Why Every Home Should Have a Door Viewer Installed
In home security, not all security enhancements have to be complex and costly. As a matter of fact, a mere installation of a door viewer or the deurspion (as it's commonly called in the Netherlands) could make a world of difference. This tiny device enables you to know who is outside before opening the door, whether you have your own house, you are renting, or staying at your relative’s home.
This article will unpack the real functions of a door viewer and just how much it can enhance your everyday security by considering such alternatives as a Digital Door peephole or a door spy camera with recording.
What is a Door Viewer or Deurspion?
A door viewer is a little thing attached to the front door which allows one to see outside without opening the door. The conventional one is an ordinary lens — it is usually referred to as a peephole door viewer — it offers you a wide range perspective of the person on the opposite side of the door.
In appartementen (apartments) in most Dutch houses, a deurspion is an ordinary and proper security device. Whether you reside in a vrijstaand huis (semi-detached house) or apartment in the city, a peephole viewer provides added everyday protection.
Today, door viewers have evolved. You have the possibility now to install a door peephole with a camera, a Digital Door peephole, or even a Wi-Fi door spy camera. These new gadgets allow you to see the visitors using a screen or through a mobile app, use footage recordings, and get motion alerts without needing to open the door.
Why Your Home Needs One
Know Who’s Knocking
Some of the notable benefits of a front door peephole include the fact that you can quickly settle on who is outside the door without necessarily uttering a single word. This can really come in handy, especially when you are delivering goods; it’s also useful when you have unannounced visitors, or when you do not feel like talking. It gives you complete control of your interaction.
In Dutch neighborhoods, where door-to-door sales or unannounced guests are common, being able to screen visitors is especially useful.
Minimizes Possible Intrusion and Forced Entry
Thieves usually begin by knocking on the door or ringing the bell. Housebreakers are able to sound as a person to interpret you to open the door. With a door spy camera, you can judge the situation and even capture suspicious behavior. It also assists you in acting before things get out of hand.
With increasing focus on veilig wonen (safe living) in the Netherlands, more residents are turning to smart door viewers as a simple yet powerful deterrent.
Safe for Families
For families with kids or elderly people at home, a door viewer with a camera adds another layer of protection. Children can quickly identify familiar faces. Elderly residents don’t have to rush to the door blindly. It’s a simple tool that builds everyday confidence.
How to Install a Door Viewer on Different Door Types
Installing a peephole door viewer isn't overly technical, but you need to get it right based on the door material.
Wooden Doors
These are the easiest. Most standard door viewers come with installation instructions. The only thing you should possess is a drill with the appropriate size (usually 12 mm) and a tape measure. Select a height that will be suitable for all at home.
For those living in older Dutch herenhuizen or traditional townhouses, wooden doors are still common and ideal for quick peephole installs.
Metal Doors
With metal, installation is similar, but you’ll need a drill bit suited for steel. If you have metal or fire-rated doors, you might prefer a Fire-resistant door viewer. These are specially constructed to be a fire-resistant door viewer and help keep their structure when emergencies strike.
The majority of contemporary Dutch houses employ stalen veiligheidsdeuren (steel security doors), so it is essential to select appropriate peepholes.
uPVC Doors
These can be tricky due to their hollow structure. Look for a door peephole with a camera that’s compatible with uPVC, and make sure you have any adapters required. Many newer models are designed with uPVC doors in mind.
Digital Doorbells vs. Peephole Viewers
Digital doorbells and peepholes, however, are slightly different in their purposes because they provide visibility of the front door.
A Digital Door peephole is generally easier to put in place, does not necessarily require wiring, and has a few basic functions, such as live view or internal screen. Some versions of the best digital door peephole also include motion sensors and short video clips.
In the Netherlands, Wi-Fi coverage is generally reliable, but some prefer local-only devices for privacy reasons.
On the other hand, a doorbell camera, though powerful, relies on Wi-Fi and often needs electrical wiring. It’s also more expensive and can be overkill for someone who just wants to see who’s outside.
If your priority is quick, easy installation and local recording, a door spy camera with recording is often a smarter choice.
Types of Door Viewers to Consider
It comes in various forms, and they all fit multiple needs:
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Standard door viewers: Affordable and solid, an appropriate choice in temporary residence or not-so-large houses.
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Fire-resistant door viewer: Ideal for apartment buildings with brandveiligheidsregels (fire safety regulations).
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Door spy camera: A simple digital upgrade that shows you a clear image without opening the door.
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Wi-Fi door spy camera: Allows you to see the people at your door, using your phone, even when you are not home.
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Door peephole camera: It records the footage internally, which can be beneficial in the case of package thefts or whenever there are things to do with the door.
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Best wireless Wi-Fi door peephole: Allows simultaneous receiving of motions, video recordings, and live streaming using the same intelligent device.
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Door viewer with camera: A good option for those who want a discreet camera integrated into the door viewer.
What to Look For When Buying One
Before picking a model, ask yourself these questions:
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What is the thickness of your door? (Not all viewers fit all doors).
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Do you want recording or just a live view?
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Is your door wood, metal, or uPVC?
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Do you desire local-only and want it to be internet-based?
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Do you need something fire-rated for apartment safety?
Answering these will help narrow your choices, especially when choosing between a Standard door viewer and a door spy camera with recording facilities.
Make Your Front Door Smarter and Safer
To explore different types of doors viewers, including suitable models for Dutch houses, you can check reliable suppliers like Combipower.Our wide selection of door spy cameras, peephole door viewers, and Digital Door peephole systems offer durable, stylish, and fire-rated solutions for every door type.
Combipower proudly offers viewer solutions that align with Dutch building standards and resident needs.
From a standard door viewer with camera to smart door spy camera with recording models, each solution gives you a peace of mind. If you’re ready to upgrade your door security with a product that fits both your style and your safety needs, you’ll find the right solution here.
Updating your front door with a viewer can be a small change with great security benefits - consider analyzing available options that meet your home and needs.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between an eye door viewer and a door spy camera?
A peephole door viewer is a basic lens. A door spy camera shows who’s outside on a screen or phone, and may record video or send alerts.
2. Is a Digital Door peephole better than a smart doorbell?
A Digital Door peephole is easier to install and doesn’t always need Wi-Fi. For those wanting tech without the fuss, the best digital door peephole is often the smarter pick.
3. Can I use a door peephole with camera in an apartment?
Yes. A door peephole with camera is ideal for apartments, no wiring, easy setup, and more security without needing to open the door.
4. Do I need the internet for a Wi-Fi door spy camera?
Yes. A Wi-Fi door spy camera needs Wi-Fi to stream video. If you want offline use, go for a door spy camera with recording that saves footage locally.
5. Are fire-resistant door viewers necessary in Dutch homes?
In flats or buildings with fire codes, a Fire-resistant door viewer is a safe choice. It stays functional even in high heat.
6. Can I install a Door viewer with a camera on uPVC or metal doors?
Yes. Just choose a Door viewer with a camera designed for uPVC or metal. Some models come with the right fittings for those materials.
7. Are deurspionnen legal to install in rented Dutch apartments?
Yes, but it’s best to consult your rental agreement or woningcorporatie. Most landlords allow non-invasive peephole installation if it doesn’t damage the door.
