If you have been thinking of placing Home Security System cameras then you are likely to ask – are Ring cameras waterproof? Due to their elegance and functionality, The Ring cameras are among the frequently used devices for home surveillance and protection. However, when planning to use them outdoors or in areas where they are exposed to water or humidity, it is very useful to know the level of water resistance of the product.
WR vs IPX Ratings
When buying electronics such as Best Security Cameras, you will come across devices that are labeled as water-resistant or waterproof. What is the difference between these ratings?
Water resistance implies a device is protected by seals and barriers that will prevent water absorption in instances of splashing water and light rain. Sweat and rain-resistant devices are safe from minor wetting but not suitable for underwater use.
Waterproof items do not allow water to penetrate their surface and continue functioning even if submerged in water for some time. They can endure the powerful jets, the streaming water, and even the temporary use underwater.
Knowledge of official ingress protection (IP) ratings aids in determining the level of waterproof or water-resistant a camera is for wet conditions.
IP Ratings for Ring Cameras
Ring cameras and Video doorbells have varying levels of weatherproofing ranging from IPX4 to IPX7. Here’s what those IP ratings allow:
• IPX4 – Protected from water splashing from any direction
• IPX5 – Protected from water projected by a nozzle from any angle
• IPX7: protected against water, including during temporary submersion
This means that although the Ring devices can take some beating from wet weather and water splashes, they are not thoroughly waterproof to allow for use underwater for long.
It is also worth mentioning that water protection decreases with time. One of the issues with Ring devices is that the seals that protect the devices tend to degrade after prolonged exposure to the outdoor environment.
Durability of the Ring Cameras to Water
Here is how the most popular Ring security cameras and doorbells stand up to moisture, from least to most water-resistant:
➔ Ring Video Doorbell Wired – IPX5
Though it is an affordable video doorbell, it does not support hosing with water but it is safe to be sprayed with water. Install under an overhang.
➔ Ring Stick Up Cam Battery – IPX5
Just like the Doorbell Wired, the Stick Up Cam Battery only offers splash protection which is good enough for shaded outdoor spaces. Be connected to power for the best results to be achieved.
➔ Ring Video Doorbell 4 – IPX5
It is equally significant to note that the latest Ring Doorbell model is resistant to heavy misting and splashing without submersion.
➔ Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 - IPX4
Not as watery as other Rings but can handle splashing of water. Ideal for shelter porches.
➔ Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In - IPX5
It has great spray resistance and can withstand outdoor conditions if connected to an indoor outlet or a solar panel.
➔ Ring Floodlight Cam Wired & Wireless – IPX7
The Floodlight Cam has the best protection against water, as it is capable of withstanding temporary immersion as long as the power cord is not connected. The preferable Ring choice when it comes to exposed zones.
How to Safely Set up Ring Cameras Outside?
While Ring cameras themselves aren’t fully waterproof, you can take steps to protect them from excess moisture exposure when installing them outside:
• Place in areas of use under overhangs as well as in covered porches if possible
• Cover all the wire connectors which are exposed with dielectric grease
• If possible, use a cable instead of battery power for the item or device used for a particular activity.
• Examine the exterior seals periodically for any rubbing after exposure to check that water resistance is preserved
• Think about getting a weather shield for standalone cameras
Shelter-mounted cameras should also be good to go and should be tested on-site before being permanently fixed. As for the Ring devices themselves, they can handle wet weather just fine, however, moisture can enter through mounts, wires, and connections and gradually wear down the unprotected devices left outdoors.
The Bottom Line
But are Ring cameras waterproof? Though Ring devices are weatherproof and durable in the presence of moisture, these devices are not waterproof to be submerged in water. This is because they have got an IPX4 to IPX7 waterproof rating, which permits them to be used exterior when correctly fitted. However, excessive exposure to wiring and power connections should be avoided particularly in their connections.
Understanding the performance of RIng devices during wet weather and knowing the IP ratings would assist one in choosing the right cameras that can be used in covered and uncovered areas. Another factor that cannot be overlooked is installation. It goes a long way while installing the product too. And keep all the points that can be exploited by hackers, safe and secure.
To prevent potential water damage, and with the knowledge of the limitations of water protection, your Ring cameras or video doorbell can also act as security cameras in any weather!
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