When it comes to securing your home, outdoor surveillance cameras play a crucial role in deterring potential intruders and providing valuable evidence in case of a break-in. Arlo cameras, in particular, are popular for their wireless design, weather resistance, and high-quality video feed. However, to get the most out of your Arlo camera, it’s essential to mount it in the right location outside your home. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to mount your Arlo camera outside, taking into account factors like visibility, coverage, and weather protection.
Understanding Arlo Camera Placement Considerations
Before we dive into the best locations for mounting your Arlo camera, it’s essential to consider a few key factors that will impact its performance and effectiveness.
Weather Resistance
Arlo cameras are designed to be weather-resistant, but they’re not invincible. When choosing a location, make sure it provides some protection from the elements, such as a roof overhang or a covered porch. Avoid mounting your camera in direct sunlight, as this can cause overheating and reduce its lifespan.
Power Supply
Since Arlo cameras are wireless, you’ll need to ensure they’re within range of your Wi-Fi network. If you plan to mount your camera in a remote location, consider investing in a Wi-Fi range extender to ensure a stable connection.
Field of View
The field of view refers to the area your camera can capture. When choosing a location, consider the width and depth of the area you want to monitor. A wider field of view may require a different camera model or a more strategic mounting location.
Best Locations for Mounting Arlo Camera Outside
Now that we’ve covered the key considerations, let’s explore the best locations for mounting your Arlo camera outside.
Front Door
The front door is one of the most common entry points for intruders, making it an ideal location for an Arlo camera. Mount your camera above the door, about 8-10 feet off the ground, to capture a clear view of visitors and potential intruders.
Back Door or Patio
If you have a back door or patio, consider mounting an Arlo camera in this location to monitor activity in your backyard. This is especially important if you have a gate or fence that could be vulnerable to intruders.
Corners of Your Home
Mounting an Arlo camera at the corner of your home can provide a wide field of view, allowing you to monitor multiple areas at once. This is especially effective for monitoring driveways, sidewalks, or other high-traffic areas.
Garage or Shed
If you have a garage or shed, consider mounting an Arlo camera to monitor activity in these areas. This can help deter theft and provide valuable evidence in case of a break-in.
Driveway or Gate
Mounting an Arlo camera at the entrance to your driveway or gate can help monitor activity and deter potential intruders. This is especially important if you live in a rural area or have a long driveway.
Additional Tips for Mounting Arlo Camera Outside
In addition to choosing the right location, there are a few more tips to keep in mind when mounting your Arlo camera outside.
Use a Weather-Resistant Mount
Arlo offers a range of weather-resistant mounts designed specifically for outdoor use. These mounts can help protect your camera from the elements and ensure a stable connection.
Position the Camera for Optimal View
When mounting your camera, make sure it’s positioned for an optimal view. Experiment with different angles and heights to find the best view of the area you’re monitoring.
Secure the Camera
To prevent theft or tampering, make sure to secure your Arlo camera to the mounting surface. Use screws or other fasteners to ensure the camera is tightly attached.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mounting Arlo Camera Outside
When mounting your Arlo camera outside, there are a few common mistakes to avoid.
Mounting the Camera Too Low
Mounting your camera too low can make it vulnerable to tampering or theft. Make sure to mount it at a height that’s difficult for intruders to reach.
Mounting the Camera in Direct Sunlight
As mentioned earlier, direct sunlight can cause overheating and reduce the lifespan of your Arlo camera. Make sure to mount it in a location that provides some shade or protection from the sun.
Not Securing the Camera
Failing to secure your Arlo camera can make it vulnerable to theft or tampering. Make sure to use screws or other fasteners to ensure the camera is tightly attached to the mounting surface.
Conclusion
Mounting your Arlo camera outside requires careful consideration of factors like visibility, coverage, and weather protection. By choosing the right location and following the tips outlined in this article, you can maximize your home’s security and enjoy peace of mind. Remember to avoid common mistakes like mounting the camera too low or in direct sunlight, and make sure to secure it to the mounting surface. With the right placement and installation, your Arlo camera can provide valuable surveillance and help protect your home and family.
Location | Benefits | Considerations |
---|---|---|
Front Door | Capture a clear view of visitors and potential intruders | Mount above the door, about 8-10 feet off the ground |
Back Door or Patio | Monitor activity in your backyard | Mount in a location that provides a clear view of the area |
Corners of Your Home | Provide a wide field of view, allowing you to monitor multiple areas at once | Mount in a location that provides a clear view of the surrounding area |
Garage or Shed | Monitor activity in these areas and deter theft | Mount in a location that provides a clear view of the area |
Driveway or Gate | Monitor activity and deter potential intruders | Mount in a location that provides a clear view of the area |
By following these guidelines and considering the unique layout of your home, you can find the perfect location for your Arlo camera and enjoy enhanced security and peace of mind.
