Running power to your Arlo camera ensures uninterrupted surveillance and eliminates battery hassles. This guide walks you through simple wiring techniques, weatherproofing tips, and optimal power source placement for a seamless, reliable setup—whether you’re using solar panels, wired adapters, or PoE solutions.

How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Plan your route: Map power source to camera before drilling or wiring.
• Use outdoor-rated cables: Ensure durability with weatherproof extension cords or conduit.
• Secure connections: Waterproof all splices and plug points to prevent shorts.
• Check voltage requirements: Match adapter output to Arlo camera specifications.
• Conceal wiring: Use raceways or underground conduits for safety and aesthetics.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest—setting up your Arlo camera shouldn’t feel like solving a riddle wrapped in an electrical puzzle. But if you’re tired of constantly swapping out batteries or seeing that dreaded low-battery alert, you’re not alone.

Running power to your Arlo camera is one of the smartest moves you can make. It means reliable 24/7 coverage, fewer maintenance trips, and peace of mind. Whether you’re securing your front porch, garage, or backyard, having a steady power source transforms your Arlo from a temporary solution into a long-term security partner.

But how do you do it without frying a circuit or turning your yard into a tripping hazard? That’s exactly what this How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide will walk you through—step by step, no jargon, no fluff.

Think of it like this: I’ve been there. I’ve wrestled with extension cords, worried about weather damage, and even accidentally drilled through a sprinkler line (yes, really). Now I know the shortcuts, the safety tricks, and the tools that actually work. And I’m sharing them all with you.

This guide covers wired power for Arlo Ultra, Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Pro 5, and Arlo Essential models—basically, any Arlo camera that supports the Arlo Outdoor Power Adapter or a compatible Arlo Solar Panel.

So if you’re ready to say goodbye to battery anxiety and hello to uninterrupted surveillance, keep reading. This How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide has your back.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s get your toolkit ready. You don’t need to be an electrician, but you do need the right gear to do this safely and cleanly.

Here’s your checklist:

• Arlo Outdoor Power Adapter (officially called the Arlo Outdoor Power Cable) – Required for most models
• Arlo Solar Panel (optional, but great for off-grid spots)
• Weatherproof outdoor extension cord (UL-listed, rated for outdoor use)
• Outdoor-rated power outlet (GFCI-protected if near water or soil)
• Drill with masonry or wood bits (depending on your wall type)
• Cable clips or conduit clips (to secure and protect the cable)
• Silicone sealant or waterproof tape (for sealing entry points)
• Fish tape or coat hanger (for running cables through walls)
• Voltage tester (safety first—check outlets before plugging in)
• Measuring tape (to plan cable length)
• Marker or pencil (for marking drill spots)

Pro tip: If you’re running power more than 30 feet from an outlet, consider a heavy-duty 16-gauge extension cord to prevent voltage drop. Thin cords over long distances can cause your camera to flicker or shut down.

Also, double-check your Arlo model. Not all Arlo cameras support direct power. The Arlo Go (cellular) and some older models don’t use the standard adapter. But if you’ve got a Pro, Ultra, or Essential, you’re good to go.

Now that you’ve got your gear, let’s get into the real How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Run Power to Arlo Camera A Complete Guide

Step 1: Plan Your Power Route

This is where most people rush—and regret it later. Take 10 minutes to plan your cable path. You want it to be as short, safe, and hidden as possible.

Start by identifying:

• Where your camera will be mounted
• The nearest outdoor outlet (ideally GFCI-protected)
• The path the power cable will take (along the wall, through a soffit, into the garage, etc.)

Ask yourself: Can I run the cable along the eaves? Can it go through a small hole in the siding? Or do I need to go underground?

For example, I once tried to run a cable from my back porch outlet to my garage-mounted camera. I thought, “Just drape it across the lawn.” Big mistake. The cable got chewed by the lawnmower. Twice.

So now I always plan for concealment. If your path crosses a walkway, use conduit or bury it (we’ll cover that in Step 4).

Measure the distance with your tape. Add 3–5 extra feet for slack—you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to plug in or adjust the camera.

This planning phase is the backbone of your How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide—don’t skip it.

Step 2: Install or Confirm Your Outdoor Outlet

Your power source needs to be safe and weatherproof. If you already have an outdoor outlet, great! But make sure it’s:

• GFCI-protected (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) – shuts off power if water or a fault is detected
• Weather-resistant (WR) or in-use cover – keeps rain out when the plug is in
• Functioning – test it with your voltage tester

If you don’t have an outdoor outlet, or it’s not GFCI, stop here.

