Do You Really Need a Garage Security Camera?
Trying to decide if it’s time to invest in a garage security camera? Find out when and why one makes sense
Trying to decide if it’s time to invest in a garage security camera? Find out when and why one makes sense
Whether you actually keep your vehicle in the garage or (like one in three Americans) use it as a free-for-all maze of forgotten purchases, it is often the place where people coincidentally store high-value items.
Thus, a garage security camera is a sensible addition for anyone looking for extra peace of mind.
It never hurts to stay aware of things happening on your driveway, but adding a garage security camera can be particularly useful in these cases:
In other words, your vehicle, tools, or bikes may not be as easy to keep away from prying eyes (or they’re too tempting because of easy access).
Collectibles, expensive gear, and especially vintage or luxury vehicles may be more enticing to robbers. An indoor or outdoor garage camera can alert you ASAP.
If vehicle theft (including catalytic converter theft) is common in your area, a garage camera is your best bet for scaring off or capturing footage of thieves.
Whether you’re caring for community cats and letting them access your garage or allow your own pet to hang out, a security camera is a good way to make sure furry pals are not getting into chemicals or chewing on something they shouldn’t be.
If you ever panicked about leaving your garage open halfway to work — well, a garage camera is one way to see if you hit the clicker (just make sure to pull over first if you’re driving).
Most people install an outdoor camera or a security floodlight next to their garage, but sometimes an indoor camera can make sense for extra security.
Outdoor security cameras work best for deterring intruders and keeping an eye on your driveway. In addition to ensuring no strangers are stopping by, it’s a great way to check on package deliveries and any maintenance happening at your home.
An indoor garage camera works great if you’re trying to keep an eye on pets that have garage access or as extra security measure to catch an intruder.
The best security cameras for your garage are reliable, durable in a wide-range of temperatures, and provide excellent video quality.
Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera
The Arlo Pro 3 is a Wi-Fi camera with a rechargeable battery which provides instant alerts when motion is detected within the camera’s field of vision. Bright LED lights let you instantly see what’s going on the live feed. This camera is compatible with most smart home assistants including Amazon’s Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant.
Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera
The Arlo Wired Floodlight is ideal for garages tucked away behind the house or in an alley. With 2,000 lumens of light activated by motion (or by a custom-set schedule), you’ll be able to clearly see whether someone’s just passing through or lingering by your driveway.
You’re also able to manually adjust the floodlight in case you need a closer look or activate a siren if an intruder is detected. All Arlo cameras, including the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight and the Wired Floodlight are designed to withstand heat, cold, and rain.
If you’re installing an outdoor camera or floodlight, be sure to position it about 8-10 feet from the ground. Most people install the garage camera on the wall of the garage aimed toward the driveway. You can also install it to point at the garage door if that’s an area of concern.
Indoor garage cameras should also be installed up from the ground, aimed at an area you’d like to have monitored. Be sure the view does not become obscured by other items.
Windows often produce glare and reflections, so having a camera pointing through one can result in blurry or unclear footage.
Garages can get extremely hot in the summer and cold in winter, so you should check the ideal operating temperatures of any given camera before purchasing.
Look for cameras that allow you to set activity zones. For example, all Arlo security cameras let you draw a perimeter around the area you’d like monitored. Once set, you’ll only get notifications about events in the activity area.