What are the key considerations when mounting an Arlo camera outside?
When mounting an Arlo camera outside, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to choose a location that provides a clear view of the area you want to monitor. This might include entrance points, such as doors and windows, as well as any areas where valuables are stored. You’ll also want to consider the camera’s power source and ensure that it’s installed in a location where it can be easily accessed for battery replacement or wiring.
Additionally, you’ll want to think about the camera’s weather resistance and durability. Arlo cameras are designed to be weather-resistant, but they’re not invincible. You’ll want to choose a location that provides some protection from the elements, such as under an eave or overhang. You should also consider the camera’s angle and positioning to ensure that it’s capturing the best possible view.
Where are the best locations to mount an Arlo camera outside?
The best locations to mount an Arlo camera outside will depend on your specific security needs and the layout of your property. Some popular locations include above doors and windows, in corners, and near gates or fences. You might also consider mounting a camera near any outdoor valuables, such as a shed or a detached garage. When choosing a location, think about the camera’s field of view and try to position it in a way that captures the most area.
It’s also a good idea to consider the camera’s height and angle. Mounting a camera high up, such as under an eave or on a second-story wall, can provide a wider field of view and make it more difficult for intruders to tamper with. You should also try to position the camera in a way that reduces glare and reflections, such as by avoiding direct sunlight or shiny surfaces.
How high should I mount my Arlo camera outside?
The ideal height for mounting an Arlo camera outside will depend on the specific location and the camera’s field of view. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to mount the camera high enough to provide a clear view of the area, but not so high that it’s difficult to access or adjust. A height of around 9-10 feet is often recommended, as this provides a good balance between visibility and accessibility.
However, the best height for your camera will depend on the specific location and the camera’s purpose. If you’re mounting a camera above a door or window, you may want to position it slightly lower to capture a clearer view of faces and other identifying features. On the other hand, if you’re mounting a camera in a corner or near a gate, you may want to position it higher to capture a wider field of view.
Can I mount my Arlo camera under an eave or overhang?
Yes, you can mount your Arlo camera under an eave or overhang. In fact, this can be a great way to provide some protection from the elements while still capturing a clear view of the area. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the camera, and take care to secure it firmly to the surface.
When mounting a camera under an eave or overhang, you’ll want to consider the camera’s angle and positioning to ensure that it’s capturing the best possible view. You may need to adjust the camera’s angle or position it slightly further out from the wall to capture the desired area. You should also take care to ensure that the camera is not obstructed by any debris or obstructions.
How do I secure my Arlo camera to the wall or surface?
To secure your Arlo camera to the wall or surface, you’ll typically use the included mounting hardware. This may include screws, anchors, or adhesive strips, depending on the type of surface and the camera’s design. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the camera, and take care to secure it firmly to the surface.
When mounting a camera to a wall or surface, you’ll want to make sure that it’s level and secure. You may want to use a level tool to ensure that the camera is properly aligned, and take care to tighten any screws or anchors firmly. You should also test the camera’s position and angle to ensure that it’s capturing the desired view.
Can I mount my Arlo camera to a fence or gate?
Yes, you can mount your Arlo camera to a fence or gate. In fact, this can be a great way to capture a clear view of the surrounding area while also deterring intruders. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the camera, and take care to secure it firmly to the surface.
When mounting a camera to a fence or gate, you’ll want to consider the camera’s angle and positioning to ensure that it’s capturing the best possible view. You may need to adjust the camera’s angle or position it slightly higher or lower to capture the desired area. You should also take care to ensure that the camera is not obstructed by any debris or obstructions.
How do I adjust the angle and position of my Arlo camera?
To adjust the angle and position of your Arlo camera, you’ll typically use the camera’s adjustable mounting hardware. This may include a ball-and-socket joint or a pivoting arm, depending on the camera’s design. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting the camera’s angle and position, and take care to secure it firmly to the surface.
When adjusting the camera’s angle and position, you’ll want to consider the camera’s field of view and try to position it in a way that captures the most area. You may want to use a smartphone app or other tool to preview the camera’s view and make adjustments as needed. You should also take care to ensure that the camera is not obstructed by any debris or obstructions.