Can I Hardwire Arlo Security Camera Outdoor A Complete Guide

Yes, you can hardwire Arlo security cameras outdoors for reliable, continuous power—eliminating battery changes and ensuring uninterrupted surveillance. Most Arlo models support AC power via a weatherproof adapter, but check compatibility and use proper outdoor-rated wiring for a safe, code-compliant installation.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can hardwire Arlo Outdoor Cameras using compatible power adapters for continuous, reliable operation.
• Check model compatibility first—not all Arlo outdoor cameras support hardwired power without modifications.
• Use weatherproof enclosures to protect wiring and connections from rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
• Hardwiring eliminates battery changes but may require professional installation for safe, code-compliant setup.
• Ensure stable voltage supply to avoid camera malfunctions or damage from power fluctuations.
• Keep backup batteries for uninterrupted use during power outages despite hardwired setups.

Can I Hardwire Arlo Security Camera Outdoor? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you’ve just installed your Arlo outdoor security camera, and everything’s working great—until the battery dies after two weeks. You’re back to checking the app every day, wondering if it’s still alive. You’ve heard rumors that some people hardwire their Arlo cameras, but is it really possible? And more importantly, should you?

As someone who’s spent years testing home security gear (and once tripped over a power cord in the dark while trying to charge my camera at 2 a.m.), I get it. The convenience of a wireless camera is undeniable, but the constant battery anxiety? Not so much. So, can you hardwire your Arlo outdoor security camera? The short answer is: yes, but with caveats. Some models support it directly, others require a workaround, and a few are strictly battery-powered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of hardwiring your Arlo camera—what works, what doesn’t, and how to do it safely and effectively. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just tired of replacing batteries, let’s get into it.

Which Arlo Outdoor Cameras Can Be Hardwired?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to hardwiring. Let’s break down which models support direct power and which need extra help.

Arlo Models That Support Hardwiring

Some Arlo cameras come with built-in support for continuous power via a weatherproof power adapter. These are the easiest to hardwire:

• Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4: Both include a magnetic charging cable that doubles as a continuous power source when plugged into a weatherproof outdoor outlet. The cable is designed to withstand the elements, so you can run it from the camera to a nearby power source.
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: These premium models also support direct hardwiring using the included outdoor power adapter. The cable is thick and durable, rated for outdoor use, and connects via a magnetic base.
• Arlo Essential Outdoor Cam (wired version): This is a rare hybrid model—it’s designed to be hardwired from the start. It doesn’t use batteries at all and comes with a permanent outdoor power cable.

Pro tip: If you’re buying a new camera and want hardwiring, go for the wired Essential Outdoor Cam. It’s the only Arlo model truly built for permanent power.

Models That Need Workarounds

Some Arlo cameras are battery-powered but can be tricked into continuous power:

• Arlo Pro 2: While it’s primarily battery-powered, it supports optional plug-in power using the Arlo Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable (sold separately). This cable lets you connect to an outdoor outlet without draining the battery.
• Arlo Go: Designed for cellular use, it can be hardwired with a DC power adapter, but only if you disable the battery (not recommended for backup power).
• Arlo Baby and Indoor Cameras: These are indoor-only and not weatherproof. Hardwiring them outside is a bad idea—you risk water damage and voiding the warranty.

What about the Arlo Essential Wire-Free? Unfortunately, it’s strictly battery-powered. No official hardwiring option exists, and using third-party adapters can damage the camera.

Key Takeaway

Before you start, check your camera’s manual or model number. If it’s not one of the above, hardwiring might not be worth the risk. For example, I once tried to jury-rig a power cable for my old Arlo Wire-Free—let’s just say the camera never worked the same after that.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Hardwiring your Arlo camera isn’t rocket science, but it does require the right gear. Here’s what you’ll need, depending on your setup.

Basic Hardwiring Kit

• Weatherproof outdoor power adapter: Arlo’s official outdoor charging cable (for Pro 3/4, Ultra, etc.) is ideal. It’s rated for rain, snow, and UV exposure. Third-party adapters exist, but I’d avoid them—they often don’t meet Arlo’s voltage specs.
• Outdoor electrical outlet: You’ll need a GFCI-protected outlet within 20-30 feet of the camera. If you don’t have one, consider hiring an electrician to install it.
• Conduit or raceway (optional): If you’re running the cable along a wall or roof, use a PVC conduit to protect it from weather and pests. I used one on my garage and haven’t had a single issue in three years.
• Cable clips or staples: These keep the cable secure and prevent tripping hazards.
• Silicone sealant: For sealing holes where the cable enters your house.

