The 7 Most Common Mistakes When Installing Security Cameras

Security cameras can help protect your home—but if you place them in the wrong locations, they might not be effective at all!

Home surveillance systems, including cameras and video doorbells, are becoming increasingly popular. While installing them is relatively simple, their effectiveness depends on strategic placement around your property. Poor placement can lead to false alerts, obstructed views, or even legal issues with neighbors.

Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when installing security cameras:

1. Installing Cameras in Private Areas

Avoid placing cameras in bathrooms, bedrooms, or other areas where privacy is expected. If you need a camera in such areas—for example, to monitor a bedroom in a shared living space—ensure it is clearly visible and inform everyone in the household.

2. Pointing Cameras at a Neighbor's Property

Be mindful of where your cameras are aimed. They should not capture areas like a neighbor's windows or backyard, as this violates their privacy rights. Many modern cameras offer "privacy zones" that let you block specific areas from being recorded.

3. Aiming at Hard-to-See Areas

It might seem smart to focus cameras on secluded spots, thinking burglars will target those areas. However, data from security firm ADT shows that most burglars enter through obvious access points, like the front door (34%) or first-floor windows (22%). Focus your cameras on these high-traffic entry points for maximum security.

4. Placing Cameras Near Obstacles

Check for obstacles like tree branches, vines, or seasonal foliage that could block the view. Indoors, ensure cameras have a clear line of sight, unobstructed by furniture or doors. If you have pets, secure cameras out of their reach to prevent them from being knocked over or shifted.

5. Positioning Cameras Behind Windows

Placing a camera behind a window might seem like a good idea, but it often backfires. Glare from sunlight, rain, or dust on the glass can distort the view. Additionally, visibility angles from inside the window are limited, reducing the camera's effectiveness.

6. Using Wide-Angle Coverage Improperly

While it's tempting to position a camera to cover a large area, this can reduce image sharpness and make it harder to spot details. For better results, focus cameras on specific areas, even if it means installing multiple devices to cover all critical zones.

7. Placing Cameras Near Heat Sources

Avoid installing cameras near heaters, fireplaces, ventilation grilles, or dryer vents. Heat and exhaust can degrade camera performance by causing dirt buildup or damaging the battery in wireless models. Over time, this can reduce image quality and shorten the camera's lifespan.