Good Evening Resident,

More and more people are having CCTV systems/video doorbells installed on their homes and businesses. Maintaining your CCTV cameras is essential for ensuring they continue functioning optimally and are working in the event that you ever need to access them. Here are some tips for keeping your CCTV system in good shape:

Regular Cleaning:

• Lenses: Dust, dirt, cobwebs and moisture can obstruct the camera's view. Clean the lenses gently with a microfibre cloth to avoid scratches and ensure clear footage.

• Cameras: Wipe down the camera housing regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and weather debris, especially for outdoor cameras exposed to the elements.

Check Connections:

• Inspect all cables and connections to ensure they are secure and undamaged. Loose or frayed wires can cause signal loss or poor video quality.

• For wireless cameras, ensure your Wi-Fi signal is strong and stable, as weak connections can lead to poor performance or disconnection.

Software & Firmware Updates:

• Regularly check for software and firmware updates for your CCTV system. These updates may fix bugs, improve performance or introduce new features.

• Enable auto-updates if your system supports it or set reminders to update manually.

Inspect Camera Placement:

• Over time, cameras can shift position, especially if affected by weather or physical disturbances. Regularly check the alignment and angles to ensure optimal coverage.

• Adjust camera positioning as needed to account for new obstacles or changes in the environment.

Test Regularly:

• Perform routine tests to check that all cameras are recording properly, capturing clear images and functioning at full capacity.

• Check the playback to ensure footage is accessible and clear.

Check Storage:

• Regularly check the storage capacity of your CCTV system. Make sure your hard drive or cloud storage is sufficient for the data being recorded.

• Set up a storage management system to overwrite old footage automatically or manually archive it for longer retention if necessary.

Power Supply:

• Ensure your CCTV cameras are receiving a consistent and reliable power supply. Consider using surge protectors to prevent power strikes or outages from damaging the system.

• For battery-powered cameras, regularly check battery levels and recharge or replace them as needed.

Weatherproofing (for outdoor cameras):

• For cameras exposed to the elements, ensure their casings are intact and weatherproof. Seals can degrade over time, so inspect for signs of wear and tear and replace any damaged components.

Access

• Ensure you know how to access your system. Most systems will require a password or pattern to access the footage. Ensure you know how to access your system as if you have forgotten your password, you may need an engineer to attend.

By keeping up with regular maintenance and inspections, you can extend the lifespan of your CCTV system and ensure it continues to provide reliable surveillance.

If you want any guidance on CCTV systems, you can visit the Information Commissioner's Office website here.

Kind regards,