Floodlight cameras combine powerful lighting with high-definition surveillance, offering a proactive way to protect your home. If you’re a smart home enthusiast or simply want the best in outdoor security, floodlight cameras are an excellent addition to your setup. But what is a floodlight camera exactly, and how do you install one?
This guide provides clear steps for how to install one of our floodlight cameras, whether it’s wired or wireless, plus expert tips on camera placement for maximum coverage and deterrence.
What Is a floodlight camera?
A floodlight camera combines a motion-activated floodlight with a security camera. Our floodlight cameras also provide HD video, two-way audio, night vision, and smart alerts. This makes them a strong deterrent for intruders and a valuable asset for any security-conscious homeowner. For more information see Arlo's Wired Floodlight Camera.
How to install an Arlo wired floodlight camera
Wired floodlight cameras require existing electrical wiring (typically from an old light fitting). They should be installed by a licensed electrician, but here's a summary of key steps:
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Turn off power at the breaker - Before starting installation of your floodlight camera, turn off power at the circuit breaker to avoid electric shock.
Mount the junction box - Fix the junction box to the wall. The power cable needs to fed into the junction box to allow the camera to be wired in correctly.
Connect the wires - Follow the wiring diagram included in the box or use Arlo’s step-by-step wired floodlight installation guide. [LINK: https://www.arlo.com/en_gb/support/faq/000063421/how-do-i-install-my-arlo-wired-floodlight-camera-europe
Attach and secure the floodlight camera - Once wired, fit the camera to the bracket, secure it with the provided screws, and restore power to test the light and camera.
Complete setup in the Arlo app - Open the Arlo Secure app, select Add Device > Cameras > Floodlight Camera (Wired) and follow the on-screen instructions to sync your camera to Wi-Fi and your account.
General camera placement and setup tips
Correct placement is essential to get the best results from your floodlights with camera. Here are some positioning tips for when you install a floodlight camera: :
- Angle and height - Mount cameras 2–3 metres off the ground for the best field of view. Angle them slightly downward to capture faces and movement clearly.
Avoid backlighting - Avoid pointing the camera directly at reflective surfaces or light sources like the sun or headlights, as this can reduce image clarity.
Use the app's positioning tool - Use Arlo's live view to test your field of vision and motion detection zone during installation.
Cover important entry points - Prioritise high-traffic or vulnerable areas like driveways, back gardens, garages, or side gates.
Learning how to install a floodlight camera might feel technical, but it’s completely manageable, even for first-timers. Remember though that a wired camera should always be installed by a qualified electrician.
Whether wired or wireless, a floodlight camera is one of the smartest ways to protect and modernise your home.