While the summer holidays may be here and we finally have sunshine, it wasn’t that long ago that we hadn’t fully committed to putting our jumpers away for a bit. Our weather has always been changeable, but not quite as much as this – with the wettest summer on record perhaps to have the hottest days.
It takes a lot to get used to and the systems and equipment that we use need to adapt as much as we do. With our ever-changing climate where we can’t bank on when summer is coming or how much rain there will be, it’s important to understand how it may impact your security system.
Extreme heat
The sad reality is that temperature records are set to be broken year on year now, and this is bad news for the components of security equipment. High temperatures could melt components or cause accelerated wear and tear on devices.
Extreme cold
The battery life of sensors and cameras can be affected by cold to the point where extreme low temperatures can freeze stiff moving parts. Heavy snowfall not only impairs visibility but can weigh a lot, causing equipment to fall.
When temperature changes lead to freezes and thaws, cases can crack and water can seep in, turning to ice inside and then again freezing and thawing inside the unit. This whole process causes further damage.
Rain and moisture
If your system isn’t sealed properly, rain and moisture can seep in and cause it to shut down. With wetter weather and flash floods happening more regularly, it’s important to ensure your system is watertight.
Storms
Around 60 people per year are struck by lightning in the UK, which makes you wonder how likely it is that your security system will be hit. When it comes to lightning, a direct hit could completely destroy your system and lead to fires. The wind that comes with a storm can also tear cameras and mounted equipment from walls.
As with all electrical equipment, it’s advisable to unplug your system to reduce the risk of power surges. Power outages caused by severe weather can lead to a gap in protection, but these gaps are likely to be shorter if they are as a result of systems being switched off rather than damaged. If you would prefer to leave the system on, invest in surge protectors and lightning arrestors to reduce the risk of fire.
Extra steps you can take
Ensure that your cameras and sensors are placed in such a way which will provide you with the largest coverage while protecting them from adverse weather, alongside shelter points. It’s worth placing that extra investment in mounting brackets to make your equipment as stable as possible. If there are extreme weather events, make sure that you check for damage or cracks.
Would you like an assessment?
Whether you’d like a completely new security set up, an alarm service or a check up on how your system is holding up to catch any problems early, we can help. Please get in touch…
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