These days, a CCTV camera system is a must for most commercial operations. A key component of any good security system, it helps keep your business, your people, and your customers safe.
However, a commercial CCTV system can quickly become little more than wall decoration if it’s not maintained correctly. While most modern systems are extremely robust, they still need to be checked regularly to make sure they are working as designed. Without this, the whole system could become completely ineffective… and chances are you won’t know until it’s too late.
Here we look at the top five reasons regular CCTV maintenance is critical to your commercial operation.
#1 It helps make sure everything is working correctly
We’ll start with the most obvious benefit – regular CCTV maintenance keeps your system running. Without it out, issues could develop, and your equipment could be compromised, or not work at all. This means that, if there are issues (theft, injury, etc.), you will have limited coverage.
If you’re like most business owners, you probably only check your CCTV system when something goes wrong. As such, you will probably not notice any minor issues or see if something stops working.
However, having a set CCTV maintenance schedule will mean your equipment is checked at regular intervals. This helps minimise the risk of major faults and should ensure everything is working when you need it most.
#2 It keeps everything clean and focused
Your CCTV camera system goes through a lot, particularly if it’s exposed to the elements. Over time, the effects of wind, rain, and dirt can build up and begin to obscure the view. Unless you’re checking your cameras regularly, this is easy to miss.
Regular CCTV maintenance can help avoid this issue. As part of regular maintenance, your technician will check the condition of each part of the system. This includes cleaning all lenses and fans to remove any dirt or other build up.
They will also check your camera alignment to make sure they haven’t been knocked or blown out of position. They will even do a walk test to make sure your CCTV system still tracks and moves as designed. All of this helps make sure that you have the best footage possible, when you need it most.
#3 It helps you keep up with the latest developments
Commercial CCTV technology is constantly changing and evolving. As such, there are always new tools and techniques that could benefit your business.
As part of your regular maintenance, your technician will assess the state of your CCTV system and recommend any required improvements. This will help make sure your system is keeping pace with technology changes and is providing the best possible coverage. It also means you can proactively upgrade your CCTV in stages, rather than being forced into replacing your entire system.
#4 It helps make sure your CCTV system stays fit for purpose
Technology isn’t the only thing that changes over time, your business will grow and evolve too. Often, this can impact the effectiveness of your CCTV camera system.
Maybe you’ve moved where you store your stock, so now need a new angle or entry covered. Maybe you’ve put up a new display, which is blocks the view of one of your main cameras. Or maybe construction in the area has changed foot traffic around your store.
Whatever the change, the design of your CCTV system will need to be adjusted to suit. Regular servicing will make sure this is not missed and that you’re still fully covered.
#5 It could help you save money
It may seem counterintuitive but spending money on regular CCTV maintenance could actually save you money in the long run.
Most CCTV system faults will start of small and should be easy to fix if caught early. However, if they are not found, they will likely get worse and develop into more major issues. If that happens, you’re probably looking at a full CCTV upgrade, rather than minor repairs.
Moreover, depending on your policy, a fully functional commercial CCTV system should help reduce your insurance premiums. However, your insurer would expect the system to be serviced regularly – in fact, this is probably written into your contract. As such, if you do have an issue, your insurance may not cover you if they find your CCTV camera system has not been maintained.
Want more information on commercial CCTV maintenance?
If you’d like to schedule regular CCTV maintenance, or are unhappy with your current maintenance company, give Tecsec Security Solutions a call. Our experienced technicians are experts in commercial CCTV technologies and can help you get the most from your system.
Contact us today to arrange your free onsite security appraisal.