How to Choose a Solar Battery Camera for Your Home Security System
Rather than relying on traditional batteries that drain quickly and require frequent replacement, solar-powered security cameras run off renewable energy. These models include a battery pack that recharges during peak sun hours.
To choose the right model for your needs, read a camera spec sheet to determine the total wattage it requires. You should also look for a camera that offers smart home integration.
What is a Solar Battery Camera?
The solar battery camera is a wireless security camera that uses a rechargeable battery and built-in solar panel to power itself. It eliminates the need to install and maintain a separate power supply, saving you money in the long run. Some of the best solar battery cameras have features such as night vision, motion detection, and remote monitoring via smartphone apps.
If you’re thinking of purchasing a solar battery camera, look for one that offers a wide field of view to cover large areas and ensures a clear image in most conditions. Also, choose a model that offers a variety of power settings to control how much energy it draws, allowing you to keep it charged for longer.
Many leading security camera manufacturers offer solar panels that work with their products. For example, Arlo sells a bundle that includes a cam, battery pack, and solar panel. This is a better option than buying the camera and a separately sold panel since you can be sure that the batteries, cable connections, and mounts will all work together.
Other brands such as Ring and Wyze also sell standalone solar panels that you can use with your existing wire-free cameras. If you’re looking for a budget friendly option, try the EufyCam solar panel (about $60) that works with most cameras. However, it’s important to note that some warranties may be voided if you open your camera and replace its native battery with an external one.
The Benefits of Using a Solar Battery Camera
Unlike conventional security cameras that use backup batteries, solar battery cameras can work continuously on solar power alone. Since they don’t rely on grid energy, solar powered security cameras are also more reliable even during power outages.
In addition, since solar-powered security cameras rely on renewable energy, Solar Battery camera they’re more environmentally friendly. As a result, they help reduce carbon emissions and fossil fuel consumption, which is beneficial to the environment.
When choosing a solar camera, consider its wattage value to ensure it has enough energy capacity. Also, make sure to select a camera with high-quality solar panels and a battery that has a large capacity so it can store energy for a longer time. You should also look for a camera with a strong and sturdy case so it can withstand weather conditions and unauthorized attempts to remove it.
If you’re looking for a solar-powered camera that integrates with your smart home system, check for compatibility with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home. These systems will let you view your security footage on any smart display or TV. You should also look for a camera that can be controlled using voice commands so you can set it up or turn it off without using your hands. A solar-powered camera that’s compatible with these platforms can also let you control other devices like smart locks, lights, and appliances.
How to Install a Solar Battery Camera
The first step is to determine the power requirements of your camera. This can be done by looking at the equipment spec sheet or contacting the manufacturer directly. Next you will need to size the Solar Panel for your application. You will want to take into account the amount of Peak Sun Hours your location receives. You will also want to keep in mind the Battery Life you want your system to provide.
Ideally you will use a Deep Cycle Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery as they are less expensive and have good performance for solar energy storage. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePo4) Batteries offer higher performance and a longer lifespan but are more expensive.
Once you know the power requirements of your camera and have sized the solar panel you will need to add a Battery Charge Controller to your system. This is a device that sits between the Solar Panel and the Battery. It will regulate the Solar Battery camera input voltage of the Solar Panel and the output voltage of the Battery to prevent over charging or discharging.
Once the system is complete you will need to mount the Solar Panel in a location that gets sunlight. Ideally it will be mounted in a spot that can be rotated to optimize the sun angle. Make sure to regularly wipe the Solar Panel to remove any dust or dirt.
Solar Battery Camera Installation Tips
Choosing a solar battery camera gives you the option of a reliable, off-grid power solution for your home security system. However, installing a solar powered camera requires some planning and preparation. The first step is to identify your equipment’s power requirements. This includes any surveillance cameras, wireless routers, point to point radios, lighting and speakers you may want to power. Once you have determined the total power draw, you can determine how much energy the solar panel will need to generate on a daily basis.
The next step is to select a solar charge controller and battery that matches the power requirements of your home security system. You will also need to purchase a power inverter, which converts DC voltage into AC output. Lastly, you will need to wire the solar panel and battery to the load terminals of the solar charge controller. Make sure the positive (+) cable connects to the corresponding positive (+) terminal on the battery and the negative (-) cable connects to the corresponding negative (-) terminals on the solar charge controller.
Once all the components are connected, your Blink outdoor camera will be able to take power from the sun and operate day and night without worrying about running out of batteries. Just be aware that cold weather will reduce the performance of the battery. If you live in a climate that experiences below freezing temperatures, consider bringing your camera indoors to recharge on a daily basis.
