Can You Hardwire Arlo Camera to Outlets for Continuous Power

Yes, you can hardwire Arlo cameras to outlets for continuous power, eliminating battery changes and ensuring uninterrupted surveillance. Using a weatherproof junction box and compatible power adapter, you can safely connect your Arlo Pro or Ultra models directly to a standard outlet, ideal for permanent outdoor installations. This setup boosts reliability without voiding warranties when done correctly.

Key Takeaways

• Hardwiring is possible: Use Arlo’s AC adapter for direct outlet connection.
• No battery drain: Continuous power eliminates frequent battery replacements.
• Weatherproofing matters: Ensure outdoor outlets are covered and protected.
• Check compatibility: Not all Arlo models support hardwiring—verify first.
• DIY-friendly setup: No electrician needed for simple plug-and-play installation.
• Stable connection: Hardwiring reduces Wi-Fi interference and downtime.

Can You Hardwire Arlo Camera to Outlets for Continuous Power

Let’s face it—there’s nothing more frustrating than checking your home security feed only to find your Arlo camera is dead. You’re not alone. Many of us have stood in the driveway, squinting at a red blinking light on the camera, wondering if the kids are safe or if the neighbor’s cat knocked over the trash again. I’ve been there. I’ve cursed the sun, the rain, and even the occasional squirrel that chewed through a battery pack. But what if you could skip the battery drama altogether? What if you could plug your Arlo camera into a wall outlet and never worry about power again?

That’s exactly what we’re diving into today. You’ve probably asked yourself: Can you hardwire Arlo camera to outlets for continuous power? The short answer? Yes—but it’s not always as simple as just plugging it in. Depending on your Arlo model, your home setup, and your comfort level with DIY wiring, the path to constant power varies. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from compatible models and wiring options to safety tips and real-world examples. Whether you’re a tech-savvy homeowner or just someone tired of changing batteries every few weeks, this post will help you make an informed decision.

Why Hardwiring Your Arlo Camera Makes Sense

The Problem with Batteries

Arlo cameras are designed for flexibility. Most models, especially the popular Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra lines, run on rechargeable batteries. This makes them easy to install almost anywhere—front porch, backyard, garage, even a tree. But that convenience comes at a cost. Batteries drain. Fast. In cold weather, battery life can drop by up to 50%. If you’re recording 4K video or using motion detection frequently, you might be swapping batteries every 3–6 months. That’s not just inconvenient—it’s a security risk. A dead camera is a blind spot.

I remember one winter when I went three weeks without checking my back camera. When I finally did, the battery was dead. Turns out, my dog had knocked over a trash can, and a raccoon had a full party in the yard. I had no footage. No alerts. Nothing. That’s when I started researching how to hardwire my Arlo camera to an outlet. Continuous power means no more blind spots, no more guessing, and peace of mind—especially if you rely on your cameras for home security or monitoring deliveries.

Benefits of Continuous Power

• Reliable surveillance: No more missing critical events due to dead batteries.
• Fewer maintenance hassles: Once hardwired, you can set it and forget it.
• Better performance: Cameras with steady power can run advanced features like AI detection, 4K streaming, and night vision more consistently.
• Energy efficiency: Over time, using wall power can be cheaper and more eco-friendly than replacing batteries.
• Weather resistance: Hardwired setups often involve weatherproof enclosures, reducing exposure to moisture and temperature swings.

Imagine coming home after a week-long trip and knowing your cameras recorded every moment—without a single hiccup. That’s the kind of reliability hardwiring offers.

Which Arlo Cameras Can Be Hardwired?

Arlo Pro Series: The Sweet Spot for Hardwiring

The Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5S are among the most popular models for hardwiring. These cameras use a proprietary magnetic charging cable (often called the “Arlo power cable”) that plugs into a standard USB power adapter. The key? You can replace the battery pack with a hardwired power solution. Arlo even sells a Weatherproof Power Adapter Kit specifically for this purpose. It includes a 25-foot weather-resistant cable and a 5V/2A power adapter.

