DIY external power for security camera - Charge wireless Security Cameras with light switch power

In this video, I show you the very first, easy, cheap, DIY external power install for battery powered security cameras to recharge anytime. No more unmounting for charging required.
(NOTE: These steps may be applicable to other security cameras by Wyze, Ring, Arlo, Reolink and others too. Not just for Eufy security cameras)!
Find out how to externally power your battery powered security cameras 24x7 or charge anytime you want with a flip of a switch!
The solution is very effective as the wire free security cameras charge overnight when we turn on the house lights. We also don’t need to worry about battery power when winter hits!
*** Please see important info on Winter use in the sections below.
Subscribe (Help us reach our ambitious goal - 25K subscribers by end of year)
→ kzbin.info...
Share now:
Facebook → bit.ly/39UM4CM
Pinterest → bit.ly/3q0qDpm
Reddit → bit.ly/3rlcaVk
Twitter → bit.ly/2YU9nGt
If you want to buy the security cameras or products we used for the install check the links below!
#eufyofficial #eufycam #eufysecurity #eufysecuritycam #eufycamaus #homesecurity #security #smarthome #surveillance #securitysystem #securitycamera #homeautomation
eufy outdoor motion sensor DIY
→ • DIY Eufy outdoor motio...
See how easy it is to install battery powered security cameras:
→ • How to install a Wirel...
===
Did you ENJOY this video?
→ Buy us a Super Thanks in KZbin app
→ Buy us a coffee! buymeacoff.ee/FrakkingCreations
===
Important Note: After using this solution for some time now we received a message from the app stating: "Unable to charge. The camera battery is unable to be charged when ambient temperature is higher than 45 °C (113 °F) or lower than 0 °C (32 °F)".
Find out more in our 1st Winter Update video → • Update: Eufy security ...
If you find our videos useful you can support our channel by using our affiliate links to purchase the products in our video, similar or better. As Associates of Amazon, eBay and others we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.
EufyCam E 1080p wire-free home security camera system (Used in video) → amzn.to/2ooWaqD
Eufy dual cam doorbell E340 → eufy.sjv.io/JzGLj7
Eufy Solar Wall light → eufy.sjv.io/Kj1q9A
Eufy floodlight cam S330 → eufy.sjv.io/DKPb1o
Eufy add-on Motion sensor → eufy.sjv.io/jrkn2v
128 GB Lexar MicroSD card → amzn.to/2yUlYjB
Alternative camera mounts:
→ amzn.to/3ANRwl6 (Gutter mount)
→ amzn.to/3FO1Wom (Wall mount)
→ amzn.to/3DSttmG (Pole mount)
→ amzn.to/3yEb4Hr (Vinyl siding hanger/clips)
Light Socket plug adapter (Similar to one used in video)
→ amzn.to/2NdaScn
Wyze Socket Power Adapter (Convert standard bulbs into motion-activated lights)
→ amzn.to/3zwBTRc
USB Light Socket plug adapter (Some viewers suggested this instead)
→ amzn.to/3e0aQ3j
USB cable (1m, 2m, 3m, black, white, red, gray, sky blue)
→ bit.ly/2U0jTZQ
(use ePacket for faster shipping)
Alternate USB Cables (Different than used in the video)
→ amzn.to/3Tf7Kh1
Need a longer USB power cable (up to 150 ft)?
Watch our DIY hack → • 150 ft USB extension c...
Small USB charger (Different than used in the video though it may work for you. You also need to check fitment)
→ amzn.to/2pd7Rkk
All purpose Silicone (Different than used in the video)
→ amzn.to/2NbLQKR
Try Amazon Prime 30-days free → amzn.to/3oxzcGH
===
Visit us → frakkingcreations.com/
===
Soundtrack:
Otis McDonald - Church of 8 Wheels
Disclaimer:
Any information available at this channel or on its videos are intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for advice provided by an appropriate or qualified professional.
Due to many factors beyond the control of Frakking Creations, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Frakking Creations assumes no liability for property damage, injury or loss incurred as a result of improper use of tools, equipment or from any of the information contained in this video. Frakking Creations recommends safe practices when working with tools seen or implied in this video.
Use this information at your own risk.
N09240712, L06240422, EL16240421
0:00 Introduction
1:38 Proper camera location
2:01 Plan out wiring route
2:24 Install & run USB cable
3:22 Install Light socket adapter
3:44 Install USB charger & Cable
5:11 Test
5:19 Cleanup & Waterproofing

[@jstallworth6602]

I literally just did this today! and it works, thanks! My light bulb is remote control, so I don't have to have the light on during the day, once again thanks!

