Cold weather can have negative effects on your video surveillance system. Most of the time, cameras efficiently working during winter becomes an afterthought, which usually occurs once the camera’s performance has already been hindered. Have a look at a useful checklist to help you maintain an efficient video surveillance system this winter.
Selecting A High IP Rating
A weather-rated enclosure of at least IP66 is necessary when installing cameras in areas that endure cold climates such as hail and snow. These enclosures require regular checks to ensure that the seals are tight. Humidity also causes condensation which accumulates inside the camera and can lead to turning into frost. Based on that possibility, it is important to take caution in the event of moving a camera from extremely cold conditions to a warm environment. Excessive condensation could also result in internal components of the device experiencing a short circuit.
Temperature-Tolerant Cameras
It is advised to always double-check a camera’s temperature rating when sourcing a camera. It is an important factor in maintaining efficient operation in cold environments. There are two specifications to consider and understand: operating temperature and storage temperature.
Operating temperature refers to the temperature of the air within the environment that it is installed and utilized in. Storage temperature refers to the temperature of the environment at which the equipment is safely stored. In the event of a camera being stored in an environment with temperatures below the suggested operating temperature. It is advisable to allow the camera to warm up without being in operation until it reaches the recommended operating temperature.
When sourcing temperature-rated cameras, it is advisable to review the device’s datasheets to identify the minimum and maximum operating and storage temperatures. Extensive tests are conducted to ensure those devices are capable of meeting climate conditions.
Consider Other Components
Cameras should not be the only factor to consider in such environments. Low temperatures can also affect other components that accompany the installation of a video surveillance system. Heavy winds and rain can significantly result in degrading incorrectly specified cables and unprotected connectors installed outdoors.
Video surveillance components such as NVRs comprising of hard drives and LCD monitors are usually placed in temperature-controlled environments. Which will eliminate running such risks. If devices are stored in a vehicle parked outdoors, accompanied by extremely cold weather, and then installed. The risks of damages are high. Hard drives can sustain damage or potentially fail due to their lubricants thickening. LCD screens also contain liquid which can freeze, resulting in damaging pixels.
Weatherproof Cameras
Weatherproof cameras are required to undergo rigorous testing to ensure that they meet extreme standards. Which will validate all information provided on datasheet specifications. The idea behind that is to provide reasonable margins, ensuring those cameras provide are of the utmost reliability when performing in any environment as recommended on the datasheet.
Temperature resistance is deemed an important aspect of any security solution and should be considered a priority when selecting a camera. An outdoor surveillance camera is subject to being exposed to a variety of weather conditions which could potentially result in components freezing or failing. Hence, carefully choosing the ideal camera for your surveillance monitoring based on the nature of the application and environment is a high priority.
Compass Visual Security offers a variety of surveillance cameras which are ideal for just about any application and environment. We offer various brands to choose from. Have a look at our product offering and get in touch with our sales team to further assist you.