Houston hurricane season will come with lots of rain, gusts of wind, and potential loss of electricity. Security cameras designed for regular weather conditions may not withstand the effects of hurricanes if they are not correctly prepared for them. Just taking a few measures makes sure that your security system is up and running during storms. This article explains how to prepare both indoor and outdoor security cameras for the Houston hurricane season. The information will be helpful for people living in Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Pearland, Cypress, Pasadena, and Spring.

The Importance of Storm Preparedness

Rain and winds put pressure on all outdoor mounts, cables, and seals. If water gets into the connection points, then the camera will not record or be powered. Debris from the storm could knock the cameras off-center. Any power outage will mean that the system cannot record unless there is a backup power source. Remote access comes in handy during and even after the storm as one could need to check for any unusual activities such as damage and floods without having to go outdoors.

Check Weatherproofing and Camera Mounts

It is important to inspect every outdoor camera before the start of the season. Check for any cracks, loose camera mount, and gaps in the camera’s housing. The humidity in Houston and earlier storms may cause the sealing to wear out over time. All cameras that feel loose or show any sign of exposure to water need to be resealed or remounted. Proper installation should come with the correct weatherproofing gaskets, weather-resistant cables, and sealed connections. If you have cameras installed a few years back or by someone else, then it only takes a brief inspection to spot any weakness.Bricks and siding camera mounts should use the right anchors to prevent the strong wind from loosening them.

Backup Power and Camera Recording Options

Blackouts occur frequently when weather gets harsh. Wireless cameras that operate on battery power can record for a period of time if the battery remains functional. Other options such as wired and PoE require a different solution.A UPS to the NVR or PoE switch will enable local recording even when there is a blackout. Some people use a generator or whole home backup to power the entire system including the camera system. Even with the cloud connected cameras, internet is required; therefore, if the modem and router work without power outage, you can still see the images via the internet.Test the backup power before the storm season begins. Make sure that the cameras begin recording when the power resumes.

Networking and Remote Access Preparedness

A good and strong wireless network is key in ensuring that the cameras remain connected. Mesh network technology or properly situated access points work in ensuring that there is improved connectivity in large homes. Prior to the storm season, ensure that the camera continues to show good connectivity in the application. Update the firmware of the cameras and app whenever there are updates available. Updates usually contain stability fixes. Ensure that you know how to remotely login into the application and have alerts configured for the zones that you want, such as porch, driveway, and flood prone areas. In case of prolonged internet or electricity outages, plan on how you will access your footage when the connectivity resumes.

Camera Placement for Storms

Cameras observing the porch, driveway, and any areas that are prone to flooding in the garden will still prove useful even after the storm hits. It is wise not to place the cameras where they will come under attack from falling tree branches or floodwater. After the storm, verify whether the cameras have shifted. Any slight shift will cause blind spots that might not have been there before. Camera installers can come back to set things right again.Protection against power surges for indoor cameras will be beneficial even when networked with other devices.

Professional Service Before and After Storms

Having an installer conduct an inspection before the start of the season may help identify any issues like loose mounts, worn out seals and faulty connections within the network. Post storm inspection will enable one to identify the extent of water damage, realign the cameras and restore them to full functionality. When choosing a new system, make sure to inquire about its performance in bad weather and power outages.

Why CamRelo for Storm-Resistant Cameras 

CamRelo has been providing camera installation and repair services in Houston and the surrounding areas taking into account the local weather conditions. Proper mounting, sealing, and system installation in order to ensure that the cameras will operate efficiently under hot, humid, and rainy conditions are the key elements of their services. They include both camera installation and maintenance visits, as well as camera relocation after the storms.

Conclusion

Hurricane season in Houston is a true test for any outdoor security camera. Proper weather sealing, durable mounting, backup power sources, and good remote access capabilities allow the system to keep working despite tough conditions. Proper preparation ahead of time – checking seals, ensuring that backups work, and confirming that the network is stable – decreases the chances of failure during a storm.