[@FrakkingCreations]

You're welcome! Glad it worked out great for you. Thanks for giving feedback on this too. Please share our videos with anyone else it will help. Appreciate the help in growing our channel. If you haven't already, checkout our other videos too.

[@EXPATditions]

Thanks for the tip. Never thought of the Lamp Pocket Plug Adapter. Those things can be life savers.

[@FrakkingCreations]

You're welcome. Yes, the adapters are very useful. Glad the video was useful to you. Thanks for commenting. Please subscribe and share our videos with anyone else you think it will help.

[@Kaibil66]

Excellent idea I'll try it too. Thanks for the tip

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thank you. We also have a solar solution so check that out too if you're interested! kzbin.info/www/bejne/gn7QiKKmq9OXl7s

[@ac_tv2050]

Eufy floodlight would be a great set up too!

[@jeyvinlima6227]

Wow so smart I’m totally doing this thanks

[@FrakkingCreations]

You're welcome. Thank for commenting! Hope it works out just as good for you as it does for us. Please subscribe and share our video! Much appreciated.

[@smartbunny6680]

Great work!👍 Very inspiring and helpful tips. Thank you for sharing.

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thank you! 🙂

[@sweetapple6314]

Excellent product to use this EUFY CAMERA TO MONITOR INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF YOUR HOUSE. 100% proven when we"re outside the country for 3 weeks and tried to check how this EUFY CAMERA worked and was surprised how vivid the camera was. You can see how clear the pictures, the movements with clear sounds. And the notifications are amazing. Brilliant product for peace of mind ! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us!

[@kinocchio]

wow this is clever, i will try doing this.

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thanks for commenting. Let us know how it goes for you!

[@circle4922]

I actually asked Eufy about a way to "hard wire" (have constant power) these cameras and they said to use a usb phone charger as you've done here. I came to look for ideas on youtube. This is a clever idea, well done. Thanks for sharing this. Edit: Now, if I can find silicone skins for these that will ship to canada, I'll be set.

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thank you for commenting to let me know! Appreciate it. Good idea to ask eufy... Always go right to the source! At least they seem to be ok with people constantly powering the cameras. Or else I would think they would tell you not to. I agree with you that Canada has less options for products. Such a shame. Did you try amazon.com or uk? They sometimes ship to Canada too. Most people just don't know that they can order from them too.

[@circle4922]

​@@FrakkingCreations They were pretty good with answering the questions I had. Here's what they said when I asked about constant power/charging: "I understand that you want to use the solar panel to charge the camera, please know that we have no suggestions here since we don't recommend our users to use the third parties solar panel because there may be some compatibility issue. But you can consider hardwiring the camera by keeping the camera plugged into a USB-to-micro USB adapter. For better performance of the battery, we recommended our users to charge the camera via the supplied cable with the Homebase." The silicone skins are listed on amazon.ca, but it's laughable at $75 CAD -- often there are ridiculous, seemingly accidental listings/pricing on items there, maybe because it's not set up yet, or hasn't been listed as prime, or some other situation. I did find them on amazon.com, sold from eufy, for $15 USD - but it doesn't ship to canada. I had a .com account until just recently when I realized how much I was paying for it, haha. I mainly want it for the black color. I think if they had a black and/or brown option, and even a "camo" or wood pattern, that they might sell pretty good. It seems people use Arlo's for rodent surveillance, and that's what I plan to use these for - mainly.

[@jodajackson4489]

Brilliant!!!

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thanks for the comment. Appreciate it. Checkout our other videos for security cameras too, like solar power and more if you're interested. And please subscribe and share our videos with anyone else you think will be interested. Thanks for the support.

[@steveswanproductionstt6355]

Great it idea, I also want to try this but I'll use a smart plug that. FYI, there are USB cables as long as 15 feet. I have one.

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thanks for commenting. It's good to know there are 15' long USB cables. Let us know how it goes if you try this hack out!

[@brandonboyd5348]

That's pretty smart

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thank you. We like to share our ideas and hopefully it helps others get ideas to try for themselves.

[@couponlover93]

😯 so cool

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thank you. You might like our other videos too! Checkout our video on DIY solar power for security cameras here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gn7QiKKmq9OXl7s

[@FrakkingCreations]

Also, a 150ft USB power cable hack here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqbOaKSraMR4epY

[@danielwalsh4961]

Great idea. I have a 3 gang switch box on the inside of the wall. perfect spot for power but I don' think there is a transformer small enough. Any ideas how to power a doorbell from a switch box?

