How to Choose the Best Solar Panel for Security Cameras
Solar powered security cameras are great for off-grid properties as they don’t rely on grid energy. They have all the features of regular security cameras such as motion sensors, WiFi connectivity and the ability to stream in real-time from your phone.
The best solar-powered security camera is one that has a high resolution so individuals can be identified easily. It should also be able to operate in weather conditions, like rain or snow.
1. Solar Panel Efficiency
The solar panel on your security camera converts sunlight into energy that powers an in-built battery to keep the cameras running all day and night. The best panels offer a large surface area and high conversion rates to ensure maximum energy production.
For this reason, many solar-powered security cameras require a south facing location to obtain maximum sunlight exposure year-round. They should also be placed in a spot that gets sunlight during peak hours, which can vary by season.
It’s also important to consider how much storage your security camera can handle. Most solar-powered security cameras offer advanced memory systems that can be accessed via USB or micro SD slots, and the brand’s cloud storage reachable from an account or app. This feature makes them a convenient alternative to conventional security cameras that need constant mains power.
2. Solar Panel Wattage
Solar-powered security cameras are a great option for green-minded homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills. However, they may not be ideal for everyone. If you want to power multiple devices at once, or are planning on traveling often, a solar generator is likely a better fit for you.
A solar-powered camera can help protect your home from vandals, porch pirates best solar panel for security camera and wandering animals. It is also a great option for vacation homes or Airbnb rentals that will be unoccupied for extended periods of time.
While traditional cameras rely on grid power, solar-powered models generate electricity through the sun’s rays and store it in the included battery for use when necessary. Many solar-powered cameras include features like motion detection, smartphone alerts and remote monitoring. Look for a model with a high-definition camera, wide field of view and night vision to ensure your property is always protected.
3. Battery Capacity
Ideally, solar security cameras should be placed in a location where sunlight can reach the camera and solar panel. This means a south facing wall or atop somewhere high with an unhindered view. However, if this is not possible due to your home’s design or other factors, many solar cameras offer some leeway by allowing you to cable the devices together.
Some solar security cameras even come with a built-in battery for backup power in case of best solar panel for security camera a blackout. The battery can provide enough energy to operate the camera and also charge its onboard solar cell, keeping it powered even when the sun isn’t out.
Solar-powered security cameras are great for remote properties, vacation homes, or Airbnb rentals that may be left unattended for extended periods. They provide continuous surveillance that deters intruders and can record valuable evidence should a break-in occur. Some also allow you to check in and see live footage from anywhere.
4. Battery Life
Most solar security cameras run on rechargeable batteries and have an onboard backup battery for cloudy days. Some also have two-way talk and speakers for communication with intruders or visitors. Others include night vision and PIR motion-detection sensors that scan for intruders in the dark.
The best solar panel for security camera will provide a long charge to the in-built battery, but that depends on the amount of sunlight it gets daily during peak hours. To get the most out of your solar power kit for security camera, make sure you place it in a sunny spot facing south.
Some popular solar security cameras also come with cloud storage and/or roaming (3g, 4g, or 5g) to send prompt alerts to your smartphone in real-time. Other features of these cameras include night vision, infrared LED lighting, a wide field of view and PIR motion detection.
5. Battery Efficiency
When it comes to powering security cameras, solar energy is a smart and cost-effective choice. Many of the leading manufacturers offer solar panels that work with their entire product line, including some of our picks for the best security cameras.
Solar panels are able to convert direct sunlight into DC (Direct Current) electricity, which is then stored in the camera’s battery. This allows your security camera to operate continuously throughout the day and night.
In order to maximize the efficiency of your camera, make sure it is placed in a sunny location with no shade or snow. It also helps to invest in a high-resolution camera that offers a wide field of view. This will allow you to easily identify individuals, objects, and activities in recorded footage. Additionally, you should consider purchasing a secure storage solution that includes USB or Micro SD slots and cloud-based access through the brand’s app.
6. Battery Type
In addition to the solar panel, the internal battery of a security camera is another vital component. Its size determines how long the camera can run, depending on the model and features like two-way audio and Wi-Fi connectivity. Some models also feature a microSD port with a maximum capacity of three terabytes for local storage.
The amount of motion detection and alerts the camera triggers daily can also affect its battery life. You can adjust its sensitivity settings to strike a balance between security and battery conservation.
If you are planning to use the camera for outdoor surveillance and have access to a power source, opting for a solar generator like the Anker Solar Generator 767 is an option worth considering. It’s versatile enough to power other devices besides your security camera and allows for a continuous power supply even on cloudy days. However, these devices tend to be more expensive than solar panels.