Why You Shouldn't Mount Most Floodlight Cameras Upside Down

Floodlight cameras, such as those from Ring, Blink, and Wyze, are popular choices for enhancing home security. While their wall-mounted design is user-friendly, it's crucial to install them correctly to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here’s what you need to know.

Correct Mounting Matters

Most floodlight cameras are engineered to be mounted on walls. They have weep holes at the bottom—small openings that allow water to drain and prevent moisture buildup. Proper drainage is essential for protecting the internal components from water damage.

Risks of Incorrect Installation

Installing your floodlight camera upside down on a soffit can lead to serious problems:

1. Water Accumulation: Without proper drainage, water can collect inside the camera housing, causing short circuits and malfunctions.

2. May Void Warranty: Most manufacturers specify wall mounting in their installation guidelines. If your camera is damaged due to incorrect installation, this may void the warranty, leaving you responsible for repairs or replacements.

3. Reduced Performance: Floodlight cameras are optimized for a specific orientation. Installing them upside down makes it difficult to obtain maximum coverage. This affects their motion detection and video quality, compromising your security coverage.

Best Practices for Installation

To ensure your floodlight camera functions effectively and remains in good condition, follow these guidelines:

1. Choose the Right Location: Select a place that offers a clear view of the area you want to monitor, away from direct rainfall if possible. Most floodlights are installed along the corners of the house where downspouts often get in the way. Fortunately, we have a solution to that.

2. Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always refer to the installation manual provided by the manufacturer. Adhering to their recommendations is key to maintaining warranty coverage. Our camera mounts don't replace the mounting hardware provided by the manufacturer.

3. Keep it Vertical: Angled or Sloped soffits can be tricky. We make custom soffit wedges to fit.

4. Check for Weep Holes: Before finalizing the installation, ensure that the weep holes are unobstructed and positioned correctly for optimal drainage.

5. Regular Maintenance: Periodically inspect your camera for debris buildup around the weep holes and clean as needed to maintain proper function.

Conclusion