Setting up a reliable security system is essential for protecting your home or business. However, one common problem that many people face is dealing with bugs around their security cameras, especially when mounted outdoors. These critters can be more than just a nuisance; they can cause false motion triggers, obstruct the camera’s view, and in worst cases even damage the equipment (I have personally seen cockroaches build nests inside security equipment). In this article, we will explore why bugs are attracted to security cameras and provide you with practical tips on how to keep bugs away from security cameras.
Why are bugs attracted to security cameras?
There are several reasons why bugs are attracted to security cameras and become a nuisance.
Camera lights
The camera’s lights, whether spotlights or including IT lights can attract insects. You’ll know that a lamp outside in the dark will draw in moths and other flying insects. Same thing with security cameras that emit lights.
Camera lens reflections attract bugs
Camera lens reflections can attract bugs. The minor reflections of light can be attractive to insects. Plus, they can also mistake the reflections for potential mates or sources of food, leading them to gather around the camera.
Spider webs near the camera can attract bugs
Spider webs near the camera can act as a magnet for bugs. Spiders often build their webs near light sources and other areas where bugs are likely to congregate. If there are spider webs around your camera, it’s important to address this issue as it can attract additional insects.
Warm, dry and secluded
An outdoor camera is often placed in a secure location. That usually means away from direct exposure to the elements, like under a soffit for example. These spots, as you will have noticed, are also a suitably dry and secluded spot for insects. Wasp nests are just one example. The cameras themselves also emit a slight heat as well as electromagnetic field. These may also be attractive to certain insects. The fact that these locations are also more out of the way means they are not easily disturbed, another reason for a bug to make it home.
What are the risks of bugs around security cameras?
Bugs can cause false motion triggers
One of the main risks of having bugs around your security cameras is the potential for false motion triggers. When bugs fly in front of the camera lens or crawl on its surface, it can trigger false alarms, leading to unnecessary notifications or unnecessary recordings.
Bugs and spider webs can obstruct the camera’s view
Bugs and spider webs can obstruct the camera’s view, reducing its effectiveness. Whether it’s a swarm of insects or a spider web covering the lens, these obstructions can limit the camera’s ability to capture clear and useful footage.
Insects can damage the camera or its components
Insects can also cause physical damage to the camera or its components. Some bugs may chew on the camera wires, causing electrical issues or even rendering the camera inoperable. It’s crucial to take proactive measures to keep insects away from your security system to avoid potential damage.
How can I keep spiders away from my security camera?
Spiders present an extra challenge. Not only can the spider themselves obstruct the field of view, but their webs extend across a lens even when the spider isn’t directly in view. Webs can inhibit the focus of the camera and obstruct other features in the frame. Here’s some ways to keep spiders away from security cameras.
Use spider repellent sprays near the camera
If you are specifically dealing with spiders around your security camera, using spider repellent sprays can be effective. These sprays are designed to repel spiders and discourage them from building webs near the camera.
Trim vegetation around the camera to eliminate spider hiding spots
Spiders often build their webs in areas with ample vegetation. By trimming the vegetation around your camera, you can reduce potential hiding spots and discourage spiders from setting up their webs.
Use natural spider deterrents, such as peppermint oil
Spiders are repelled by certain scents, such as peppermint oil. By applying peppermint oil around your camera or using peppermint-infused sprays, you can create an environment that spiders find unpleasant and avoid.
How can I prevent bugs from coming near my security camera?
Similar to spiders, bugs can be a real nuisance when it comes to security cameras, especially at night. Flying bugs in particular can be a menace, causing false alarms and reducing the function of the camera.
Install a bug zapper near the camera
If your security camera is located in an area with a high concentration of bugs, consider installing a bug zapper nearby. These devices emit ultraviolet light, which attracts bugs and zaps them, keeping the area around your camera clear. Just make sure the zapper doesn’t impinge on your camera’s function. Also, if you use audio triggered events, know that the bug zapper will emit a zapping sound that may interfere with those triggers.
Use a dryer sheet
One method people have found useful to deter insects around security cameras is to use a dryer sheet. Wrap the dryer sheet around the camera body and use rubber bands to secure it. The scent of the dryer sheet repels the insects
Place a flea collar around your camera
A flea collar, like one used for a dog or cat, can be tied around the camera. It will have the same effect as when used on your pet. Other bugs apart from fleas also dislike the scent of the flea collar.
Neem oil is another natural pest deterrent
Neem oil is well known for it’s effectiveness against critters in the agricultural and horticultural industries. Well, what works for protecting your veggies can also work for protecting your security cameras! Just make sure the neem oil is not on your camera lens or applied to sensitive spots of the camera.
Spray the camera body with silicone or wax
Using a light lubricant spray on the body of the camera can also prevent insects. The slippery surface makes it difficult for bugs to get a foothold. Make sure you don’t spray directly onto the lens or any sensitive area of the camera.
Use insect repellent sprays or traps
Insect repellent sprays or traps can be an effective way to keep bugs away from your security cameras. These products contain chemicals that repel insects, making them less likely to approach the camera. Be sure to choose a repellent that is safe for outdoor use and does not damage the camera or its components. Spraying around, but not directly on, the camera, can deter insects. There are more natural-based products too.
Keep outdoor lights away from the camera
Outdoor lights can attract bugs, which in turn, may be attracted to your security camera. So, to minimize this, keep outdoor lights away from the camera’s immediate vicinity.
Use motion-activated lights
If possible, install lights in a different location or consider using motion-activated lights that only turn on when triggered. In fact, a secondary light source can be a good thing. If it is able to illuminate the scene for the camera, but doesn’t distort the image, and is far enough away, it will draw the insects to it and away from the lesser light of of the security camera.
Regularly inspect and clean the camera’s surrounding area
Regularly inspecting and cleaning the camera’s surrounding area is important to prevent bugs from making it their home. Remove any debris, cobwebs, or potential insect nests in the vicinity of the camera.
The Final Score
Outdoor cameras are not a one and done solution. They do require some maintenance. They can provide attractive habitats for bugs and spiders. And that can lead to your security camera system underperforming. Insects can obstruct the view of the camera. Plus, they can cause false alarms by trigger motion-based events, especially flying insects. By implementing the tips above and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the presence of bugs around your security cameras. Keeping your cameras bug-free will ensure they function optimally and provide you with greater peace of mind.