For example, I used the Pro 4 with the official power kit on my front porch. I ran the cable under the door frame, connected it to an outdoor-rated outlet, and sealed the entry point with silicone. No more battery changes. The camera runs 24/7, and I get crisp 2K HDR footage every time.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: 4K Power Demands

The Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2 are power-hungry beasts. They shoot 4K video, support color night vision, and have built-in spotlights. These features drain batteries fast—so hardwiring is almost a necessity for full functionality. Arlo offers a Ultra Power Cable (sold separately) that connects directly to the camera’s charging port. It’s a 25-foot, weatherproof cable with a USB-C end and a 5V/3A adapter. This higher amperage ensures the camera gets enough juice to run all features without throttling.

One caveat: The Ultra’s charging port is on the back of the camera, so you’ll need to position it carefully. I mounted mine under an eave, pointing slightly downward, so the cable doesn’t dangle and collect water. A little planning goes a long way.

Arlo Essential, Go, and Other Models: Limitations

Not all Arlo cameras are hardwire-friendly. The Arlo Essential line (like the Essential Spotlight Cam) uses a standard USB-C port, which means you *can* hardwire it—but only with third-party solutions. Arlo doesn’t sell an official power kit for these models, so you’ll need to use a weatherproof USB cable and a high-quality adapter. Be careful: some users report overheating or short circuits with cheap cables.

The Arlo Go is cellular-based and designed for off-grid use. It has a built-in solar panel and a large battery. Hardwiring it defeats the purpose—and it’s not officially supported. Similarly, the Arlo Wire-Free (older models) rely entirely on batteries and don’t have a charging port. No hardwiring option here.

Pro tip: Always check your camera’s manual or Arlo’s website for power specs. Look for terms like “5V/2A,” “USB-C,” or “magnetic charging port.” These indicate whether a hardwired solution is feasible.

How to Hardwire Your Arlo Camera: Step-by-Step Guide

Option 1: Use Arlo’s Official Power Kits (Recommended)

The easiest and safest way to hardwire your Arlo camera is with Arlo’s official power kits. Here’s how:

1. Buy the right kit: For Pro series, get the Weatherproof Power Adapter Kit. For Ultra, get the Ultra Power Cable.
2. Plan your cable route: Decide where the cable will run—under doors, through walls, or along gutters. Measure the distance to ensure the 25-foot cable is long enough.
3. Seal entry points: If running through a wall, use a silicone sealant or grommet to prevent water damage. For under doors, use a door sweep or threshold cover.
4. Connect the cable: Plug the magnetic end into your camera. The connection is secure and weather-resistant.
5. Power up: Plug the adapter into an outdoor-rated GFCI outlet. Test the camera to make sure it boots up and connects to Wi-Fi.

I did this with my Pro 3 in about 30 minutes. The magnetic connection is genius—it snaps in and stays put, even in wind and rain. Plus, if someone tries to steal the camera, the cable detaches easily, preventing damage.

Option 2: DIY Hardwiring with Third-Party Cables

If you’re comfortable with basic wiring, you can use third-party USB cables. But proceed with caution:

• Use a weatherproof USB cable with a silicone cover (rated IP67 or higher).
• Choose a high-quality adapter (5V/2A or 3A, depending on your camera).
• For outdoor outlets, install a GFCI outlet cover to prevent shocks.
• Consider using a conduit if running cables through walls or underground.

One user, Mark from Colorado, used a 50-foot Cat5e cable with a USB extender to run power from his basement to a camera on a second-story balcony. He used a junction box to protect the connections and buried part of the cable to avoid tripping hazards. It worked—but it took a weekend and some electrical know-how.

Option 3: Hardwiring with a Junction Box (Advanced)

For a permanent, professional look, hardwire directly into your home’s electrical system using a junction box. This requires:

• A licensed electrician (safety first!)
• Low-voltage wiring (12V or 24V DC)
• A weatherproof outdoor junction box
• A DC power converter (to step down from 120V AC to 5V DC)

This method is common in commercial setups but overkill for most homes. It’s expensive and complex, but it gives you full control over power delivery and cable management.

Challenges and Safety Tips for Hardwiring

Weatherproofing: Keep Water Out

Outdoor electronics and water don’t mix. Even a tiny drip can short-circuit your camera or create a fire hazard. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Use weatherproof cable glands at entry points.
• Seal all connections with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
• Install a drip loop—let the cable hang in a U-shape before entering the wall. This prevents water from running straight into the connection.
• Use outdoor-rated conduit for exposed cable runs.

