Smart homes everywhere have embraced the wireless cam, and for good reason. You can put these battery-powered devices anywhere with one quick DIY step, and many come with weather resistance so outdoor placement is no problem. But you pay a price for this versatility, and not just with your wallet.
Outdoor battery security cameras can last for months (depending on your settings) without needing a recharge, but eventually you will need to give them some attention. That's annoying if the camera is posted above a garage or patio and requires a ladder to reach, or if it's an off-site cam you weren't planning on visiting.
Now these wireless cameras have a fix for long-term battery management – small but powerful solar panels. You can find these solar mounts and add-ons from nearly every security brand, ready to keep batteries topped off and make your maintenance easy. Let's explore how that works.
Find enough sunlight for your solar panel and you won't have to worry about batteries on your wireless camera.
Does a solar panel mean I never have to charge the cam battery?
It's not guaranteed, but the results can be excellent. In our tests, we found placing a solar panel in a sunny backyard was enough to keep a battery topped off entirely, at least in the pleasant summer months. With the right angle and weather, you may not have to worry about charging or replacing batteries for a very long time, possibly years. Of course, results will vary depending on your location and positioning.
Does the solar panel need to be on a roof? Where should I install it?
You can mount it wherever you can screw it in to get lots of sunlight. That can include rooftops, walls, eaves, trees, fences and more. Generally, you'll want to keep it away from shade, leaves and obstructions like nearby houses or hills.
For an even better guide on how to mount a solar panel and the best way to angle, you can use an online tool based on your location or even purchase a little gizmo to get the angle right.
Do I have to mount a camera solar panel separately from the camera?
In most cases, yes. This is an advantage because a single panel can support multiple security camera types from the brand, and you may be able to keep it if you want to upgrade your camera model.
In other cases, solar panels are built into cameras, such with this Eufy model. Blink, on the other hand, has a mount-and-solar combination add-on for some of its cams. These options make installation a lot easier, but find proper sun exposure is trickier.
Tapo's solar panel sits outside facing the sun.
Can these solar panels work in all kinds of weather?
Yes. These solar panels come with great weather resistance and you shouldn't have any problems with rain, snow, hail and wind storms. Tornadoes may be a problem. And yes, modern solar panels are efficient enough to make a difference even during cloudy weather, so don't let your climate get in the way of extra battery power.
Do the solar panels require any maintenance?
A good wipe down now and then will keep them operating efficiently, especially after a dusty summer season or rainy winter.
Can you adjust solar panels when they're installed?
Most versions have options to adjust the tilt for maximum sun exposure. They can usually be rotated too.
Can the solar panel power anything else besides the cam?
Not really. These small solar panels are focused entirely on camera batteries and aren't really large enough to power much else.
How much does one of these solar panels typically cost?
They're usually $30 to $50 separately but often come bundled with security cams.
Arlo also offers a solar panel for its latest cameras.
The best solar panels for security cameras by brand
With the major points addressed, let's look at the solar panel offerings from some of the most popular security brands on the market. Fortunately, almost everyone has one. Here's a quick list of our favorites so you can check if any are compatible with your cams:
- EufyCam Solar Panel ($40)
- TP-Link Tapo A200 Solar Panel ($40)
- Ring Small Solar Panel ($40)
- Arlo Pro Solar Panel Charger 2-pack ($35)
- Reolink Argus Solar Panel ($30)
- Lorex Solar Panel ($60)
- Vosker V150 Built-in LTE Solar Cam ($200)
Last but not least, now's the perfect time to review the best places to install a security camera and the spots you should never put a cam.Â