When your camera caught something at your home, what do you do—especially if you’re hundreds or even thousands of miles away? For Coachella Valley residents and seasonal homeowners, this is a growing concern. Smart cameras offer peace of mind, but when they alert you to something suspicious, a quick, informed response is critical.
As a leading authority in home watch services, Coachella Valley Home Watch has seen this scenario play out countless times. Here’s what you need to know when your camera catches something—and what steps to take to protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind.
Why Relying on Cameras Alone Isn’t Enough
Smart cameras are a valuable tool, but they’re not a comprehensive solution. Here’s why:
Delayed response times: You may not see an alert until hours later, especially if you’re traveling internationally or in a different time zone.
Limited context: Cameras only capture what’s in their view. That odd shadow? It could be a tree limb, or someone casing your property.
False alarms: Motion alerts can be triggered by wind, wildlife, or passing cars. Without verification, it’s easy to ignore real threats.
As Louis Moreto, co-founder of Coachella Valley Home Watch, explains:
“A camera can show you that something happened—but it can’t tell you what happened or why. That’s where we come in.”
Step-by-Step: What to Do When Your Camera Caught Something at Your Home
1. Review the Footage Immediately
Start by watching the video. Look for:
Time and date stamps
Unusual activity or people
Vehicle makes, models, or license plates
Repeat appearances over multiple days
This gives you the information you’ll need to assess the urgency of the situation.
2. Determine the Threat Level
Ask yourself:
Is someone on my property?
Is anything damaged or disturbed?
Is this a one-time incident or a pattern?
If you suspect a real threat, don’t wait—take the next steps.
3. Contact a Local Home Watch Professional
If you’re not nearby when your camera caught something, contacting a professional is critical. Coachella Valley Home Watch offers same-day response visits to check your property and report back with:
Photos and videos from the scene
Exterior and interior inspection (if authorized)
Immediate recommendations or assistance (e.g., contacting police, securing doors/windows)
This in-person response provides the crucial context your camera can’t.
Real-World Example: Catching the Clue Before the Crime
One seasonal homeowner in Palm Desert received a late-night alert showing her camera caught something near the side gate. She contacted Coachella Valley Home Watch, which visited the property. They discovered signs of attempted tampering on the gate lock and notified the sheriff’s department. Increased patrols were scheduled, and no further incidents occurred.
Without boots on the ground, that situation could’ve escalated—or gone unnoticed entirely.
Proactive Protection: What You Can Do When Your Camera Caught Something
Don’t wait for an incident to occur. Here are steps you can take today:
✅ Hire a Home Watch Service
Regular home checks can prevent small problems from becoming disasters. Services include:
Visual inspections of the interior and exterior
HVAC and plumbing checks
Pest, mold, and leak detection
Storm prep and post-storm assessment
✅ Customize Your Camera Notifications
Set specific zones and schedules
Disable alerts during known maintenance times
Link alerts to cloud storage for later review
✅ Create an Emergency Plan
Share emergency contacts with your home watch provider
Provide gate codes and key access in a secure way
Outline action steps for common issues (break-ins, leaks, power outages)
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my camera caught something at my vacation home?
Immediately review the footage and call your local home watch professional or the local police department. Do not attempt to handle it remotely without verification.
Can a home watch service work with my smart home system?
Yes. Coachella Valley Home Watch coordinates with your existing security systems, apps, and vendors to offer fully integrated oversight and response.
Is it worth having both cameras and a home watch service?
Absolutely. Cameras provide alerts; home watch professionals provide action. Together, they create a complete protection system.
Why Coachella Valley Residents Trust Us
At Coachella Valley Home Watch, we are proud to be an accredited member of the National Home Watch Association (NHWA). This accreditation signifies that we have passed a stringent vetting process, maintain proper insurance and bonding, and adhere to the highest ethical standards in the Home Watch industry. Our team has also completed the NHWA’s Home Watch Boot Camp, ensuring we are well-equipped to identify and address potential issues in your absence. With our professional oversight, you can have peace of mind knowing your Coachella Valley home is in trusted hands.
We don’t just check on your home—we care for it as if it were our own.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Watch—Act
Smart cameras are a smart choice. But when something concerning appears on screen, remote monitoring alone won’t cut it. You need eyes on the ground, expert judgment, and a rapid response plan.
That’s what Coachella Valley Home Watch provides—trusted, professional oversight when you can’t be there yourself.