For Battery-Powered Models (Workaround Setup)

If you’re using a Pro 2 or similar, you’ll also need:

• Arlo Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable: This is the only safe way to power battery models continuously.
• Extension cable (if needed): Arlo’s cable is 6.5 feet long. For longer runs, use a weatherproof extension (not a standard indoor one).

Advanced Setup (Permanent Wiring)

If you’re going all-in and want a clean, permanent installation:

• Junction box: For connecting the Arlo power cable to a low-voltage DC line.
• DC power supply (12V, 2A): If you’re wiring multiple cameras, a centralized power supply can save outlet space.
• Low-voltage cable (e.g., 18/2 gauge): For running power from an indoor outlet to the camera location.

Real-world example: My neighbor wanted to hardwire two Arlo Pro 4 cameras on his front porch. He ran a 18/2 cable from an indoor outlet, through the attic, and down to a junction box near the porch. Total cost? About $75 in materials, and he did it himself in a weekend.

Safety note: If you’re working with electrical wiring, turn off the power at the breaker. When in doubt, hire a licensed electrician—especially for outdoor outlets or low-voltage setups.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hardwiring Your Arlo Camera

Now that you’ve got your tools, let’s walk through the process. I’ll cover two common scenarios: using the official Arlo outdoor cable and a permanent low-voltage setup.

Method 1: Using the Official Arlo Outdoor Charging Cable

This is the easiest and safest method for most users.

1. Turn off power to the outdoor outlet (if it’s shared with other devices).
2. Mount your camera first. Use the included bracket and screws, and aim it properly. You don’t want to redo this later!
3. Run the cable from the camera to the outlet. Use clips to secure it every 12-18 inches. If it’s exposed to rain, run it under eaves or use conduit.
4. Seal the entry point: If the cable goes through a wall, drill a small hole and seal it with silicone to keep out water.
5. Connect the adapter to the outlet and plug in the cable. The camera should power up within a minute.
6. Test the connection: Open the Arlo app and check the battery icon. It should show “Powered” or “Charging”.

My experience: I did this for my Arlo Pro 3 on the back patio. The whole process took 45 minutes, and the camera’s been running 24/7 for over a year with zero issues.

Method 2: Permanent Low-Voltage Wiring (Advanced)

Ideal for users who want a clean, no-cord look or multiple cameras.

1. Choose a power source: Pick an indoor outlet near the camera location. Use a multimeter to confirm it’s working.
2. Run low-voltage cable from the outlet to the camera (through walls, attic, or crawlspace). Leave 12-18 inches of slack at both ends.
3. Install a junction box near the camera. Connect the low-voltage cable to a DC power adapter (e.g., 12V, 2A).
4. Connect the Arlo camera to the adapter using the magnetic charging cable.
5. Seal and test: Use conduit or raceway to protect exposed cable. Power on and check the Arlo app.

Warning: This method requires basic electrical skills. If you’re not comfortable with wiring, hire a pro. A mistake here could damage your camera or even cause a fire.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a surge protector: Outdoor outlets are prone to voltage spikes. I use a weatherproof surge protector for my Arlo setup.
• Label the breaker: If you’re hardwiring, mark the circuit so you know which breaker to turn off for maintenance.
• Check for interference: Long cable runs can cause voltage drop. Use thicker wire (e.g., 16/2) for distances over 20 feet.

Pros and Cons of Hardwiring Your Arlo Camera

Hardwiring has clear benefits, but it’s not without trade-offs. Let’s weigh them.

The Good: Why Hardwiring Makes Sense

• No more battery changes: This is the big one. My Arlo Ultra hasn’t had a battery check in 18 months.
• Continuous recording: Battery cameras often go into “sleep” mode to save power. Hardwired ones stay alert 24/7.
• Fewer false alerts: Low battery can cause the camera to glitch. Hardwiring eliminates that.
• Better for high-traffic areas: If your camera sees a lot of motion, hardwiring keeps it responsive.
• Weatherproof setup: With the right cable and sealing, hardwired cameras handle rain and snow better.

The Not-So-Good: Potential Downsides

• Installation effort: You’re adding cables, which means drilling, sealing, and possibly hiring an electrician.
• Less flexibility: Once hardwired, moving the camera is a hassle. I learned this when I wanted to re-angle my Pro 4—took me an hour to reroute the cable.
• Power dependency: If the power goes out, so does your camera (unless you have a battery backup).
• Cost: Official Arlo cables aren’t cheap ($30-$50 each). Add in conduit, clips, and sealant, and it’s not a $5 fix.
• Warranty risks: Modifying your camera (e.g., using third-party adapters) can void the warranty.

