Installing a CCTV system is one of the smartest moves you can make to protect your home or business. But just like any other piece of technology, your cameras and cabling need a little attention to keep working at their best. Without proper upkeep, even the most advanced system can suffer from poor image quality, storage failures, or unexpected downtime.
Keep Your Camera Lenses Clean
Over time, dust, cobwebs, rain spots, and even bird droppings can build up on your lenses, making footage blurry or unusable. A quick clean with a soft microfibre cloth or lens-safe cleaner every couple of months can make a huge difference to image clarity.
Check Camera Positioning and Coverage
Strong winds, curious pets, or accidental knocks can move cameras slightly out of alignment. Regularly check that all cameras are still pointing in the right direction and covering the intended area. This ensures no blind spots develop over time.
Inspect Cabling and Connections
CCTV systems rely on solid cabling and data connections to work properly. Look out for:
- Loose plugs or connectors
- Wear and tear on exposed cabling
- Water damage around outdoor junctions
Test Your Recording and Storage
It’s easy to assume everything is being recorded, but storage devices can fill up or fail without you realising. Every few weeks, check your system is saving footage correctly and that you can play it back when needed. If you’re using a network video recorder (NVR), confirm your hard drives still have plenty of space and are in good health.
Keep Software and Firmware Up to Date
Most modern CCTV systems can be updated through apps or connected devices. Firmware updates often improve security, fix bugs, and add new features. Set a reminder to check for updates every couple of months.
Trim Back Trees and Obstructions
In outdoor setups, trees and bushes can grow quickly, blocking camera views or triggering false motion alerts. Keeping garden areas neat ensures your cameras always have a clear line of sight.
Review Footage Quality and Settings
Lighting conditions change with the seasons, which can affect camera performance. Take time to review your footage both during the day and at night. Adjust brightness, contrast, or infrared settings if images appear too dark or washed out.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
While there’s plenty you can do yourself, it pays to have a professional check your CCTV system once in a while. At Boiso’s, our electricians can:
- Test all cameras, cabling, and connections
- Ensure your data network is optimised for CCTV
- Replace faulty parts before they fail completely
- Provide advice on system upgrades for better performance
CCTV systems are a fantastic investment in home and business security, but like anything electrical, they need regular care. By following a simple maintenance routine and calling in the pros when needed, you’ll enjoy clear, reliable footage for years to come. If your CCTV system needs a check-up or upgrade, get in touch with the team at Boiso’s Electrical Services today.