Ready to turn passive monitoring into proactive protection? Contact Coachella Valley Home Watch today to schedule your free consultation. Whether you’re gone for a few weeks or a full season, we’ll make sure your home is safe, secure, and just the way you left it. 760-205-2072
The scorching summer temperatures in Coachella Valley are no joke, often climbing well above 100 degrees. As a snowbird, you may be wondering how to manage your home’s air conditioning while you’re away for the season. Setting your AC too high or turning it off completely could result in costly damage to your property. So, what’s the ideal temperature to protect your home while saving energy?
Why You Shouldn’t Turn Your AC Off Completely
It might seem tempting to turn off your air conditioning to save on energy bills while you’re away. However, doing so can lead to significant problems:
Excessive Heat and Humidity: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can damage furniture, electronics, and other belongings.
Mold Growth: Without proper cooling, humidity levels can rise, increasing the risk of mold and mildew. You might be asking, is mold and mildew really a threat in the desert? The answer is – Yes, mold and mildew can still develop in the Coachella Valley, even though it’s known for its dry climate. Here’s why:
Humidity from Unusual Weather Events: While the desert is typically dry, occasional monsoons or unexpected humidity spikes can create the perfect conditions for mold growth, especially in a sealed, unventilated home.
Internal Moisture Sources: Activities like plumbing leaks, residual moisture in bathrooms or kitchens, or even water in pipes can contribute to elevated humidity inside the home.
Trapped Heat: Without AC running, the heat inside a home can cause any existing moisture to evaporate and linger as humidity, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Sealed Homes: Modern homes are tightly sealed for energy efficiency, which traps heat and moisture. Without airflow or cooling, the stagnant environment encourages mold growth.
While Coachella Valley’s outdoor humidity is generally low, the combination of sealed interiors, occasional moisture, and extreme heat can still create localized conditions that foster mold. Setting your AC to 85°F helps maintain airflow and control indoor humidity, reducing the risk.
Strain on Your AC: If your system is turned off and then restarted, it has to work much harder to cool down the house.
Leaving your AC running at a reasonable temperature ensures your home stays protected while minimizing energy costs.
The Ideal Temperature for Your AC
The optimal temperature for your AC when you’re away is 85°F. This temperature strikes the perfect balance between preventing heat-related damage and keeping energy bills manageable. Here’s why:
Prevents Heat Damage: Keeping your home at 85°F avoids the extreme heat that can warp floors, damage electronics, and crack drywall.
Controls Humidity: An AC running at 85°F keeps humidity in check, reducing the risk of mold growth.
Energy Savings: Running your AC at this temperature significantly lowers energy usage compared to cooling a home to 72°F.
Use a Smart Thermostat for Better Control
Consider installing a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely. With a smart thermostat, you can:
Receive alerts if the temperature in your home goes outside a set range.
Adjust settings if unexpected heatwaves occur.
Ensure the AC runs efficiently throughout the summer.
Additional Tips for Leaving Your Home in the Summer
Beyond setting your AC, here are a few additional steps to protect your home:
Close Blinds and Curtains: Reduce the heat entering your home by blocking sunlight.
Seal Doors and Windows: Check for any air leaks that could let in heat.
Schedule Regular Checks: Enlist a trusted service, like Coachella Valley Home Watch, to monitor your home while you’re gone.
How Coachella Valley Home Watch Can Help
Leaving your home unoccupied for months can be nerve-wracking, but Coachella Valley Home Watch provides the peace of mind you need. Our professional team will:
Regularly inspect your home for any issues.
Monitor your air conditioning system and other appliances.
Ensure your home remains safe, secure, and well-maintained.
By partnering with Coachella Valley Home Watch, you can enjoy your summer getaway without worrying about your property back in the desert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is 85°F the recommended temperature when I’m away? A: 85°F keeps your home protected from excessive heat and humidity while reducing energy costs.
Q: Can I turn off my AC to save money? A: Turning off your AC completely can lead to heat damage, mold, and other costly issues. It’s better to set it to 85°F.
Q: What does Coachella Valley Home Watch do? A: Coachella Valley Home Watch provides regular home checks, ensuring your property stays secure and in good condition while you’re away.
Keep Your Home Cool and Protected
Don’t leave your home to chance this summer. Set your AC to 85°F, invest in a smart thermostat, and partner with Coachella Valley Home Watch for professional monitoring. Contact us today to learn how we can keep your home safe while you enjoy your time away!