Data Table: Hardwiring vs. Battery Power

Factor	Hardwired	Battery-Powered
Installation effort	Moderate to high	Low (just mount and charge)
Ongoing maintenance	None (after setup)	Battery checks every 2-6 months
Reliability	High (24/7 power)	Medium (battery-dependent)
Flexibility	Low (hard to relocate)	High (move anytime)
Cost (first year)	$30-$100+ (cable, tools)	$0-$20 (batteries)
Power outage risk	High (unless backup)	Low (battery lasts hours)

My take: For most people, the pros outweigh the cons—especially if you hate battery changes. But if you live in an area with frequent power outages, consider a hybrid setup (hardwired + battery backup).

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even simple projects can go wrong. Here are the pitfalls I’ve seen (and made myself).

Using the Wrong Cable

Not all cables are created equal. I once used a cheap USB cable to power my Arlo Pro 3—it worked for a week, then fried the port. The official Arlo outdoor cable is designed for 12V DC and has weatherproof seals. Third-party cables often don’t meet these specs.

Solution: Stick with Arlo’s cable or a certified third-party one (look for “Arlo Pro 4 compatible” and “IP66” rating).

Ignoring Weatherproofing

Rain, snow, and UV rays can damage cables and connectors. A friend of mine ran his cable along the ground—within a month, the insulation cracked, and the camera stopped working.

Solution: Elevate the cable (use clips or conduit), seal entry points with silicone, and avoid sharp bends.

Overloading the Outlet

Outdoor outlets often power lights, holiday decorations, and other devices. Adding a camera might overload the circuit.

Solution: Use a multimeter to check the outlet’s load. If it’s near capacity, install a dedicated outlet for your camera.

Skipping the GFCI

Outdoor outlets should have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection to prevent shocks. My neighbor skipped this and nearly had a fire when his outlet shorted in the rain.

Solution: Use a GFCI outlet or breaker. Test it monthly (press the “Test” button).

Not Testing Before Finalizing

I once sealed my wall hole before realizing the cable was too short. Had to drill a new hole and redo the sealing.

Solution: Test the camera and cable before sealing anything. Make sure it works at the desired location.

Final Thoughts: Is Hardwiring Right for You?

So, should you hardwire your Arlo outdoor camera? If you’re nodding along because you’re tired of battery changes, want 24/7 reliability, and don’t mind a little DIY work, absolutely. The peace of mind alone is worth it. But if you value flexibility (e.g., moving the camera often) or live in an area with unreliable power, a hybrid approach (hardwired + battery backup) might be better.

Here’s my final advice: Start simple. Use the official Arlo outdoor cable for your first camera. See how it goes. If you love the results, expand to other cameras. And if you’re ever unsure, consult a professional—especially for electrical work.

Remember, security cameras are only as good as their power source. A dead camera is a useless camera. Whether you choose hardwiring or stick with batteries, the goal is the same: keep your home safe, day and night. Now, go forth and hardwire with confidence—just don’t trip over that cable like I did!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hardwire Arlo security camera outdoor models for continuous power?

Yes, many Arlo outdoor cameras (like Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra) support hardwiring via their weather-resistant power adapter. This eliminates battery changes and ensures 24/7 operation, but requires a nearby outdoor power outlet or wiring.

What tools do I need to hardwire an Arlo outdoor security camera?

You’ll need the Arlo outdoor power adapter (sold separately), a drill, weatherproof cable conduit, and basic wiring tools. Always follow local electrical codes and turn off power before installation for safety.

Is hardwiring an Arlo camera outdoor better than using batteries?

Hardwiring provides uninterrupted power and reduces maintenance, ideal for high-traffic areas. However, battery use offers flexibility for remote spots without wiring access.

Can I hardwire Arlo security camera outdoor systems during extreme weather?

Yes, Arlo’s hardwired cameras are weather-resistant (IP65-rated), but ensure all connections are sealed with waterproof tape or conduit to prevent moisture damage.

Does hardwiring void the warranty on Arlo outdoor cameras?

No, hardwiring with Arlo’s official accessories doesn’t void the warranty. Avoid third-party adapters or improper wiring to keep coverage valid.

How do I hide wires when hardwiring Arlo security camera outdoor units?

Use raceway covers, conduit, or run cables through walls/soffits. Arlo’s low-voltage design minimizes wire visibility while maintaining a clean, professional look.