How To Clean Your Security Camera and Lens: 4 Great Tips

You’ve taken the initiative to improve your business security and surveillance by purchasing new security cameras. But like any other equipment, you need to give your cameras a little TLC every now and then. Without a clean camera and lens, you can lose valuable footage or damage the camera itself. As part of your quarterly housekeeping at your business, make sure to put camera and lens cleaning on the list. Here’s how to do it.

1. Prep the Cameras and Get Your Supplies

Before you grab the glass cleaner and soap, you need to prep the camera for cleaning. Unplug any corded cameras and remove the battery on wireless cameras if necessary. Once you have your cameras ready, grab the following items for a deep clean:

• Two microfiber towels
• Ladder (for high-to-reach cameras)
• Blower brush (which looks like a bellow for a fire with a brush attached to the end)
• Lens cleaner
• Compressed air (optional)

Once you’ve gathered these items, you can easily clean your security and camera lens.

2. Clean the Camera Housing

Before you clean the lens, you must get all the dirt and debris out of the camera housing. Cleaning the lens first means you may have to reclean it, so opt for the housing first.

To clean the camera housing, you can use either the blower brush or a can of compressed air. Both adequately remove debris and dirt within the camera without altering its angle or damaging any sensitive components.

3. Clean the Lens

The next item to clean on your security cameras is the lens. If your camera has a lens cover, remove it. If it doesn’t, you can start cleaning immediately. Use the blower brush to remove larger debris, such as cobwebs, leaves, or other organic matter.

While experts say you should use a lens cleaner, you can also use soap and water or a vinegar-water mixture in a pinch. Avoid household cleaners such as Windex or rubbing alcohol, as these leave residue on security camera lenses.

Once you’ve chosen a lens cleaner, put the solution on your microfiber towel and rub it in circular motions to remove debris or watermarks. Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness of the lens, use the second microfiber cloth to wipe the lens dry.

4. Turn the Camera On and Make Sure Everything Looks Good

After you clean both the housing and the camera, turn the camera back on and look at the footage. If your cleaning went well, you should see a crystal-clear picture, and the camera should operate smoothly. If it doesn’t, clean the lens again and take care not to make smudges on it.

For All Other Issues, Call a Pro

Surveillance and Security for businesses has been a valuable asset to businesses throughout Texas. Thankfully, cleaning your security camera lens is a relatively straightforward process. But for other problems with your system, only the advice and work of a professional will do.

Call Texas Surveillance & Security Systems in Houston if you’re struggling with proper security system installation, cloud storage, or any other associated issue. With our guidance, you can protect your employees, business, and profitability.  We look forward to serving you.