In an increasingly interconnected world filled with traffic incidents, do I leave my dashcam on 24/7?

Dashcams have become increasingly popular tools for drivers seeking to enhance their road safety. As you consider your dashcam needs, you might wonder whether it’s feasible and practical to leave it running 24/7. In this guide, we’ll address the key aspects of continuous recording in your vehicle’s security system.

What Is a Dashcam?

A dash cam, or dashboard camera, is a small camera that mounts onto your vehicle to record the road ahead (and often the car’s interior). These devices serve many purposes, from documenting accidents to capturing scenic drives. With essential features like loop recording, G-sensors, and night vision, dashcams provide valuable peace of mind for people on the road.

The Benefits of Leaving a Dashcam On 24/7

Enhanced Evidence Collection

One of the primary reasons people choose to leave their dashcams on at all times is to collect evidence. In the event of an accident, footage can be invaluable when dealing with insurance claims or disputes. Continuous recording ensures that every moment is captured, helping to provide clarity in uncertain situations.

Parking Mode

Many modern dashcam models, have a parking mode feature. This means that your front and rear dash cam can monitor your vehicle even when parked. If someone bumps your car or tries to break in, the camera captures the incident, giving people peace of mind and essential evidence for insurance claims.

Deterrent Against Theft

Having a visible dashcam can deter potential thieves or vandals. Knowing their actions are being recorded may discourage people from tampering with your vehicle. This aspect of prevention can save you a lot of hassle and trouble in the long run.

Key Considerations Before Leaving Your Dashcam On 24/7

Battery Life

One primary concern for people considering leaving their dashcam 24/7 is the battery life. While some dashcams operate on internal batteries, lasting more than a few hours, most need to be plugged into the car’s power supply for continuous operation. Be sure to check the specs of your specific model to understand the power requirements.

Storage Capacity

Continuous recording means that your dashcam will use storage space quickly. Most dashcams, including those made by Vantrue, offer loop recording and automatically overwoverwriteoldest footage when the storage is full. However, if you are recording constantly, ensure sufficient storage capacity to avoid losing important footage.

Overheating Concerns

Some models overheat after long periods of recording. Look for dashcams designed to withstand prolonged use. Vantrue models often incorporate heat-resistant materials and intelligent design solutions to facilitate long-duration recording without damaging the device.

How to Set Up Your Dashcam for 24/7 Operation

Choosing the Right Dashcam

Selecting a dashcam with features suited for 24/7 operation is key. Vantrue devices are popular for their durability, impressive storage capabilities, and specialized features such as parking mode.

If you run your dashcam 24/7, connecting it directly to your vehicle’s power supply is vital. This is typically done through the car’s cigarette lighter or a hardwiring kit, which allows you to maintain power without draining your vehicle’s battery. Vantrue provides hardware kits enabling you to install your dashcam seamlessly for continuous operation, even when your car is off.

Record Settings

Adjust your dashcam’s settings to accommodate your needs. Many models come with options for resolution, motion detection, and sensitivity. Setting your camera to activate only when motion is detected during parking can save storage and prevent unnecessary overwriting of footage while on the road.

Best Practices for Using Your Dashcam 24/7

Format Your SD Card Regularly

To ensure smooth operation, periodically format your SD card. This helps clear outdated files and maintain storage efficiency. Vantrue dashcams often come with intuitive interfaces that make formatting simple.

Monitor and Review Footage

While continuous recording is reassuring, remember to check the footage regularly. It’s important to ensure everything functions correctly and that the camera captures quality recordings.

Backup Important Video Files

Suppose your dashcam records a notable incident, such as an accident or theft, back up those files immediately. While loop recording helps manage storage, you wouldn’t want to lose potentially vital evidence.