I learned this the hard way when a spring storm flooded my front porch. The camera survived, but the adapter got soaked. Now I use a weatherproof outlet cover and a drip loop—no issues since.

Electrical Safety: Avoid Hazards

Never cut corners with electricity. Follow these rules:

• Only use GFCI outlets for outdoor power. They cut off power if they detect a fault.
• Don’t overload circuits. Check your home’s electrical panel to ensure the outlet isn’t on a shared circuit with high-draw appliances.
• Use UL-listed or ETL-certified adapters and cables.
• If you’re not 100% confident, hire an electrician. It’s worth the $100–$200 to avoid a fire or shock.

Wi-Fi Signal and Placement

Hardwiring doesn’t affect Wi-Fi, but cable routing can. Avoid running the power cable parallel to Wi-Fi cables or near metal objects (like gutters or AC units). This can cause interference. Also, make sure your camera is within range of your base station or Wi-Fi extender. If the signal is weak, consider a mesh Wi-Fi system or a Wi-Fi extender near the camera.

Cost Comparison: Hardwiring vs. Batteries

Let’s talk money. Is hardwiring worth the upfront cost?

Method	Initial Cost	Ongoing Cost (5 years)	Maintenance
Batteries (2 packs, replaced every 4 months)	$0 (if already owned)	$150–$200 (15 packs @ $10–$13 each)	High (frequent changes, disposal)
Arlo Official Power Kit	$50–$70	$0 (after initial purchase)	Low (check connections annually)
DIY Third-Party Cable	$30–$50	$0 (if no failures)	Medium (risk of cable/adapter failure)
Junction Box Hardwiring	$150–$300 (electrician + parts)	$0	Very low (permanent solution)

As you can see, hardwiring pays for itself in 2–3 years. Plus, you save time and hassle. No more climbing ladders to change batteries. No more missed alerts. Just continuous, reliable power.

Final Thoughts: Is Hardwiring Right for You?

So, can you hardwire Arlo camera to outlets for continuous power? Absolutely—and for many users, it’s the best decision they’ve made for home security. Whether you’re using Arlo’s official power kits or a DIY solution, the benefits are clear: no more battery anxiety, better camera performance, and long-term savings.

But it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. If you rent your home, hardwiring might not be allowed. If you have a camera in a hard-to-reach spot (like a tall tree), batteries might still be easier. And if you’re not comfortable with wiring, stick to the official kits or hire a pro.

My advice? Start small. Try hardwiring one camera—maybe your front door or backyard. Use Arlo’s official kit, follow the steps, and see how it goes. You’ll quickly realize that the initial effort is worth the peace of mind. And once you see that green power light glowing 24/7, you’ll never go back to batteries again.

At the end of the day, home security is about reliability. A camera that’s always on is a camera that’s always watching. And that’s something every homeowner can appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you hardwire Arlo cameras to outlets for continuous power?

Yes, you can hardwire most Arlo cameras (like Arlo Pro 3/4/5 and Ultra) to outlets using a compatible AC adapter or PoE (Power over Ethernet) kit. This eliminates battery changes and ensures uninterrupted operation, ideal for high-traffic areas.

What equipment do I need to hardwire an Arlo camera to an outlet?

You’ll need an Arlo-compatible AC power adapter (sold separately) or a PoE injector/switch for models that support it. For outdoor setups, use weatherproof enclosures and outdoor-rated cables to protect connections from the elements.

Is hardwiring Arlo cameras safe and code-compliant?

Hardwiring is safe if done correctly using Arlo-certified accessories and following local electrical codes. For permanent in-wall wiring, consider hiring a licensed electrician to avoid fire risks or violating regulations.

Can you hardwire Arlo cameras without drilling holes?

Yes! Use an outdoor-rated extension cord with a protective cover or a surface-mounted conduit to run wires neatly along walls. This avoids drilling while keeping the setup tidy and weather-resistant.

Will hardwiring affect my Arlo camera’s warranty?

No, as long as you use Arlo-branded power accessories or third-party gear that meets Arlo’s specifications. Avoid modifying the camera or using uncertified components, as this may void the warranty.

Does hardwiring improve Arlo camera performance?

Hardwiring provides continuous power, enabling features like 24/7 recording and faster motion alerts (no battery-saving mode). It also supports higher-resolution streaming compared to battery-operated modes.