How to Choose the Best Solar Panel for Security Cameras
Solar-powered security cameras provide a wealth of benefits, including being completely off the grid and self-renewing. They can also be easily installed in a DIY fashion and rival regular cameras for video performance.
But before you pick one out, it’s important to consider four key factors that will affect your decision. These include: camera resolution, field of view, solar panel wattage, and features like smartphone alerts and remote monitoring.
1. Size
Solar security cameras have photovoltaic panels that use sunlight to convert energy and power an in-built battery. They come with all the features of conventional cameras like remote monitoring, smartphone alerts, and motion activation. They’re a great option for people who live off the grid or have properties that are unoccupied for extended periods of time.
While some cameras only offer basic video recording, others have more advanced functionality such as DVR/NVR options with up to three terabytes of storage and a wired connection to the Internet for cloud-based video surveillance. Some also have local storage with built-in microSD card ports that let you record, store and review footage on the camera itself.
Choosing the best solar panel for security camera depends on the size of your property and how often you want to monitor it. The camera’s resolution, field of view, solar panel wattage, night vision, and motion activation are other factors to consider.
If you’re considering a solar-powered security camera, it’s important to install the panel and camera in an area that receives ample sunlight. If possible, place the solar panel on a south-facing wall and mount the camera so it has an unhindered view of the area you want to watch. If this isn’t possible, many solar security cameras give you some leeway with a lengthy cable that lets you position the camera and panel in a sunnier location. For example, the budget-friendly eufyCam solar panel has a 13-foot cable that works with all of its cameras.
2. Efficiency
Depending on the brand you choose, solar-powered security cameras convert sunlight into energy that powers an inbuilt rechargeable battery. This battery stores enough energy to keep the camera running all day, even during cloudy and sunless days. Some solar-powered security cameras also feature two-way talk and speakers that let you communicate with anyone outside your home, allowing you to deter burglars.
Many of the solar security cameras available on the market are smart devices that work with a number of popular smart home platforms like Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. They allow you to view your footage and control solar bullet camera the camera settings remotely through your mobile device. If you want to ensure that your footage stays safe from tampering, choose a model with reliable motion detection and night-vision features.
If you’re looking for a solar power kit that can power more than just your security camera, consider choosing one with a generator like the Anker Solar Generator 767. These powerful units can power multiple appliances at once, making them a convenient choice for camping trips or off-grid living. They’re also an ideal option for vacation homes, Airbnb rentals, and other locations that may be unattended for extended periods of time. When choosing a solar-powered security camera, make sure to pay attention to its battery capacity and whether it has local or cloud storage capabilities.
3. Convenience
Unlike non-solar security cameras that need to be plugged in or run on batteries, solar powered cameras utilize photovoltaic best solar panel for security camera solar panels that convert sun energy into power for the in-built battery within the camera. This is a convenient feature especially when the camera is located outside and you don’t want to keep changing out batteries.
Solar-powered security cameras have all the same features as traditional cameras like motion sensors, WiFi connection and real-time surveillance from your phone. Depending on the model you choose, they can monitor your home from multiple angles and even offer infrared night vision. Some of the best solar-powered security cameras come from the leading brands in the industry such as Ring and Lorex, with options that include a two-year warranty and full-service monitoring for a monthly fee.
To make the most of your solar security camera, it’s important to place the panel and camera in a location that receives direct sunlight daily. Ideally, the solar panel should be placed in a south-facing location and the camera should be positioned so that it can capture an unobstructed view. Since weather conditions can change, some cameras may require a larger solar panel to provide sufficient power and others might need a longer cord between the camera and panel. Moreover, it’s important to note that while most solar-powered security cameras can operate in extreme weather conditions, they might not recharge as quickly if the sun isn’t at its peak.
4. Cost
The solar panel in a security camera has photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity to charge the in-built battery. The energy it generates depends on the performance of the panel, which includes its power conversion efficiency and output. A high-efficiency solar panel will provide more power and charge the battery faster. The battery in a security camera can be used to store recorded footage during the night, and some models also offer two-way audio that allows users to speak to people who are near the camera, which is especially useful when it comes to deterring intruders or talking to delivery personnel.
A good solar panel for a security camera will be durable and resistant to weather elements, such as wind, rain, sleet and snow. It should also be easy to mount and use.
It is recommended to look for a camera that has reliable motion detection and offers smartphone alerts to ensure it can capture activity even when you’re not home. Choose a camera that has cloud storage options for recording video footage in case of loss or theft, and if possible, opt for a solar-powered model with low power consumption to keep your budget under control.
If you’re planning to use a third-party solar charging panel with a security camera, you should know that most cameras aren’t designed to be opened up for the replacement of their native batteries, and doing so could void the warranty. However, some leading security camera brands like Eufy have all-in-one devices that include a solar charger and a longlasting internal battery.