Adding or upgrading an outlet requires electrical work. If you’re not 100% confident in your skills, call a licensed electrician. It’s not worth the risk of shock or fire.

When I installed my first outdoor outlet, I thought I could DIY it. I wired it backwards, tripped the breaker, and had to call an electrician anyway. Lesson learned: Safety over savings.

Once your outlet is confirmed, plug in your extension cord and run it close to your planned path. This helps you visualize the cable run before drilling.

Step 3: Mount the Arlo Outdoor Power Adapter

Now comes the fun part: connecting your Arlo to power.

The Arlo Outdoor Power Adapter is a small, weather-resistant box with a USB-C or barrel plug (depending on your model) that connects to your camera. It’s designed to live outdoors, but you still want to protect it.

Here’s how to install it:

1. Attach the adapter to the back of your Arlo camera using the included mounting bracket.
2. Secure it with the screws provided—don’t overtighten, or you’ll crack the housing.
3. Route the adapter’s cable down the wall toward your power source.

Tip: Position the adapter so it’s slightly lower than the camera. This helps water run off instead of pooling around the connection.

Once mounted, do not plug it in yet. We’ll test it later.

If you’re using the Arlo Solar Panel instead, attach it to the same bracket. The solar panel has its own power cable that connects to the adapter. More on that in the Pro Tips section.

This step is a key part of the How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide—make sure the adapter is secure and angled correctly.

Step 4: Run the Power Cable Safely

Now we get to the cable routing—the make-or-break moment.

There are three main ways to run the cable:

Option A: Along the Exterior Wall (Easiest)

• Use weatherproof cable clips every 12–18 inches.
• Run the cable along the eaves, soffit, or siding—avoid direct ground contact.
• Use conduit (flexible PVC or metal) if the cable is exposed to foot traffic or lawnmowers.

Option B: Through a Wall or Soffit (Cleaner Look)

• Drill a 1/2-inch hole from outside, angled slightly downward to prevent water pooling.
• Use a fish tape or straightened coat hanger to pull the cable inside.
• Seal the hole with silicone sealant or waterproof caulk on the outside.
• Inside, connect to an extension cord or plug into an indoor outlet (if safe and permitted).

Warning: Don’t run power through interior walls unless you’re routing to an indoor outlet. Never splice the cable or use indoor-rated cords outdoors.

Option C: Buried Underground (For Long Runs)

• Use direct burial-rated extension cord (look for “DB” or “UF” on the jacket).
• Bury it at least 18 inches deep—deeper if in a frost zone.
• Use PVC conduit for extra protection, especially near driveways.
• Mark the location with a garden stake or flag—so you don’t dig it up later.

I buried my first cable without conduit. A year later, I hit it with a shovel while planting flowers. Oops.

Whatever route you choose, keep the cable taut but not stretched. Loops can catch wind or animals.

This is where your How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide really shines—safe, long-term cabling.

Step 5: Connect and Test the System

Now for the moment of truth.

With your cable run complete:

1. Unplug your extension cord.
2. Connect the Arlo Outdoor Power Adapter to the cable.
3. Plug the extension cord into the GFCI outlet.
4. Wait 30–60 seconds. Your Arlo should power on and connect to Wi-Fi.

Check the Arlo app. You should see:

• Full battery icon (even though it’s powered)
• Stable Wi-Fi connection
• Live stream working

If the camera doesn’t turn on:

• Test the outlet with a lamp or phone charger.
• Check the adapter connection—make sure it’s fully seated.
• Inspect the cable for cuts or kinks.

One time, my camera wouldn’t power on. I spent 20 minutes troubleshooting—only to realize I’d plugged the extension cord into an indoor outlet that was switched off. D’oh.

Also, if your GFCI trips, reset it. If it trips again, unplug and check for moisture in the connections.

Once it’s working, leave it on for 24 hours to confirm stability. This step is crucial in your How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide.

Step 6: Secure and Weatherproof All Connections

You’re almost done—but don’t skip this step. A loose connection or exposed wire is an invitation for trouble.

Here’s what to do:

• Seal the wall entry point with silicone or waterproof tape.
• Wrap the adapter-to-camera connection with self-fusing silicone tape (like Rescue Tape) for extra protection.
• Secure all cable joints with cable clips or conduit.
• Elevate the plug end—don’t let it sit in a puddle. Use a small hook or zip tie to keep it off the ground.

I use a plastic outlet cover box (like a “jelly jar” cover) over my outdoor plug. It keeps rain out and looks tidy.

For solar panel users: Tilt the panel 30–45 degrees toward the sun, facing south (in the Northern Hemisphere). Clean it monthly with water and a soft cloth.

