become brittle, yellow, and cracked over time, compromising its structure.
- Muffled Audio: If water has entered the microphone opening, the sound from your camera will be distorted or muffled.
How to Protect Your Yale Camera
If you suspect your camera is not weatherproof, or if you are using an indoor model in a sheltered outdoor area, here are some steps you can take.
1. Relocate the Camera Immediately
If you have an indoor camera outside, the best course of action is to bring it inside. Find a new position for it indoors where it can still provide a valuable view, for instance, looking out of a window. Note: Pointing a camera through glass will cause glare from the infrared (IR) LEDs at night, so night vision will not be effective.
2. Use a Protective Housing
If you absolutely must place a camera in a location with some exposure, consider purchasing a third-party silicone skin or weatherproof housing. These covers can offer an extra layer of protection against moisture and UV rays, but they are not a guaranteed solution for an indoor-rated camera.
3. Check Your Model and Upgrade if Necessary
Verify the model of your Yale camera. Check its official product page or manual for an IP rating. If it does not have one, it is not designed for outdoor use. The most reliable and long-term solution is to invest in a dedicated Yale outdoor camera. This will give you peace of mind that your security system is robust and built for the job.
By understanding the limitations of your equipment and taking proactive steps, you can ensure your Yale security system remains effective for years to come.