Our homes are our oasis where we rest and are kept safe daily. The houses we live in may be our sanctuary after a long day of work, but sometimes it’s a prime target of criminals. Keeping our homes, garages, apartments, short-term rentals, and sheds protected is easier when we install home security devices.
If you’re in the process of converting your traditional home into a smart home, there are plenty of smart devices available to you.
When you wish to increase your home’s security, consider obtaining a smart video doorbell. Once this doorbell has been installed, you’ll be able to see a video whenever someone rings your doorbell and speaks with visitors before giving them access to your home.
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Why Do You Need a Smart Video Doorbell at Home?
Installing a smart video doorbell at home is a must in many households in the US. In a report, Americans spend over $20 billion annually on security devices and home security systems to protect themselves and their property.
Property crimes are prevalent across many states in the US. Home invasions, burglary, breaking and entering, or break-ins, are the names commonly associated with property crimes in the country. Most of the time, they carry hefty price tags of stolen possessions or damaged properties, but they also jeopardize our safety and security in our own homes.
There are many reasons why it’s crucial to establish a form of smart home security system and smart home devices in your home. For starters, a smart video doorbell can act as a security camera capable of capturing video (and audio) of anyone who gets close to your door.
When someone approaches, the doorbell will detect the motion and send an alert to your smart hub app via a basic Wi-Fi connection. Some of these devices include a landline or cellular backup in case Wi-Fi is down.
The majority of burglaries and thefts occur between 10 AM and 3 PM, which is when many people are away at work or school. With a smart video doorbell installed, you’ll receive an alert if someone attempts to break in even when you’re not home.
These devices are also convenient because they let you know when you should open the door. With this device, you can easily see who’s outside, whether they are guests or just door-to-door salespersons.
It’s possible to prevent the theft of your packages as well. With video doorbells, you’ll receive an alert once a package is delivered. If someone attempts to take your package, the doorbell has a speaker that you can use to warn the thief away. Doorbell cameras offer ample safety and convenience.
Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4
Aqara’s Smart Video Doorbell G4 can send you updates via the Aqara app to let you know immediately if you should open the door. You can also pair smart video doorbells with smart locks.
The Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 has AI-enabled features that have on-device facial recognition that can be used for automation. Familiar people (housemates) can be easily recognized and won’t raise security issues. You can even customize the “Welcome Home” scene for each family member.
It’s also compatible with multiple smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, and Matter (which will be implemented later). This battery-powered video doorbell has dual powering options: you can use a 6-battery pack for 4 months or you can wire it to an AC/DC adapter and use the batteries as a backup in case of a power outage.
This smart video doorbell can capture high-quality images with a 1080p sensor and infrared vision at a 162° angle. It can store your data of up to 512 GB for 24/7 recording which is housed in the Chime Repeater so that cannot be accessed or tampered with from the outside. Plus, it also can change your voice to different options for additional privacy of your identity.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Install Your Smart Video Doorbell
Depending on your current setup, you can let the handyman install your smart video doorbell. But you can also do a DIY installation! Here’s a step-by-step guide to properly install your smart video doorbell. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to properly install your preferred smart video doorbell.
Pre-installation Preparation
Before you begin the installation process, make sure your video doorbell app or smart home app is downloaded. This app will allow you to connect any smart device you install while also giving you full control over the doorbell’s settings. Make sure you create an account as well. For Aqara smart home products, you may download the Aqara Home app for better control of your Aqara devices.
Tools and Materials Required
Every smart video doorbell has its own set of instructions, which means that the tools you need to install the device depend on the exact brand and model you buy.
In most cases, you’ll need some screws, a charging cable, and a screwdriver. If the doorbell needs to be installed into stucco or brick, a drill is necessary. You can remove your current doorbell with a flathead screwdriver or box cutter.
Safety Precautions
Even though the smart video doorbell process is relatively simple, you’ll still be handling electricity, which is why there are some safety precautions you should adhere to.
First, go to your breaker box to shut off the power that leads to your doorbell. This box can typically be found in a basement, garage, or side room. Keep in mind that most smart video doorbells use batteries, which means that hard wiring may be optional.
Check for the Ideal Location
When mounting to concrete or brick, use a carbide drill bit. The smart video doorbell you buy should come with concrete anchors. If you’re drilling into concrete, consider using a hammer drill for the best results. The ideal location for a video doorbell is in the area where your existing doorbell is located.
Power Source Options
Most doorbell models are powered by rechargeable batteries, which means that you should charge the batteries before installing the device. A micro-USB cable is often used to charge a battery. Keep in mind that the doorbell must be removed whenever it needs recharging.
If you select the Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4, you have two power sources at your disposal, which include a six-battery pack that lasts for up to four months and a wired connection to an AC/DC adapter.
Mounting Your Smart Video Doorbell
Most video doorbells come with mounting brackets that are easy to attach to your home’s exterior. If the bracket is being attached to wood, you can use screws. Otherwise, drill bits and anchors might be required. Once you’ve mounted the bracket, attach the doorbell. There should also be some security screws for you to place at the lowermost portion of the doorbell.
How To Connect Your Smart Video Doorbell to Smart Hubs
The process of connecting your smart video doorbell to your smart hub depends on which smart hub you have. The four primary smart hubs you can connect your doorbell to include Aqara Hub, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa.
In most cases, all that’s required is for you to open the smart hub app and navigate to the “Devices” area. From here, click “Add Device” or a similar button. You’ll then have the opportunity to choose the type and brand of smart video doorbell that you’ve just installed.
Do You Need To Hire Professionals to Install Your Smart Video Doorbell?
You can safely install your smart video doorbell without hiring an electrician or a contractor. However, some electrical work is required during the installation process, which means that there is a risk to consider if you’re planning to have a wired connection as well. If you’re not confident about installing your smart video doorbell, don’t hesitate to hire a professional.
How Much Does A Smart Video Doorbell Cost?
Smart video doorbells typically cost between $50-$200. When you buy a more expensive doorbell, you should gain access to more advanced features.
Where to Buy a Smart Video Doorbell
Aqara is the most reliable provider of smart video doorbells. You can also get additional smart devices for your home on this “Where To Buy” page. In the US, Aqara partners with retailers like The Home Depot, Adorama, and Amazon.
