CCTV Cameras
Nowadays, installing a CCTV camera is not merely an accessory or an added feature of a house. It is not becoming a must, given the many crimes that happen every day. The CCTVs provide you with the peace of mind needed for you to sleep soundly at night. However, installing CCTV is not a cheap investment. If you want to know how much does it cost to install CCTV cameras, then this article might be of help.
Cost to Install Security Cameras
An average CCTV system installation will cost roughly $1,500. The price for professional installation can vary significantly depending on the system type and the number of cameras you prefer. Each camera will range between $100 to $200, including professional installation. However, a system designed for DIY installation will help you save more money, given you have enough time and the right tools to do so. The first thing you need to do is to schedule an initial consultation to help you understand your exact needs based on the requirements of your residence.
The type of CCTV for your home depends on the following factors:
- The Size of Your Home
The wider your residential area, the more cameras you need. You’ll also require higher quality with better resolution cameras and field of vision for larger areas. - Security Needs
Your security demands will greatly impact the kind of CCTV you will need. Do you need the cameras to monitor your child? Your caregiver? Or to protect your home from criminal activities? The latter might require a high-performing CCTV system. - External or Internal
External cameras need weatherproof features; thus, they are often more expensive than internal ones. - Wired or Wireless
Wired CCTVs need professional help to install. Most DIY security systems are wireless. - Monitored or Unmonitored
Especially for businesses, adding a security service for live 24-hour monitoring might require you to upgrade, causing a higher expense with a monthly fee.
Other Factors that Affect Cost
Upgrades are often required to meet the security requirements of a specific household. These will significantly increase how much does it cost to install CCTV cameras but assures you of a system that works. Unique angles, coverage areas, and lighting create a need for specific cameras, increased resolution, motion detection, night vision, and other upgrades.
Placement of your camera also determines equipment upgrades like weatherproofing, wide-angle lenses, night vision, and concealment features. More cameras with higher resolution require larger DVRs and NVRs. Here are other factors that can affect cost:
- Indoor vs. Outdoor
Outdoor security cameras can see farther and have higher resolution costing an average of $100 each vs. their indoor counterparts starting at only $60. However, both cameras need an additional of $100 to install. Indoor cameras don’t need weatherproofing and often have a limited range and resolution. They are also of a smaller variety, usually using bullet, hidden, or dome styles. On the other hand, external types often need better visibility and durability – both to deter possible criminal movement. - Resolution
Camera resolution is measured in television lines, though they are often advertised more commonly as 480p, 720p, and 1080p resolution terms. The higher the resolution, the more costly. However, it comes with clearer images. The resolution you need depends on what the CCTVs will be installed for. - Low Resolution: $100
Anything below 1080p resolution usually costs at around $100 each. These types are helpful for areas where keen details, like faces and writing, aren’t essential. The low definition is the choice for systems set up to monitor what kids or housekeepers are doing. - High Resolution: $100-$300
If you prefer a resolution above 1080p, then you might need to add $100 to $300. When you need an accurate picture of a person, license plates, or identifying marks, go with a higher definition (HD). These are ideal for any entry points to your home. Higher resolution also requires more investments in video storage, which can be another added cost. - Field of View
Depending on the design of your home, you may need wide-angle cameras in some rooms and narrow in others. There is no significant difference in how much does it cost to install CCTV cameras with wide-angle vs. a narrow-angle one. Since wide viewing angles are usually placed in large areas, like an open yard or parking lot, thus, you’ll need fewer cameras. A smaller field of view is better for particular targets, like gates, doors, and windows. - Motion Detection
Motion detectors are usually a part of a comprehensive security system. A standard motion detector camera will cost about $15 to $150 without installation costs. On the other hand, a standalone motion detector costs between $20 and $50. These CCTVs reduce power consumption and can be used to monitor the service of a potential problem. When installed, they allow recording only when motion is detected, decreasing power usage and data storage requirements. - Night Vision and Infrared Illuminator
An added IR illuminator runs between $15 to $90. IR cameras give a higher quality picture compared to standard night vision. On the other hand, standard night vision amplifies available light, like moonlight and streetlights. Infrared (IR) imaging uses the infrared light produced by heated sources. This light isn’t noticeable to the human eye, but an IR camera sees it and transforms it into the visible light spectrum. - Monitored Security Services
Monitored services range from $30 to $65 monthly with initial service fees ranging from $0 to $200. These services add a layer of protection to your home security system. Most advanced monitoring systems are wireless and provide smart home features, like heating, remote lighting, and even door lock controls. For an additional monthly charge, your home will be monitored 24 hours a day, alerting you and the police if any disturbance occurs. - Audio Surveillance
Cameras with audio surveillance are only a few dollars more than those without this feature. Adding them after initial system installation is easy and inexpensive. So, how much does it cost to install CCTV cameras with audio surveillance? The answer is around $10 to $30 each. A few states have two-party approval laws for recording conversations. Check first with your local and state laws before installing any audio equipment.
Conclusion
CCTV cameras help in ensuring that your home and family are safe at all times. They deter potential break-ins and are also helpful in solving criminal activities. Although the total cost might be too overwhelming, installation is still recommended considering your peace of mind. To know how much does it cost to install CCTV cameras can help you prepare for this huge investment. After all, what matters the most is your home security and the safety of your loved ones. Know more about CCTV Cameras.