This final touch ensures your setup lasts for years—not just months.

Step 7: Final Check and App Configuration

Now that everything’s powered, let’s fine-tune your Arlo.

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Go to Settings > Camera > Power Source.
3. Select “Wired” or “Solar” (if using a panel).
4. Adjust motion sensitivity and recording length—now that you’re not limited by battery.

Bonus: With constant power, you can enable 24/7 continuous recording (if you have an Arlo SmartHub or compatible plan).

I love this feature for my front porch. I see every package delivery, visitor, and even the neighbor’s cat who keeps stealing my mail.

Also, check your Wi-Fi signal strength. If it’s weak, consider an Arlo SmartHub or a Wi-Fi extender near the camera.

And that’s it! You’ve completed the How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After helping dozens of friends (and fixing my own mistakes), here are the real-world insights you won’t find in the manual.

Pro Tip 1: Use a “Y” Splitter for Dual Cameras
If you’re powering two Arlo cameras near the same outlet, use a weatherproof Y-splitter. Just make sure your extension cord can handle the load (check wattage ratings).

Pro Tip 2: Label Your Cables
I use colored zip ties: blue for front, red for back. Saves time when troubleshooting. A simple label on the plug end works too.

Pro Tip 3: Test Before You Seal
Always test the system before sealing holes or burying cables. I once sealed a hole only to find the adapter was defective. Took me an hour to reopen it.

Warning: Don’t Use Indoor Extension Cords Outdoors
They’re not rated for UV, moisture, or temperature changes. They’ll crack, short, or become fire hazards. Always use outdoor-rated cords.

Common Mistake: Over-Tightening Cable Clips
Crushing the cable with clips can damage the insulation. Use soft rubber-lined clips or leave a slight gap.

Common Mistake: Ignoring GFCI Testing
Test your GFCI outlet monthly by pressing the “Test” button. If it doesn’t trip, it’s not working—and that’s a safety risk.

Pro Insight: Solar Panel Angle Matters
In winter, increase the tilt angle to capture low-angle sunlight. In summer, flatten it slightly. A 10-degree change can boost efficiency by 20%.

These tips come from real experience—not a manual. Use them to avoid the headaches I’ve had. Your How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide just got smarter.

FAQs About How to Run Power to Arlo Camera A Complete Guide

Can I run power to my Arlo camera without an outdoor outlet?

Technically, yes—but it’s not safe or legal. You’d need to run a new circuit from your breaker panel, which requires permits and an electrician. For most homes, adding a GFCI outlet is the best option. If you’re off-grid, a solar panel is your best bet.

Will running power void my Arlo warranty?

No, using the official Arlo Outdoor Power Adapter or Solar Panel won’t void your warranty. In fact, Arlo recommends these accessories. Just avoid splicing or modifying the cables yourself.

How long can I run the power cable?

The Arlo adapter works up to 100 feet with a standard 16-gauge outdoor extension cord. Beyond that, you risk voltage drop. For longer runs, use a heavier 14-gauge cord or consider a solar setup.

Is the Arlo Solar Panel worth it?

Absolutely—if you have good sun exposure. I use it for my back gate camera, which is 50 feet from any outlet. It’s saved me from running cable through my garden. Just keep it clean and angled properly.

What if my GFCI keeps tripping?

First, unplug everything and reset the GFCI. If it trips again, there’s a fault. Check for water in the outlet, damaged cable insulation, or a short in the adapter. Moisture is the #1 culprit—dry everything thoroughly.

Can I use a power bank or inverter for Arlo?

Not recommended. Power banks drain fast, and inverters are overkill for a 5V camera. Stick with the official adapter or solar panel for reliability.

How often should I check my powered Arlo?

I check mine every 3 months: clean the lens, inspect cables, test the GFCI, and verify the app connection. A quick 10-minute routine keeps it running smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Running power to your Arlo camera isn’t just about convenience—it’s about reliability, safety, and peace of mind.

No more battery swaps. No more missed alerts. Just consistent, 24/7 surveillance that actually works when you need it.

You don’t need to be an electrician to do this. With the right tools, a little planning, and this How to Run Power to Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide, you can set up a professional-grade system in a single afternoon.

Just remember: plan your route, use the right gear, test before you seal, and respect the GFCI. These small details make all the difference.

And if you’re ever unsure? Call a pro. There’s no shame in safety.

Now go ahead—mount that camera, run that cable, and enjoy the freedom of constant power. Your Arlo will thank you. And so will you, every time you check your app and see that solid, uninterrupted feed.

You’ve got this.