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thank you. I haven't looked into power for doorbell cameras yet, so I don't have any ideas for you. Sorry.

[@jorkirasalas2726]

There was a recent post on Eufy UK Facebook group- someone had used a right-angled usb connector to fit the Eufy E340 dual cam doorbell battery and IIRC feed power from a solar panel

[@DJMaverickk]

What happens if you don't need to charge the battery and need to put on the light? I recommend installing an independent toggle switch on the light fixture to charge the camera.

[@FrakkingCreations]

That's possible too and would work for those that have that situation. Thanks for suggesting it.

[@NeedToBike]

Question: if I get those long cables attach one side of it to the camera and cut the other side is it like a normal cables where it has brown and blue? Want something that I can wire up straight to a light switch so the camera will get it’s power from a light switch regardless if that light switch is on or turned off.

[@FrakkingCreations]

No you cannot do that. The USB cable that i used is a USB cable which is for 5V DC power. If you wire that to the main power from the house you will fry the camera and potentially hurt yourself. You could potentially install a 120V (or 220V depending on where you live) power outlet near the light where you can plug the USB adapter that charges the camera. But at least 2 things come to mind for this, if not more... 1) the outlet should be a covered outlet to protect against the elements. 2) you cannot use the power lines that go to the lights. If you do then the outlet you install will be turned off as well when the lights are turned off. Hope that helps.

[@NeedToBike]

@@FrakkingCreations gotcha, thanks for letting me know.

[@kapaluatime]

Which usb cable did you use? There are so many different types. Is there a model #? Thanks. Good video

[@FrakkingCreations]

The first cable set that is listed in the video description are the cables I used

[@loupagano3503]

Can the power to the camera from the light remain on all the time or must it be shut off after a full charge has been achieved?

[@FrakkingCreations]

We haven't tested having the power on all the time before. But I believe that the charging circuitry of the cameras would be very similar to cell phone ones in that once the battery is fully charged it would stop charging the batteries. In essence, your scenario would be similar to one of a powered camera with backup battery power.

[@eumernunez6706]

Jajajaj bro you are a genius

[@FrakkingCreations]

Thanks for the comment! Let us know if it works well for you too.

[@MrSam-mg5ut]

I wanted to do same thing for REOLINK pro cam but according to REOLINK website, the power adapter 24*7 connection will reduce the camera battery life.

[@FrakkingCreations]

If you do this wouldn't you only have it on at night when it's dark out? So not really 24x7 but maybe only charging 10 hours a day.

[@mjz187]

I noticed that some of the cord is exposed and wounded if that's safe? The area I live in get a lot of rain.

[@FrakkingCreations]

Which part of the cord are you referring to?

[@mjz187]

Like at 3:19. Could I have the body of the cords exposed to the rain and just have the ends hidden from the rain? Sorry if I confused you 😅 english not my specialty

[@FrakkingCreations]

No problem. Your English is fine. I just wanted to make sure I am answering the right question. The body of the cord can be exposed. Only thing would be to make sure that the ends aren't installed in a way where if water gets on the body of the cord it doesn't drip down and pool at the ends. Even though you waterproof the ends you don't want water pooling near them.

[@mohamedjuma3633]

What if my outside garage lights works with on/off switch what is the solution to keep power on all the time.

[@FrakkingCreations]

You could try a solar install like our other DIY video, though it's not powered on all the time. Alternatively, you will just have to power it with a normal outlet. You could use a long USB cable or another hack like a Ethernet USB adapter like our other DIY solution here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqbOaKSraMR4epY if you need a longer cable.

[@FrakkingCreations]

You will just have to route the cable to an outlet in the garage.

[@mohamedjuma3633]

@@FrakkingCreations I was just checking if there was any other way to power the camera. I did not want to make a hole through the wood or dry wall. Any way thanks for your advice

[@bonnenaturel6688]

Can this be done to charge a solar powered battery for a security camera?

[@FrakkingCreations]

If you are talking about the battery powered security cameras that have solar panels built in, then I believe it should work too. Unless the camera has functionality that purposely prevents it, I would think it would charge the same as any other camera. Even the solar battery cameras should have a way to charge externally. At least this is what I would expect. Hope that answers your question.

[@TechAndHobby]

What if my lamb is not a light bulb but Led instead?

