Infrared Thermal Imaging Inspections

 
How Infrared Thermal Imaging Works

Infrared Thermal Imaging services utilize thermography to measure surface temperatures by using special camera technology. A thermal image inspection in the home is quick, non-invasive and does not disturb existing structures, furnishings or personal property. This technique can be applied alone or more commonly as part of a comprehensive energy audit. It can identify various, previously undetected problems in many areas of a home or other building, old or new. These inspections can be performed inside or out, in any season, although for best results the outdoor and indoor temperature difference should be at least 18º.

Accessible portions of the building are evaluated, and infrared photos are taken of suspected problem areas that show temperature or moisture signature anomalies. These photos are later analyzed then incorporated into a report that explains the problems identified and recommends solutions.

Another major benefit of using thermal infrared imaging to diagnose potential problems is that specific locations can be focused upon for more invasive repairs as necessary, which limits the level of effort for such activities and can significantly reduce their costs.

In many cases the solutions can be inexpensive to implement, and may be done by the homeowner or a contractor of their choice. Therma-Check, LLC provides independent energy consulting services and does not perform repairs or make home improvements. Thus, our recommendations are unbiased and not skewed toward particular types of repairs or contractors.

Using Thermal Imaging for Energy Audits

A thermal imaging energy audit can be performed from outside or inside, and preferably both for best results. From the exterior, it can show areas where expensive heated or conditioned cool air is escaping. From the inside it similarly shows where warm or cold air is entering. Both steps pinpoint areas where improvements can be made. It is not uncommon for us to identify sections of walls or ceilings with inadequate or even no insulation. Previously undiscovered gaps and deteriorated weather-sealing are frequently found where significant energy losses are occurring. Finding and remedying these spots can save considerable money and reduce energy consumption.

Other major sources of energy loss we often find include insulation that has settled or shifted inside the wall, access plates for electrical outlets or phone jacks, and canister lights, smoke alarms or ceiling fans not properly insulated after installation. Thermal imaging can also identify leaks from heating and air conditioning ducts that are heating or cooling walls or the attic and wasting energy without the homeowner knowing it. Improperly sealed or settled windows and doors are other energy wasters.

If your home seems to be never warm or cool enough, and the system is running all the time, the problem may be due to numerous small leaks around windows and doors and other difficult to locate areas. Thermal imaging is an important part of a full energy audit that we perform for our customers, but we also employ a variety of other techniques to fully examine energy efficiency in a comprehensive energy audit. Thermal imaging is also valuable for verifying that repairs were correctly made (Re-Check Inspections).

See how infrared thermal imaging is used for Moisture Detection here.