[@FrakkingCreations]

If you want to use the same bulb socket adaptor as shown then the LED lamp would need to be household power (120 V or 240 V) with the same socket type. If it's different then you will need some other adapter, assuming it exists. Not too sure what your LED lamp setup is.

[@johnsonvender1067]

Just curious, which province you're based?

[@FrakkingCreations]

We live in Alberta

[@ronshagnasty3972]

Second request for links to rt angle cable and small 5v supply please

[@FrakkingCreations]

Where are you watching our videos from? All links can be found in the video description. You can also find them here: frakkingcreations.com/diy-eufy-external-power-install-wire-free-security-camera-charging-24x7-how-to-guide-eufy-cam-e/

[@FrakkingCreations]

Our latest video is now out. If you're interested, it's a DIY hack for 150 ft long USB Power cable for smart security cameras.

[@evrenartk4086]

Hello, Can i use this in UAE ??? UAE volts 120-220V

[@evrenartk4086]

if i can use it. i think take a plug converter

[@FrakkingCreations]

If you are talking about the Light Socket plug adapter then i don't think so since the plug types are different than used in UAE. If you are referring to the USB socket adapter then you woulf need to ask the seller if it supports 230V 50Hz voltage supply.

[@FrakkingCreations]

For the light socket plug adapter, it does not change the voltage or current so if you have a proper plug adapter from type A (north america) to type G (UAE) and also have a usb charger that works in UAE then this should work.

[@lewisc7866]

Isn’t when power is on, the cam will light up the charging led?

[@FrakkingCreations]

@Lewis C Yes. It will light up the charging LED. Is that a concern?

[@lewisc7866]

@@FrakkingCreations I figured out, apparently, even you use AC powered, you can set the power source to solar panel, then led charging light will turn off and it will still charging

[@FrakkingCreations]

@Lewis C That's true. I wonder if that setting does anything else. When it first came out the app didn't inform what it does. Now when I set it, the app provides a message that says it turns off the LED.

[@lewisc7866]

Yes, the only different is turn off the charging led and in-app charging indicator.

[@absolutely1337]

there are tons of long usb cables on amazon...i just make my own. if you have any basic skills, its easy.

[@FrakkingCreations]

For this install you need the USB cables that have a 90 bend at the micro USB adapter. So not all USB cables work. And yes, we do provide a link to a USB cable on Amazon. Making your own is also another option.

[@joyjoy534]

Get a USB light socket adapter and no glass removal is necessary.

[@FrakkingCreations]

Do you have a link to an example?

[@Xmatador20]

Does this hack work for any wireless battery operated camera like (Arlo,Ring,etc)

[@XavierGM503]

@@Xmatador20 it should!

[@FrakkingCreations]

Here's our latest eufy winter update video if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/boPVYmSQeJuirZY

[@FrakkingCreations]

FYI...Our latest video is out now. If you're interested, it's a DIY hack for 150 ft long USB Power cable for smart security cameras.

[@absolutely1337]

2:45 omg don't push on the wire with a sharp knife!

[@FrakkingCreations]

It's not as bad as it may look. I gently pushed it in with a drywall putty knife, which isn't that sharp. But for those concerned, you can choose to use other tools.

[@SamGlasser]

The whole point of a Eufy cam is so you don't have to string wires, want wires, get an Arlo.

[@FrakkingCreations]

Well it depends. There are many factors. Selecting eufy also was due to having no subscriptions or expensive accessories. Plus eufy has better video and audio for similar priced system. Also, the wired solution here can be used for the cameras you don't have easy access to so that you can easily charge them. You don't need to do this for all cameras. Plus, wired cameras usually have large adapters that are 110/220V. These adapters are big and won't fit in an easy to install power solution like this. In other words, the power adapters like these won't fit in the lamp fixtures so you will need to run extension socket power to where the 110/220V adapter can reach and plug into

[@dadduorp]

I've had an Arlo system for 5 years and just bought the Eufy. I bought the latter for a vacation home that we visit once a year as I have to change the Arlo batterie$$ every couple of months. This method is something I wish the Arlo's had.

[@FrakkingCreations]

So far the Eufy has been working well for us. We'll have a winter update video out this Saturday which will include updates on the external power and solar power mods, so stay tuned for that. If you haven't already watched, check out our solar power install for Eufy. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gn7QiKKmq9OXl7s

[@FrakkingCreations]

Here's our latest eufy winter update video if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/boPVYmSQeJuirZY

[@FrakkingCreations]

Looking for an extra long USB power cable... Our latest video is now out. If you're interested, it's a DIY hack for 150 ft long USB Power cable for smart security cameras.